Here at the Zim’s blog we love talking about healthy living and how to live to our ultimate max each day. In previous entries we’ve answered the question- can chocolate, granola, waffles, smoothies and more be healthy? Today we are tackling one of the world’s most popular and versatile of foods: pizza. Is healthy pizza possible?

pizza with berries

Just with almost any foods there are ways to make pizza part of a healthy diet. A lot of it comes down to balance and the whole meal eaten with the pizza. Rather than eating slice after slice it’s a great idea to pair the pizza with a side salad or something non-starchy but filling like asparagus, zucchini or spinach. If you are going out order the salad with dressing on the side so you can control how much ends up on your salad. Also avoid the sugary drinks with your pizza and drink water instead.

pizza with green leaves on top

The next place we can make pizza healthy is in the crust. Using a thin crust is going to cut down on calories and allow you to eat more slices. There are also creative crust options that can add protein and fiber such as cauliflower or other gluten free crusts.

Another way we can make our pizzas better options is piling on the veggies, mushrooms and other fresh toppings. If you are making your pizza by hand than add some roasted chicken instead of salty fatty pepperoni. Try adding some peppers and onions. Even thinly sliced steak with some goat cheese can be great on pizza.

You can purchase cheese at the grocery store that is lower in fat and calories than traditional mozzarella; however, usually these low calorie options don’t melt well and taste rubbery. Who wants that when they are trying to fix their pizza craving? Instead get what you like and eat it in moderation while sneaking in some protein and fresh vegetables along the way.

So, yes healthy pizza is possible. What are some of your tricks for healthy pizza? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section.