How to Make a Healthy Pizza with Greek Yogurt Crust
Pizza is a beloved dish enjoyed by many, but traditional pizza can be high in calories, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates. The good news is that you can still indulge in this tasty treat while keeping it healthy. The latest trend in healthy pizzas features a crust made with thick Greek yogurt. This alternative not only reduces the calorie count but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the steps of making a delicious and healthy pizza using Greek yogurt for the crust.
Why Greek Yogurt?
Greek yogurt is an excellent ingredient for a healthy pizza crust because it is:
High in Protein: Greek yogurt is packed with protein, which helps to keep you feeling full and supports muscle growth and repair.
Low in Calories: It has fewer calories compared to traditional pizza dough ingredients.
Rich in Probiotics: Greek yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
Calcium-Rich: It is a good source of calcium, essential for healthy bones and teeth.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
250g thick Greek yogurt
120g self-raising flour (whole wheat or gluten-free options can be used)
Pinch of salt
For the Toppings:
120g tomato sauce (look for low-sodium options)
100g low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
A variety of vegetables (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, etc.)
Lean protein options (grilled chicken, turkey pepperoni, etc.)
Fresh herbs (basil, oregano)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, self-raising flour, and a pinch of salt.
Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it is manageable.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth.
Roll Out the Dough:
Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. For a thicker crust, aim for about 1/4 inch.
Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone.
Pre-Bake the Crust:
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown. This helps to create a sturdy base for your toppings.
Add the Toppings:
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pre-baked crust.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
Add your choice of vegetables, lean protein, and fresh herbs.
Bake the Pizza:
Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Slice and serve your healthy, homemade Greek yogurt crust pizza.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
To calculate the macros for this pizza, we'll assume the pizza is cut into 4 servings.
Crust (per serving):
Calories: 175 kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 3g
Toppings (per serving):
Calories: 145 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 7g
Total (per serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 10g
Tips for Customising Your Healthy Pizza
For a Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free self-raising flour instead of regular flour.
Increase Fiber: Add flaxseed meal or chia seeds to the dough for an extra fiber boost.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free Greek yogurt alternative and dairy-free cheese if you're lactose intolerant or vegan.
Load Up on Veggies: The more vegetables, the better. They add vitamins, minerals, and fiber without many calories.
Experiment with Flavours: Try different herbs and spices in your dough or as toppings to create unique flavour profiles.
Nutritional Benefits
By using Greek yogurt for the crust, you are significantly boosting the protein content of your pizza while keeping the calories in check. The toppings can be tailored to suit your dietary needs, making it a versatile and nutritious meal option.
Protein: Helps with muscle repair and growth.
Fiber: Promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full.
Vitamins and Minerals: Essential nutrients from vegetables and lean protein sources support overall health.
Making a healthy pizza with a Greek yogurt crust is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic favourite. This recipe is easy to customise and perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavour. Give it a try and enjoy a guilt-free pizza night!
For more healthy recipes and tips, stay tuned to our blog and follow us on social media. Happy cooking!
