Let’s talk pizza! Who doesn’t love a hot slice fresh from the oven? Not only is homemade pizza quick to make, it’s a real crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize with good-for-you ingredients. Follow these tips to make a few healthy swaps and construct a tasty pizza from the crust up!

Crust

For a healthier pizza crust, lean into whole grains. Unlike white flour, whole wheat is packed with fiber, which is important for digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. And when it comes to crust, the thinner the better! Have you heard of cauliflower crust? It’s another good choice that has fewer carbs and provides vitamin C. If you’re short on time, let everyone in your family make their own personal pizzas using whole wheat pita bread or whole grain tortillas.

Sauce

Making your own sauce lets you control the flavors and avoid high levels of sodium and sugar, which can be found in many store-bought versions. To make a simple red sauce, blend fresh tomatoes with garlic and spices. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium, which help your body stay healthy. If you prefer something a little simpler, just sprinkle some olive oil and garlic powder on the crust. Olive oil is a source of healthy fats, which are good for your heart.

Cheese

Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese is a smart choice. It’s lower in fat but still melts well. Cheese is high in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. For something different, try adding a bit of ricotta cheese for a creamy taste and extra protein.

Toppings

This is where you can get creative! Almost any vegetable works on pizza. Try roasted red peppers, zucchini, mushrooms or eggplant. These veggies are high in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and fiber, which are great for your health. You can even add some greens like arugula or baby spinach. Leafy greens are packed with vitamins K and A. Toss them in a little olive oil and put them on top after the pizza is baked for a salad-like twist.

Lean meats are another good option to add to any pizza. Leftover rotisserie chicken adds protein while helping you get rid of leftovers taking up space in your fridge. Chicken sausage or ground turkey are easy options as well, and tend to be lower in calories and fat than traditional sausage.

With these tips, you’re all set for your best pizza night yet. Whether you’re adding lots of veggies, trying a new crust or experimenting with different cheeses, the possibilities are endless. So gather your ingredients, invite your family to help and have fun creating your own pizza masterpieces.