Healthy Pizza

Serves : 4

Pizza, originating in Italy, is a global culinary icon, with countless regional variations. This healthy version aligns with modern dietary trends emphasizing whole grains and nutrient-dense ingredients.
In the U.S., whole wheat pizza has gained popularity in health-focused eateries and home kitchens, reflecting a cultural shift toward balanced eating. The customizable toppings cater to diverse palates, incorporating global flavors like Mediterranean vegetables or spicy additions, making it a versatile dish across cultures.
Pizza traces its roots to Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century, with the Margherita pizza symbolizing Italian unification. Traditional pizza used refined flour, but the 20th century saw whole wheat versions emerge as health awareness grew.
By the 1980s, U.S. pizzerias began offering whole grain crusts to cater to health-conscious consumers. The use of low-moisture mozzarella and vegetable toppings reflects modern adaptations, balancing indulgence with nutrition.
Today, healthy pizza is a staple in wellness focused cuisines worldwide.

Ingredients

*Whole wheat pizza dough*
1 cup water, heated to 110°F
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 envelope (2 ¼ teaspoons) rapid-rise or instant yeast
2 ¾ cups white whole wheat flour or regular whole wheat flour
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon sea salt
*Toppings*
One 32-ounce can whole tomatoes, drained and crushed by hand OR about ⅔ cup pizza sauce of choice
2 cups shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese
Additional toppings of choice(e.g., bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach)

Method

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 500°F with a rack in the upper third.

Step 2

Whisk water, sugar, oil, and yeast in a liquid measuring cup or small bowl. Let proof for 5 minutes until it puffs up.

Step 3

Pulse flour, Parmesan, and salt in a food processor until combined. With the processor running, slowly pour in the water mixture and process until a shaggy ball forms, about 1 minute.

Step 4

Dump dough onto a floured surface and knead a few times until cohesive. Halve the dough.

Step 5

On a floured surface, roll each half into an 11-inch round, aiming for even thickness and a thin crust.

Step 6

Transfer dough to a baking pan (lightly grease with cooking spray if not non-stick).

Step 7

Brush the outer 1-inch of dough with olive oil.

Step 8

Spread drained, crushed tomatoes or pizza sauce over the dough. Sprinkle it with mozzarella and additional toppings.

Step 9

Bake on the top rack until the crust and cheese are lightly golden, about 10 minutes for cheese pizza or 12 minutes with additional toppings, rotating halfway.

Done

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Good to know:-

Healthy Pizza is practical for home cooks, with a preparation time of about 30 to 40 minutes, including dough prep and baking.

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a day, streamlining the process.

Using a food processor simplifies dough mixing, and store-bought whole wheat dough or sauce can further reduce prep time.

The recipe’s flexibility allows for pantry staples or leftover vegetables, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals or casual gatherings.

Calories (kcal) 408

Protein (g) 40

Fat (g) 25

Carbohydrate (g) 94

This pizza is a balanced option, rich in protein and fiber from whole wheat dough and mozzarella. The use of whole grains and customizable vegetable toppings enhances its nutritional value, making it suitable for health-conscious diets. Opting for low-moisture part-skim mozzarella reduces fat content compared to traditional pizza.

Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or oregano post-baking. Pair with a light vinaigrette to complement the pizza’s hearty crust.

You might also like

Follow us on

All rights reserved to Nestlé Family Club