Delicious and Healthy Low Sodium Pizza Recipe
In the world of pizza, there are few joys greater than a freshly baked, hot-out-of-the-oven slice of cheese and sauce. However, for those who need to be mindful of their sodium intake for health reasons, store-bought pizza is often out of the question due to its high sodium content. Fear not! This low sodium pizza recipe is here to solve that problem.
Whether you’re someone who has been instructed by a healthcare professional to cut back on dietary sodium, or simply someone who wants to make healthier choices, this recipe is an easy way to do so while still enjoying the deliciousness of a homemade pizza. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this low sodium pizza recipe allows you to control how much salt goes into your meal without sacrificing any flavor.
As someone who has struggled with keeping my blood pressure under control, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find tasty foods while sticking to a low sodium diet. That’s why I want to share this recipe with you. Trust me, you won’t even miss the excess salt once you try this healthier homemade option.
So let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions and get ready to make a delicious low sodium pizza that your taste buds and body will thank you for.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of store-bought pizzas that are high in sodium and lacking in flavor? Look no further than this low sodium pizza recipe. Not only is it a healthier alternative, but it’s also packed with rich, savory taste that’ll make your taste buds dance.
By using no-salt-added tomato sauce and Hunt’s no-salt-added tomato paste, we can control and reduce the amount of salt in the pizza sauce without compromising its delicious flavor. Furthermore, this recipe utilizes whole wheat flour for the crust, which provides additional health benefits such as fiber and nutrients.
The secret to a perfectly crispy crust lies in the combination of warm water, dry yeast, sugar, and olive oil. These ingredients work together seamlessly to create a light and airy dough that will sign off any pizza crust cravings.
I mean, who doesn’t love pizza? And what’s better than a homemade pizza with healthier ingredients where you have control over the amount of sodium that you are consuming? This low sodium pizza recipe is by far one of the best low-sodium recipes out there. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients and provides the perfect canvas for any kind of toppings at any time you wish. Have some leftover chicken? Add it as one of the toppings to create a mouth-watering chicken pizza or dress it up with Italian sausage or even enjoy a classic cheese pizza!
This recipe is not only perfect for those on a low sodium diet or looking for a healthier homemade option but makes an ideal comfort food for anyone looking to enjoy some deliciously satisfying eats without any guilt whatsoever. Trust me when I say that once you try this pizza recipe, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredient List
Before embarking on this low-sodium pizza journey, let us first acquaint you with the key ingredients that we will use in creating our healthier homemade pizza recipe. The good news is that you don’t have to buy small amounts of these items, as the leftover ingredients can be used for future low-sodium recipes as well! Here are the ingredients for the crust and sauce:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 3/4 cups white bread flour (can substitute up to half with whole wheat flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
- 2 cups no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can Hunt’s no-salt-added tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some spice)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
So, before heading to the store or supermarket, make sure you have these ingredients all prepared and ready to go. Once done, move on to the next section to learn how to make this delectable low sodium pizza for your cardiac college buds!
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get to the fun part – making the pizza! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a Low Sodium Pizza from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon basil
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step One: Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir well until the yeast dissolves in the water. Then, set it aside for about five minutes.
Step Two: Then add all of the dry ingredients (flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, basil, oregano) into the bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix everything very well until it forms into a ball of dough.
Step Three: Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the dough and knead it into a smooth ball. Kneading should take about ten minutes.
Step Four: Place your dough ball on a clean surface and proceed to roll it out into your desired size and thickness for your pizza crust.
Step Five: Transfer your crust to a pizza pan or baking sheet that has been lightly greased with some margarine.
Step Six: Next, carefully spread no-salt-added tomato sauce over your crust using a spatula or spoon. It is important that you do not use too much sauce as it can make your pizza soggy.
Step Seven: Sprinkle on some shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by whatever toppings you want – veggies such as mushrooms, onions, peppers or protein like Italian sausage, barbecue chicken, or pepperoni slices.
Step Eight: Finally, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over your pizza and drizzle some olive oil over it. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Viola! Your Homemade Low Sodium Pizza is ready!
Tips
- For an even healthier homemade pizza option go for whole wheat flour instead of all puprose flour.
- If you are using salted toppings such as olives or anchovies then cut back on of salt in the recipe.
- Do not overmix your dough: as soon as the ingredients are combined and your dough comes together in one ball then stop mixing.
- Don’t like tomato sauce? You can use Hunt’s no-salt-added tomato paste mixed with water instead for that great tomato flavour without too much sodium.
