Pizza is one of the most popular comfort foods in the world. While there are endless variations of this dish, many people enjoy pizza because it’s affordable, customizable, and convenient. But when making the healthiest pizza possible, what are the best toppings to choose? Here are some tips on creating a healthiest pizza toppings and delicious pizza.
What Are The Healthiest Pizza Toppings?
Many people love pizza but are hesitant to eat it because they think it’s unhealthy. However, there are a lot of healthy pizza toppings that you can choose from! Here are some of the most healthy pizza toppings:
1. Veggies
Veggies are always a great option for eating healthy. They’re low in calories and fat and packed with nutrients. Some of the best veggies for pizza include mushrooms, onions, peppers, and tomatoes.
2. Lean Meat
Lean meat is an excellent option if you’re looking for a protein-packed topping. Turkey and chicken are both lean meats that are perfect for pizza. Just make sure that the meat is cooked all the way through before you add it to your pizza.
3. Cheese
Cheese is another great option for a healthy pizza topping. Just like with meat, you want to ensure that the cheese is fully cooked before adding it to your pizza. Opt for low-fat cheese to keep things healthy.
4. Herbs
Herbs are a great way to flavor your pizza without adding many calories or fat. Some of the best herbs for pizza include basil, oregano, and thyme.
5. Sauce
The sauce is another important component of a healthy pizza. Look for sauces made with healthy ingredients, such as tomatoes and olive oil. Avoid sauces that are high in sugar or fat.
6. Broccoli
This cruciferous veggie contains fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate. It’s also a good source of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
7. Garlic
This flavorful ingredient is rich in antioxidants and linked to numerous health benefits, including lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and improved immunity.
8. Spinach
This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, and several minerals. It’s also low in calories and fat.
9. Mushrooms
These fungi are a good source of several nutrients, including selenium, potassium, copper, and vitamin D. They’re also low in calories and fat-free.
10. Tomatoes
These red fruits are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease. They’re also a good source of vitamins C and K.
11. Diced Chicken
Chicken is a lean source of protein low in calories and fat. It’s also a good source of niacin, selenium, and vitamin B6.
12. Pineapple
This tropical fruit is an excellent vitamin C, manganese, and fiber source. It’s also a good source of copper and thiamin.
13. Red Onion
This pungent vegetable is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and chromium. It’s also low in calories and fat-free.
14. Green Peppers
These bell peppers are a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, fiber, and folic acid.
15. Artichoke Hearts
These edible thistle buds are a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, magnesium, and potassium.
What Pizza Toppings Are High Protein?
There are many possibilities: go traditional with pepperoni or sausage, or get creative with chicken, bacon, or even fruits and vegetables. But if you’re looking for a high protein option, these are the toppings you should consider:
1. Chicken
A lean protein option, chicken, is a great way to add extra protein to your pizza. Just be sure not to overcook it!
2. Bacon
Another high-protein meat topping, bacon adds a nice smoky flavor to your pizza. Just be sure to cook it until it’s crisp.
3. Sausage
Sausage is another classic pizza topping high in protein. Just be sure to choose a leaner sausage, such as turkey or chicken sausage, to keep the fat content down.
4. Ham
A great alternative to sausage, ham is also high in protein and can add a nice salty flavor to your pizza.
5. Shrimp
A seafood option, shrimp, is a great way to add extra protein and flavor to your pizza. Just be sure not to overcook them!
Can Homemade Pizza Be Healthy?
With a few tweaks to the classic recipe, it is possible to create a delicious and healthy pizza that the whole family will love.
For starters, ditch the refined white flour crust in favor of a whole wheat option. This change alone will increase the fiber and nutrient content of your pizza. Next, lean protein like grilled chicken or turkey sausage instead of pepperoni or sausage. And load up on fresh veggies like mushrooms, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Not only are these toppings nutritious, but they will also add fantastic flavor to your pizza.
Finally, don’t skimp on the cheese! A small amount of high-quality cheese will make your pizza taste great and provide calcium and other essential nutrients. So go ahead and enjoy a slice (or two!) of homemade pizza, knowing it can be part of a healthy diet.
Can Pizza Be A Part Of A Healthy Diet?
Yes, it can! Pizza can be a healthier choice if you make it at home with the right ingredients. For one, you can control the quality and freshness of your ingredients. That means no questionable preservatives or additives in your pizza.
Secondly, you can choose healthier toppings when you make pizza at home. Load up on veggies, use lean meats, and go easy on the cheese. Third, making pizza at home allows you to use whole wheat flour for the crust. This type of flour is higher in fiber and nutrient content than traditional white flour.
What Is The Unhealthiest Part Of Pizza?
Most of the unhealthy things about pizza are pretty obvious. The dough is full of refined carbs, and the cheese is loaded with saturated fat. The sauce can be high in sugar, and the toppings are often processed meats high in sodium.
But one part of pizza is particularly unhealthy, and it might not be what you think.
The crust is where most of the unhealthy things about pizza hide. It’s made of white flour stripped of its nutrients and often loaded with salt and oil. Saturated fat, refined carbs, and salt contribute to weight gain, heart disease, and diabetes.
Final Words
These are some of the healthiest pizza toppings that you can choose from. But, of course, you can always mix and match these ingredients to create your own unique and healthy pizza. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and enjoy your pizza guilt-free!
