5 Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Pizza (2024)

Pizza is a popular comfort food enjoyed by many, but it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium, making it an unhealthy option for those seeking a balanced diet.However, there are many healthier alternatives to pizza that offer similar taste and satisfaction without compromising on nutrition.

In this blog, we'll explore 5 healthier alternatives to pizza, while also discussing the importance of proper nutrition and the role of the American Sports and Fitness Association (ASFA) in promoting healthy and effective sports nutrition practices through its Sports Nutrition Certification program.


1. Cauliflower Crust Pizza

Cauliflower crust pizza is a popular alternative to traditional pizza crusts, offering a low-carb, high-fiber, and nutrient-dense option. Cauliflower is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

2. Flatbread Pizza

Flatbread pizza is a thinner and lighter option than traditional pizza, reducing calories and carbohydrates. Opt for whole grain or whole wheat flatbread for added nutrition and fiber.

3. Zucchini Pizza Bites

Zucchini pizza bites are a fun and creative alternative to traditional pizza, offering a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carbohydrate option. Zucchini is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.

4. Portobello Mushroom Pizza

Portobello mushroom pizza is a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional pizza, offering a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carbohydrate option. Portobello mushrooms are also a good source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants.

5. Quinoa Pizza Crust

Quinoa pizza crust is a high-protein, high-fiber, and gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza crusts. Quinoa is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthy and nutritious option.

The Role of the American Sports and Fitness Association (ASFA)

Proper nutrition is essential for optimal health and fitness, and the American Sports and Fitness Association (ASFA) promotes healthy and effective sports nutrition practices through programs such as the Sports Nutrition Certification. By completing this certification, fitness professionals can show their clients that they have the knowledge and expertise necessary to provide effective nutrition guidance for their health and fitness goals.

In conclusion, there are many healthier alternatives to traditional pizza that offer similar taste and satisfaction without compromising on nutrition. By incorporating these options into a balanced diet and promoting healthy nutrition practices, individuals can improve their overall health and fitness. And, as a fitness professional, consider ASFA Sports Nutrition Certification to ensure you have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective nutrition guidance for your clients.

If you are willing to enter the field of nutrition and help others, you can contact us at the American Sports & Fitness Association for your certification.

5 Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Pizza (1)

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5 Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Pizza (2024)

FAQs

5 Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Pizza? ›

There are plenty of pizza choices that can be considered healthy. Some options that can easily fit into a nutritious and balanced diet include a thin-crust pizza and a cauliflower-crust pizza. Topping choices on the more nutritious side are vegetables, chicken, shrimp and cheese.

What are the healthiest pizza options? ›

There are plenty of pizza choices that can be considered healthy. Some options that can easily fit into a nutritious and balanced diet include a thin-crust pizza and a cauliflower-crust pizza. Topping choices on the more nutritious side are vegetables, chicken, shrimp and cheese.

What can I do instead of pizza? ›

Here are 12 ideas for party fare that will help you out of the takeout pizza rut:
  1. Grilled Cheese for a Crowd. Grilled cheese doesn't sound like a smart idea for a party—until you make it this way. ...
  2. Fondue. ...
  3. Chili. ...
  4. Pulled pork sandwiches. ...
  5. Taco bar. ...
  6. Burgers. ...
  7. Potato Bar. ...
  8. Kebabs.
Jan 17, 2018

What are three pizza crust alternatives? ›

Save time by swapping your regular pizza dough for simple substitutes. Our alternative bases include pitta bread, naan, puff pastry, wraps and polenta.

How can pizza be made healthier? ›

Tips To Make Your Pizza Heart-Healthy
  1. Start with a healthy crust. Give your pizza a whole-grain foundation to up your intake of healthy fiber. ...
  2. Be smart about sauce. Heart-healthy sauces can be a good source of monounsaturated fats and vitamins. ...
  3. Get cheesy (in moderation) ...
  4. Pile on the veggies. ...
  5. Pick lean proteins.
Oct 4, 2022

Is there a healthy way to eat pizza? ›

Avoid processed meats: Swap processed meats like pepperoni and bacon for a healthier source of protein like grilled chicken. Go for whole-grain: Opt for whole-grain crusts to increase fiber content. Choose sauce with no added sugar: Choose brands that contain no added sugar to keep sugar content to a minimum.

What is similar to pizza? ›

If pizza is one of your favourite weeknight dinners, you'll love these recipes inspired by the Italian doughy dish.
  • 1Bruschetta pizza. ...
  • 2Pizza damper. ...
  • 3Deep-dish Mexican pizza. ...
  • 4Ham and pineapple pizza skewers. ...
  • 5Fruit 'pizza' ...
  • 6Pizza ravioli bites. ...
  • 7Tandoori naan pizzas. ...
  • 8Pizza pasta bake.

What can I have for dinner instead of pizza? ›

More like this
  1. Homemade Stromboli. ...
  2. 17 Simple Easy Dinner Ideas To Try. ...
  3. Friday Night Dinner Ideas • Rachel. ...
  4. Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet. ...
  5. Epic Chunky Beef and Mushroom Pie. ...
  6. Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne. ...
  7. Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner. ...
  8. Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy | A Taste of Madness.
Aug 6, 2019

What is the best substitute for cheese in pizza? ›

Vegan grated cheese alternatives are not uncommon now and there are several basic ingredients you can use to make them, such as:
  • Coconut oil.
  • Potato starch.
  • Peas or pea protein.
  • Soy or tofu.
  • Nuts.
  • Tapioca.
  • Arrowroot.
  • Chickpeas.

What is the healthiest pizza base? ›

Both the cauliflower crust and the whole-wheat crust offer fiber and protein, which play a key role in weight loss by helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal. But if you're not trying to cut carbs and are looking for that traditional pizza pie flavor, the whole-wheat crust is what you want.

Which pizza crust is healthier? ›

Cauliflower and whole wheat pizza crusts are higher in fiber and protein and lower in carbs and calories than traditional crust.

What is the healthiest pizza option? ›

Opt for thin crust: Choose a thin crust pizza over deep-dish or stuffed crust options. Thin crusts have fewer calories and less saturated fat. For example, a thin crust can shave around 50-75 calories from each slice compared to the same pie made with a deep-dish or stuffed crust.

What are 3 reasons pizza is unhealthy? ›

Despite the convenience, these types of pizzas can be bad for you. They're often high in calories, sodium and unhealthy fats, as well as having more artificial preservatives. Processed meat toppings, stuffed crusts and extra cheese add to the poor nutritional value.

What is a healthy substitute for pepperoni? ›

Turkey sausage and roasted chicken provide a healthy and satisfying alternative to regular pepperoni slices. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and black olives are common pizza toppings, all pleasantly nutritious. Some other nutrient-rich options include butternut squash, tofu, lox, and artichokes.

What pizza is the lowest in calories? ›

Thin Crust Pizza

Is thin crust pizza a healthier option? ›

Yes, you heard it here first, folks. Technically speaking, thin-crust pizza is healthier than thick-crust pizza! The thinner a pizza crust is, the fewer calories and carbohydrates it contains. Thin crust pizza also has less salt, less sodium, and less saturated fat.

Which is the healthiest pizza takeaway? ›

Stone baked pizza, in particular, can be a healthier option when compared to deep-fried or heavily processed fast food options. One of the main reasons why stone baked pizza is a healthy takeaway, is the beloved crust.

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