Who says pizzas can't be healthy? When it comes to satisfying your cravings, pizzas are undoubtedly a top contender. But, with all the cheese and processed meats, it's easy to feel guilty about indulging in this beloved comfort food. Lucky for us, there's a way to enjoy pizza without compromising our health goals - by adding veggies! Not only are they a great source of essential nutrients, but they also add a burst of flavor and texture that takes your pizza game to a whole new level. In this article, we'll be exploring the top 5 veggies pizza toppings that are not only healthy but also delicious.
From the classic tomato and basil to the more adventurous kale and eggplant, we've got you covered. So, grab a slice and get ready to satisfy your cravings guilt-free!
The benefits of incorporating veggies into your pizza toppings
Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most popular comfort foods worldwide. However, it's no secret that most pizzas are loaded with cheese, processed meats, and unhealthy fats, making them a guilty pleasure. Fortunately, there's a way to enjoy pizza without feeling guilty, and that's by adding veggies! Not only do veggies add a burst of flavor and texture to your pizza, but they're also a great source of essential nutrients that your body needs.
One of the biggest benefits of adding veggies to your pizza is that it increases the fiber content of your meal. Fiber is essential for maintaining digestive health and helps keep you feeling fuller for longer, reducing the urge to overeat. Additionally, veggies are low in calories, making them a perfect addition to your pizza if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Another benefit of incorporating veggies into your pizza toppings is that they're a great source of vitamins and minerals. Different veggies have different nutrient profiles, so by adding a variety of veggies to your pizza, you can ensure that you're getting a balanced mix of essential nutrients. Plus, veggies are loaded with antioxidants that help protect your cells against damage from free radicals.
Overall, adding veggies to your pizza is a simple and effective way to make your meal healthier and more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
Here are the top 5 veggies for pizza toppings that are not only healthy but also delicious:
Spinach - This leafy green is a great addition to pizza as it's mild in flavor and has a soft texture. It's also loaded with nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Plus, it pairs well with other toppings such as feta cheese and garlic.
Mushrooms - Mushrooms are a common pizza topping and for a good reason. They add a meaty texture and a savory umami flavor to the pizza. Additionally, mushrooms are low in calories and are a good source of potassium and B vitamins.
Bell Peppers - Bell peppers add a pop of color and a sweet flavor to your pizza. They're also a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system. Bell peppers come in different colors, so you can choose the ones that best complement the other toppings on your pizza.
Tomatoes - Tomatoes are a classic pizza topping that adds a tangy flavor and a juicy texture to your pizza. They're also a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells against damage from free radicals.
Red Onions - Red onions add a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to your pizza. They're also a good source of fiber and contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
Combining veggies with other toppings for a delicious pizza
Now that you know the top 5 veggies for pizza toppings, it's time to get creative with your combinations. One great way to make your veggie pizza more delicious is by combining veggies with other toppings. For example, you can pair spinach with feta cheese and olives for a Greek-inspired pizza. Or, you can combine mushrooms with sausage and onions for a hearty pizza.
Another great way to add flavor to your veggie pizza is by using herbs and spices. For example, you can sprinkle some oregano and basil on your tomato and bell pepper pizza for a classic Italian flavor. Or, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to your spinach and mushroom pizza for a spicy kick.
Remember, the key to making a delicious veggie pizza is to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you.
Healthier pizza crust options to complement your veggies toppings
When it comes to pizza, the crust is just as important as the toppings. Fortunately, there are many healthier pizza crust options that you can choose from to complement your veggie toppings. Here are some of the best options:
Whole Wheat - Whole wheat crust is a great option as it's higher in fiber and nutrients than traditional white crust. It's also a good option for people who are trying to lose weight or manage their blood sugar levels.
Cauliflower - Cauliflower crust is a popular option for people who are looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional crust. It's also gluten-free, making it a good option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Gluten-free - If you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, there are many gluten-free crust options available. These crusts are made with alternative flours such as rice flour or almond flour.
Thin Crust - Thin crust pizza is a good option if you're trying to watch your calorie intake. It's also a good option if you prefer a crunchier crust.
Pairing veggie pizza toppings with different cheese and sauce options
Finally, let's talk about cheese and sauce options for your veggie pizza. Cheese and sauce can make or break your pizza, so it's important to choose the right options to complement your veggie toppings.
When it comes to cheese, mozzarella is the most common option for pizza. However, there are many other cheese options that work well with veggie pizzas. For example, feta cheese pairs well with spinach and olives, while goat cheese pairs well with mushrooms and arugula.
As for sauce, tomato sauce is the classic option for pizza. However, there are many other sauce options that you can try. For example, pesto sauce is a great option for a spinach and mushroom pizza, while BBQ sauce works well with bell peppers and onions.
Conclusion and final thoughts
In conclusion, adding veggies to your pizza toppings is a great way to make your meal healthier and more nutritious without sacrificing flavor. The top 5 veggies for pizza toppings are spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, tomatoes, and red onions, and they can be combined with other toppings and herbs and spices to create delicious pizza combinations.
When it comes to crust options, there are many healthier options available, such as whole wheat and cauliflower crust. And, when it comes to cheese and sauce options, there are many different options available to complement your veggie toppings.
Overall, by adding veggies to your pizza, you can enjoy this comfort food guilt-free while still satisfying your cravings. So, next time you're craving pizza, consider adding some veggies to take your pizza game to a whole new level!
==========
Pizzaville is a local mom and pop pizzeria located at the corner of Goose Creek Road and Westport Road in Louisville, Kentucky (between Bandido Taqueria Mexicana and Great Clips). Pizzaville serves the best pizzas using scratch made dough, premium toppings, and the highest quality cheeses available all at a fair price with the friendliest, most helpful customer service in the industry.
For more information about the company or to order pizza online, visit Pizzaville’s website at www.pizzavillepizza.com
==========
Co-Authors - Rachael Reed and Todd CaseLearn more about the Pizzaville Founders
