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Pizza can be a nutritious meal option if you follow a few important guidelines.

Pizza frequently earns a negative reputation for being excessively cheesy and greasy, but food experts argue otherwise.

It can actually be a convenient and nutritious option for the entire family, offering a way to satisfy cravings while still being health-conscious.

1. Choose a healthier crust

For your next pizza, think about opting for a whole wheat or vegetable-based crust.

“For your next pizza, consider opting for a whole wheat or vegetable-based crust.

‘Switching from a traditional white flour crust to a whole wheat or veggie-based crust is a game-changer,’ said Hallee Acquanita, MS, a registered dietitian with Anne Till Nutrition Group in Raleigh, North Carolina.”

She pointed out that whole wheat crusts are rich in fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

“Fiber also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their carbohydrate consumption,” Acquanita added.

Similarly, veggie-based crusts like those made from zucchini or cauliflower are often low in both carbohydrates and calories.

2. Pile on the vegetables

Opt for vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and tomatoes to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of your pizza without adding extra calories.

“Adding vegetables to your pizza not only offers a range of flavors but also boosts the meal with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants,” Acquanita explained.

You can also include fruit on your pizza for an extra burst of flavor.

For instance, pineapple can introduce a touch of sweetness to your dish.

3. Select lean proteins

Avoid highly processed meats like sausage and pepperoni, advised Acquanita, and opt for leaner proteins such as chicken, ground beef, or turkey.

“Lean proteins contain less saturated fat, which can help prevent high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease,” she explained.

For non-meat eaters, plant-based choices like tofu can be a way to boost the protein.

4. Reduce the amount of cheese

For many, cheese is a favorite part of pizza.

However, while cheese adds great flavor, it is also high in saturated fat and calories, Acquanita warned.

“Try requesting ‘light cheese’ or choosing a lower-fat option like part-skim mozzarella or feta,” Acquanita recommended.

This simple change can notably decrease both calorie and saturated fat intake, which can be highly beneficial for heart health.

5. Add fresh herbs

Enhance your pizza’s flavor by topping it with fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley.

These herbs not only add taste but also improve the nutritional value.

“Herbs are packed with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health,” Acquanita noted.

6. Be mindful of slice size

Opting for a smaller pizza size can be a healthier choice.

“Medium pizza slices are smaller than those from a large pizza, so switching from a large to a medium can save nearly 100 calories per slice,” explained Kelly Homesley, a registered dietitian with Novant Health Bariatric Solutions in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Many people concentrate on the number of slices they eat, without paying much attention to the size of each slice, Homesley pointed out.

7. Skip the creamy dipping sauces

Some pizza places offer ranch or blue cheese sauces for dipping.

“These can add up to 250 calories or more to your meal, depending on the amount used, and contribute a lot of extra fat,” Homesley explained.

If you want a dip with your pizza, opt for a lower-calorie option like marinara sauce, she suggested.

Other ways to enhance a pizza dinner

The right side dish or accompaniment can elevate your pizza meal to a new level.

Here are some ways to elevate your favorite pizza dinner.

Balance your meal with a side salad. Reduce the number of pizza slices you usually eat and instead, add a fiber-rich salad packed with a variety of vegetables and topped with a lower-calorie dressing like balsamic vinaigrette, suggested Homesley.

Add some crunch. Raw vegetables paired with a high-protein dip like hummus make a great addition to your meal.

Finish with fruit. If you’re still hungry, opt for fresh fruit as a dessert alternative. It’s packed with fiber and nutrients, Homesley also recommended.