When embarking on a healthier eating journey, many people eliminate beloved foods like pizza. While this approach may work for some, for others, it leads to cravings and eventual setbacks. This article presents three techniques to incorporate pizza into a balanced diet, even while managing weight.
The first technique requires no cooking at all: the leftover pizza sandwich. A single slice of New York-style pizza can pack over 400 calories. While one slice might seem reasonable, pizza consumption often involves multiple slices, significantly increasing calorie intake. This technique addresses portion control by utilizing a single slice.
![Pizza sandwich with grilled chicken and arugula]()
By folding the slice, adding grilled chicken, and lightly dressed greens like arugula, you create a satisfying pizza chicken salad sandwich. This provides a boost of protein and fiber, increasing satiety compared to consuming plain pizza slices. The warm, crispy pizza bread paired with the fresh ingredients creates a surprisingly delicious and healthier meal.
The second technique is the “P” pizza, emphasizing portion control and creative toppings. A single Pita bread, at approximately 200 calories, serves as the base. Instead of traditional pizza toppings, explore high-protein, lower-calorie options.
![Pita pizza with yogurt base, harissa paste, meatballs, feta, and mozzarella]()
Consider using non-fat Greek yogurt as a base, adding spices like harissa paste, lean meatballs, fresh mozzarella, feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onions. Fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, shaved lettuce, and a sprinkle of fresh dill further enhance the flavors and nutrients. A light drizzle of olive oil completes this crunchy and flavorful pizza alternative.
The third technique tackles the craving for a whole pizza with a high-protein dough and mindful topping choices. This involves creating a dough higher in protein than traditional pizza dough while using cheese judiciously. A high-protein dough can be made by incorporating bread flour with a protein-rich flour blend.
![High-protein pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan]()
This dough offers a higher protein content per calorie compared to regular pizza dough. Top the dough with a moderate amount of tomato sauce and a selection of cheeses like fresh mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. Adding fresh basil and a light garlic butter sauce enhances the flavor without excessive calories. This technique allows for enjoying a whole pizza while prioritizing protein and mindful portioning.
