Pizza! On average 350 indulgent slices are consumed every 30 seconds in the United States. To celebrate this love for pizza, Americans created National Pizza Week, every second week in January. To celebrate everyone’s love of the slice and commemorate this holiday we spoke with Health Initiatives culinary trained dietitian, Leah Galante, MS, RDN, LD, for ideas to make a healthier pie.  

Galante recommends stepping into the kitchen and creating your own masterpiece. “By making your own pizza, you’ll be able to select a variety of healthy options to top your pizza.” Vegetables are a great topping. “Bell peppers, tomato slices, and spinach add some appealing color and a nutrient density,” added Galante. For additional flavor use spices and herbs such as basil, garlic, and oregano. “I recommend whole grain crust options for the extra fiber and flavor…whole grain naan is a great alternative to the traditional pizza crust, especially when you’re in a hurry,” said Galante.

For inspiration try out some of these easy naan bread pizza ideas Galante shared and enjoy National Pizza Week.

Ingredients:

2 Whole Grain Naan Breads

1 Tablespoon olive oil

½ cup sauce: tomato, pesto, or BBQ (1/4 cup for each naan)

Desired toppings (see ideas below)

Topping combination ideas:

• Caprese: pesto sauce, sliced fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, fresh basil
• Basic: tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella, bell peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni
• Greek: pesto or tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, spinach, feta
• BBQ Chicken: BBQ sauce, chopped grilled chicken (toss in sauce), shredded mozzarella, red onion, and banana peppers
• Spinach Ricotta: olive oil, spinach, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Prepare desired ingredients:  chop or slice veggies, slice fresh mozzarella, etc.
3. Place naan on a baking sheet. Lightly brush naan with olive oil. Top with desired ingredient combination.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cheese has melted.
5. Enjoy!