Pizza welcomes many toppings, from meat to vegetables. There are many unique, mouth-watering ways to create a healthy pie, and you may discover your new favorite in the process. Below are a few ideas you can use next time your order a custom pie at a pizza place.

4 Ways to Create Healthier Pizza

1. Choose Thin Crust

Pizza crust is loaded with carbohydrates. Many people don’t get enough exercise to burn extra carbs, and they’re converted to fat. You can cut down on the number of carbs you ingest by ordering a thin crust pie at a pizza place.

2. Cut Down on Fatty Meats

Pepperoni and sausage are two iconic pizza toppings, and unfortunately, they’re a common reason that slices are labeled unhealthy.

Instead, choose thinly sliced lean meats like turkey bacon, salami, and chicken sausage. You can ask the pizza place to lower the amount of these they use on the pizza and to add healthier veggies in their place.

3. Choose Healthy Veggies

There are many healthy vegetables you can add to your pizza. Spinach is a favorite that’s low in calories and loaded with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K1, as well as fiber, iron, and folic acid. Caramelized onion slices have plenty of B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants.

Try fresh tomatoes, which have cancer- and heart disease-fighting antioxidants, or a tasty blend of sweet and spicy peppers for a low-calorie source of vitamins and minerals.

4. Use Less Cheese

Ask for less cheese at the pizza place. You’ll be cutting out a lot of healthy fats and will find that less mozzarella still provides a thin cover over the entire pie. When you add your favorite veggies over a thin crust, you’ll see that there’s still plenty of flavor and texture.

If you’re craving pizza, stop by Papa Rocco’s in Gulf Shores, AL. This pizza place serves a large selection of pies, and since the 1980s, has provided live music and entertainment for guests. They also have a full oyster bar and serve carryout. Call (251) 948-7262 to place an order or to learn more about their menu.