healthy pizza
Image via ThinkStock

3. Skip The Extra Cheese

If you’re making your own pizza at home, you can use part-skim mozzarella or ricotta or simply use a lighter hand. A small amount of a high-quality cheese goes a long way, so go for something flavorful that you’ll really enjoy. To change things up a little, try topping your pie with a sprinkling of goat cheese or feta. If you’re out, ask if it’s possible to go easy on the cheese. If not, no worries. Just keep it to one slice or discreetly scrape a little off.

4. Experiment With Salad Greens

We know that veggies are more healthy pizza toppings than, say, bacon. Try getting creative with the greens you would normally enjoy in your side salad! A few greens that are great on pizza include arugula, spinach, and shredded kale. They’ll add color, flavor, and a big dose of vitamins and minerals—not to mention some extra fiber. You can do cooked or raw, but keep in mind that the heat from the pizza will wilt them slightly—in a good way!

5. Make Smart Swaps

Steer clear of breaded or fried meat and veggies. Grilled, roasted, or raw varieties are much better choices, since you’ll save yourself the extra calories, fat, sodium, and simple carbs.  You might also want to rethink heavy sauces. Do you really need chunky blue cheese sauce on top of a buffalo chicken pizza that already has cheese on it?

READ MORE: 7 Salad Dressing “Skinny Hacks”