Let’s be honest, pizza is the ultimate comfort food. It’s cheesy, doughy, and oh-so-satisfying. But if you’re trying to maintain a healthier lifestyle, pizza is probably the first thing on your list of guilty pleasures to cut back on.
The good news? You don’t have to! You can still enjoy pizza without the extra calories and grease, as long as you know what to throw on top.
It’s simple: swap the calorie-packed toppings for some healthier alternatives, and suddenly your pizza goes from a calorie bomb to a meal that’s almost virtuous. Almost. Let’s talk about the best low-calorie pizza toppings that’ll let you eat your slice without the side of guilt.
1. Veggies
Vegetables are very important in pizza toppings. They bring flavor, texture, and color to your slice without the fat and calories. So, let’s give them the attention they deserve.
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Spinach
Spinach is the superfood that everyone says we should eat more of. When you throw it on a pizza, it adds a mild earthy flavor and a hefty dose of vitamins A and C. Low-calorie? Absolutely. It’s one of those toppings that make you feel healthier just by looking at it.
Mushrooms
If you’re one of those people still putting pepperoni on your pizza, let me introduce you to mushrooms. They’ve got that savory, umami flavor that gives your pizza a meaty vibe without actually being meat.
Plus, they’re packed with B vitamins and potassium – two things you won’t get from a greasy pepperoni slice.
Red and Green Peppers
Want a bit of crunch and sweetness without loading on the calories? Peppers are your best option. They’re bright, colorful, and add a fresh flavor that makes you feel like you’re eating something way fancier than just pizza.
Onions
Onions are the underrated sidekick of pizza toppings. They add a mild sweetness and a bit of depth to the flavor without bringing along the calories. Plus, their chromium content helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Tomatoes
Yes, tomatoes deserve a spot beyond just being the sauce base. Fresh tomato slices are an excellent topping choice if you want to cut back on sugary sauces. An added bonus is that they’re loaded with lycopene – that highly important antioxidant we really need.
Arugula
If you’ve never topped a hot pizza with fresh arugula, are you even living? Arugula is peppery, low-calorie, and rich in vitamins and minerals. Throw a handful on top after your pizza comes out of the oven, and suddenly your pizza has gone from basic to bougie.
Asparagus
Yep, asparagus on pizza is a thing, and it’s good. Low in calories, full of nutrients, and adds a unique texture that pairs well with lighter cheeses or lean proteins like chicken. Trust me, give it a try.
Potatoes
It might not be the first veggie that comes to mind, but potatoes on pizza are surprisingly delicious and can still be part of a healthy slice if done right. Thinly sliced or roasted potatoes add a hearty, satisfying texture without overloading on calories – especially if you go for sweet potatoes or baby new potatoes.
Plus, they’re a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Pair them with lighter toppings like arugula or onions, and you’ve got a filling, nutrient-packed option that feels indulgent but keeps things balanced.
2. Lean Proteins
We’ve talked veggies, but let’s not forget the protein. No one wants to be hungry an hour after eating their pizza, right? Here are the lean protein options that’ll fill you up without tipping the calorie scale.
Grilled Chicken
You want to feel full? Toss on some grilled chicken. It’s one of the leanest protein options you can put on pizza, and it adds substance without adding too many calories or fat. Stick to white meat to keep it even lighter.
Turkey Pepperoni
For the die-hard pepperoni lovers out there, turkey pepperoni is your saving grace. It’s got that same spicy kick but with way fewer calories and fat. It’s basically pepperoni’s healthier cousin.
Shrimp
Hear me out – shrimp on pizza is the move if you want to switch things up. It’s light, high in protein, and adds a slight sweetness that works surprisingly well.
Ham
No, not the fatty kind. I’m talking about lean cuts of ham. You still get that salty, meaty flavor without loading on the calories.
3. Cheese Alternatives
Pizza without cheese? Madness! But, let’s be real – cheese is where things can get dicey calorie-wise. Lucky for you, there are some lighter cheese alternatives that still give you that melty goodness without the guilt trip.
