Looking for a delicious pizza that won't derail your diet? Look no further than our 1 serving fresh tomato basil pizza (large), clocking in at just 230 calories. With a burst of flavor from ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, this pizza is sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
But there's more to this pizza than just low calories. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients and nutritional value to see why it's one of the healthiest options out there.
In this article, we'll explore some tips for preparation and customization, as well as the health benefits of key ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner, you'll find plenty of inspiration for making the perfect pie.
Calorie count for a single serving
As mentioned earlier, one serving of our tomato basil pizza contains just 230 calories. This makes it an ideal choice for those watching their calorie intake, whether for weight loss or maintenance. Of course, the exact calorie count may vary slightly depending on factors such as the size of the pizza and the amount of cheese used. However, in general, this pizza is a low-calorie option that still satisfies your cravings for something savory and satisfying.
Ingredients used in making the pizza
The key ingredients in our tomato basil pizza are: - Freshly diced tomatoes
- Fragrant basil leaves
- Low-fat mozzarella cheese
- Whole wheat crust
- Italian seasoning and garlic powder These simple but flavorful ingredients come together to create a pizza that's bursting with flavor and nutrients. Plus, because we use whole wheat crust and low-fat cheese, you can feel good about indulging in this dish without harming your waistline.
The nutritional value of the pizza
In addition to being low in calories, our tomato basil pizza also boasts a number of other health benefits. For example, a single serving contains: - 11g of protein
- 8g of fiber
- 24% of your daily value of vitamin C
- 19% of your daily value of vitamin A These nutrients help to fill you up and keep you satisfied, while also supporting a healthy immune system, skin, and eyesight. Plus, with the antioxidants from the tomatoes and herbs, this pizza may even help to reduce your risk of certain diseases!
Preparation instructions for the pizza
Ready to make your own fresh tomato basil pizza? Here's a quick guide to getting started: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it's about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edge for the crust.
4. Top with a layer of shredded cheese.
5. Add your diced tomatoes and chopped basil on top of the cheese.
6. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder to taste.
7. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
8. Slice and enjoy! Feel free to adjust the toppings and seasoning as desired to create your own signature pizza. Since this recipe only makes one serving, it's also a great option for those cooking for one or trying to avoid leftovers.
The health benefits of tomatoes and basil
Tomatoes and basil are two of the star ingredients in our pizza. Here's what you need to know about their health benefits: - Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help to reduce your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. They're also a good source of vitamin C and potassium, two nutrients that are essential for a healthy diet.
- Basil is rich in essential oils and antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy digestion. It may even have antibacterial properties that can help to fight off infections. Together, these two ingredients make for a powerhouse pizza that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. So go ahead and enjoy that extra slice - your body will thank you!
Serving size recommendations
As mentioned earlier, this recipe is designed to make one serving of pizza. However, you may prefer to make a larger batch for sharing with friends and family. In general, we recommend serving slices that are about 1/8th of the pizza each. This will give everyone a taste of the delicious toppings without going overboard on calories or portion sizes.
Different ways to customize the pizza
One of the great things about pizza is that it's endlessly customizable. Here are a few ideas for switching up the toppings and seasonings to create your perfect pie: - Add some extra veggies, like sliced bell peppers or mushrooms, to boost the fiber and nutrient content of your pizza.
- Swap out the low-fat cheese for a vegan or dairy-free option, like almond cheese or cashew cheese, to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations, like oregano and red pepper flakes or thyme and rosemary. With so many possible variations, you'll never get bored of this healthy pizza! Try out different combinations until you find your favorite.
Comparing calorie count with other pizza types
Of course, our tomato basil pizza isn't the only type of pizza out there. Here's how it stacks up against some other popular varieties in terms of calorie content: - Pepperoni pizza: A single slice of pepperoni pizza typically contains around 300-350 calories.
- Mushroom pizza: A slice of mushroom pizza will usually have around 250-300 calories.
- Hawaiian pizza: With the addition of ham and pineapple, Hawaiian pizza can pack a calorific punch - one slice might have 350-400 calories! As you can see, our tomato basil pizza is one of the lower-calorie options available. But even if you're indulging in a more calorific pizza once in a while, remember that moderation and portion control are key to maintaining a healthy diet.
How to store leftover pizza
If you've made a larger batch of tomato basil pizza and have some leftovers on hand, there are a few ways to store them for maximum freshness. - In the fridge: Wrap individual slices of pizza in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days this way.
- In the freezer: If you won't be eating the leftovers within a few days, consider freezing them for longer storage. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To reheat your leftover pizza, you can use an oven, toaster oven, or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F and place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for 5-10 minutes or until heated through. If using the microwave, place a single slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds or until hot. By storing and reheating your leftovers properly, you can enjoy this delicious pizza for days to come!
Possible side dishes that go well with the pizza
Looking to round out your meal with some other tasty dishes? Here are a few side dish suggestions that pair well with our tomato basil pizza: - Garden salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great way to add some extra veggies to your meal.
- Roasted vegetables: Toss some chopped broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes with olive oil and spices, then roast in the oven for a delicious and nutritious side.
- Fruit salad: A sweet and refreshing fruit salad (with options like sliced strawberries, grapes, and cantaloupe) is a great contrast to the savory flavors of the pizza. By combining our pizza with some well-chosen side dishes, you can create a balanced and satisfying meal that you'll look forward to enjoying again and again!
Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first. -Ernestine Ulmer
Frequently Asked Questions about Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza
1. How many slices are in a large serving of Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza?
This information may vary depending on the pizza chain or restaurant that you order from. Typically, a large pizza contains 8 slices, but some places may cut it into 10 or 12 slices.
2. Is the calorie count for one slice or for the entire pizza?
The calorie count listed is for one serving, which is typically one slice if the pizza is cut into 8 slices. If you eat the entire pizza, you will need to multiply the calorie count by the number of slices or servings.
3. What are the other nutritional values of Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza?
Aside from calories, the pizza may contain carbohydrates, fat, protein, sodium, and other nutrients depending on the toppings or crust used. You can ask the restaurant or check their website for more information about their nutritional values.
4. Is Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza a healthy food option?
It depends on your dietary needs and preferences. Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza can be a healthier choice compared to other pizza flavors that are high in fat or calories. The use of fresh, natural ingredients like tomato and basil may also provide some health benefits. However, you should still watch your portion sizes and balance your intake with other nutrient-dense foods.
5. Can I customize my Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza with other toppings?
Yes! While Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza usually comes with tomatoes and basil as the main toppings, you can add or remove other toppings to suit your taste. Some popular additions include cheese, onions, mushrooms, peppers, and meat or seafood. Just be aware that adding more toppings may increase the calorie count and affect the nutritional profile of the pizza.