Healthy Whole Wheat Veggie Pizza

TWho says pizza can’t be healthy? This Whole Wheat Veggie Pizza is a delicious and nutritious option for those who love pizza but want to keep it light and wholesome. Made with a whole wheat crust, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful tomato sauce, this recipe offers a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite comfort food.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

The Sauce:

• 1/2 cup canned tomato sauce (no sugar added)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-fat or vegan option)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/4 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes. Set aside.

Assemble the Pizza:

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the crust.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, then add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and zucchini as toppings.

Bake and Serve:

1. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
2. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve warm.

Why It’s Healthy

• Whole Wheat Crust: Rich in fiber and nutrients compared to refined flour.
• Fresh Veggies: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Low-Fat Cheese or Vegan Option: Reduces calories and saturated fat.
• Homemade Sauce: Free of added sugars and preservatives.

Health Benefits

• Supports Digestion: Whole wheat provides dietary fiber.
• Boosts Immunity: Fresh vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C.
• Heart-Healthy: Olive oil and low-fat cheese reduce cholesterol levels.

This healthy veggie pizza is proof that eating well doesn’t mean giving up on your favorite foods. With its crunchy whole wheat crust, vibrant veggies, and homemade sauce, it’s a meal you can enjoy without any guilt. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal preps, this pizza will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your healthy lifestyle.