Part-Skim Mozzarella
We all love mozzarella, but let’s not pretend it’s low-calorie. Opt for part-skim mozzarella instead. It’s lower in fat, and you’ll barely notice the difference – especially when everything’s melted together in cheesy glory.
Feta Cheese
Feta is strong-flavored, so you don’t need a ton of it to get that bold, salty taste.
- Bonus: it’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular pizza cheeses.
Ricotta Cheese
Creamy, mild, and perfect when paired with veggies like spinach or fresh tomatoes. Ricotta is lower in fat and calories compared to a lot of other cheeses. Slather a little on top of your pizza for a lighter, creamier alternative.
Goat Cheese
I could write sonnets about goat cheese. It’s tangy, creamy, and lower in calories than a lot of other cheese options. Plus, it pairs perfectly with fresh greens like arugula. Basically, it makes you feel fancy for eating pizza. Win-win.
4. Fruits
Don’t roll your eyes just yet. Fruits on pizza aren’t as bizarre as they sound. In fact, they can be the perfect low-calorie topping when paired with the right ingredients.
Pineapple
Here we go – the most divisive pizza topping in history. Love it or hate it, pineapple is low in calories and adds a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs well with ham or chicken. Plus, it’s packed with vitamin C.
Sliced Apples or Pears
Now we’re getting fancy. Thinly sliced apples or pears can add a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese. It’s the kind of thing that makes your pizza look gourmet while being super simple.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes aren’t exactly “fruit” in the traditional sense, but technically, they count. And they pack a punch of flavor without needing to drown your pizza in sauce.
5. Fresh Herbs and Spices
Now, let’s talk about flavor. Fresh herbs and spices are very important when we talk pizza toppings. They bring all the flavor without any of the calories.
Basil
Nothing says “classic pizza” like fresh basil. Throw a few leaves on your pizza for a burst of freshness and a little vitamin boost. Plus, it looks pretty.
Oregano
If you’re not adding oregano to your pizza, what are you doing? It’s the quintessential pizza spice. It adds that familiar Italian flavor without adding calories. Oh, and it has some antioxidant benefits.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Like a bit of heat? Crushed red pepper flakes bring the spice without bringing the calories. Add them to a veggie-loaded pizza for a little kick.
6. Sauce Matters, Too
Your choice of sauce can make or break your healthy pizza. Traditional pizza sauce can be loaded with hidden sugars, so let’s look at some lighter alternatives.
Tomato Sauce
Keep it simple. Opt for plain tomato sauce with no added sugar. It’s low in calories and packed with antioxidants.
Pesto
Pesto isn’t exactly low-calorie, but it’s rich in healthy fats and flavor, so a little goes a long way. Spread it sparingly for a burst of flavor that doesn’t break the calorie bank.
Hummus
Want to get weird with it? Use hummus as your base. It’s creamy, full of protein, and pairs well with veggies like spinach and roasted red peppers. It’s pizza with a Mediterranean twist.
7. Crust
Your crust choice could be the difference between a healthy pizza and a calorie disaster. Go light here, and the toppings can do the heavy lifting.
Cauliflower Crust
Cauliflower crust has entered the chat. It’s low-carb, low-calorie, and high in fiber. Basically, it’s your pizza’s MVP if you’re trying to keep things light.
Whole Wheat Crust
If cauliflower crust isn’t your jam, try whole wheat. It’s got more fiber and nutrients than your standard white crust and helps keep you full longer.
Thin Crust
When in doubt, go thin. The thinner the crust, the fewer calories and carbs. It’s the easiest way to lighten up your pizza without changing the flavor.
Summary
There you have it – the low-calorie toppings that’ll let you enjoy pizza without sabotaging your healthy eating goals. From veggie-loaded slices to lean proteins and lighter cheese options, the possibilities are endless.
Just don’t go back to that greasy, cheese-laden pie you were eating before. Your body deserves better.