This low sodium pizza crust recipe is sure to become one of your favourite recipes because its ingredients are so easy
Substitutions and Variations
Variation is the spice of life, and that goes beyond our individual lives; it extends to our food choices as well. This recipe, in particular, is one that can be customized to an extraordinary extent. Here are some substitution and variation options that you can try to spice things up.
For the crust: Instead of white bread flour, go for a healthier whole wheat flour or a gluten-free option that suits your dietary restrictions. You can also opt for an ultra-thin crust if you prefer not-too-carby options. For an extra-crispy pre-made crust, try brushing with olive oil before adding sauce and toppings.
For the sauce: There are myriad ways to make low-sodium pizza sauces, and you’re at liberty to add any ingredient of your choice. You can try out a healthy pizza sauce recipe without added salt or buy Hunt’s salt-added tomato sauce or look for no-salt-added tomato paste from other brands. For a more herb-scented sauce, add some dried basil, oregano or fresh garlic.
For the toppings: It’s easy to fall into the trap of always going with the “usual suspects” when it comes to toppings – cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza or Italian sausage. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and switch things up now and then. You can try chicken pizza or barbecue chicken pizza if you prefer something more savory but still within healthy limits.
With all these enjoying variations and substitutions available, you have every reason to take this recipe on board as your go-to sodium-friendly option. Get creative and find your own favorite way of making every slice enjoyable!
Serving and Pairing
A warm, delicious slice of low sodium pizza is a comfort food that’s hard to beat. But, what do you pair with it to complete the meal? There are many options depending on the toppings you choose.
If you’ve opted for a classic cheese pizza, consider pairing it with a side salad. A crisp and refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers is an excellent accompaniment. It adds a pop of color and complements the flavors of the pizza.
On the other hand, if you’ve gone for a heartier pizza topped with meats such as Italian sausage or pepperoni, consider serving it alongside some roasted vegetables. The sweetness of roasted carrots, onions, and bell peppers contrasts well with the salty meats.
For those who enjoy a spicy kick to their pizza, adding crushed red pepper flakes on top can give your slice an added punch. You could also complement it by sipping on a cool glass of milk or iced tea. The dairy from the milk can help neutralize the spiciness while the iced tea adds some earthy aroma to the meal.
In general, low-sodium pizza pairs well with lighter sides such as fruit salads or roasted veggies without a lot of additional seasoning so that each flavor is allowed to shine. But what really matters most is putting together a combination that pleases your taste buds!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a culinary explorer, I know how important it is to plan ahead when it comes to your meals. Luckily, this low sodium pizza recipe allows for several make-ahead and storing options that’ll make meal planning a breeze.
If you’re looking to prepare the dough ahead of time, you can mix and knead the dough up to 24 hours prior to baking. Simply roll the dough out into the desired shape and allow it to rest for an hour before adding toppings and popping it in the oven.
Once you’ve baked your low sodium pizza crust, any leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider placing the pizza slice on a baking sheet and warming it up in the oven for a crispy finish. For those looking to reheat individual slices, a toaster oven or even the microwave will do the trick.
One of my top recommendations is to freeze any leftover pizza slices for future meals. This will allow for a quick and easy dinner option that requires minimal effort. All you need to do is place individually wrapped slices in freezer bags or containers and you’ll have a delicious, healthier homemade pizza ready whenever hunger strikes.
In conclusion, this low sodium pizza recipe caters even more to those who prefer a make-ahead or an easy reheating option. Keep these tips in mind while cooking, storing or reheating your low sodium pizza recipe so that you never have to worry about having something for dinner.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want a perfect low-sodium pizza crust, then follow these tips. To start with, make sure all of your ingredients are at room temperature before combining them. This helps the ingredients to blend together smoothly and ensures a consistent dough.
When making the dough, be sure to knead it for at least 10 minutes to develop the gluten in the flour. This will result in a more elastic dough that will rise properly and create a light and airy crust.
It’s important to let the dough rise for at least an hour in a warm place, covered with a damp cloth. This allows the yeast to do its job and produce carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise.
Another important tip is to use a pizza stone to bake your pizza on. The stone absorbs moisture from the dough, resulting in a crispy crust with a chewy texture. If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use an inverted baking sheet instead.
To prevent toppings from sliding off the pizza during baking, lightly dust the fully stretched-out dough with flour before adding your sauce and toppings.
When it’s time to bake your pizza, preheat your oven to its highest temperature setting. And, when transferring your pizza from the counter or peel to the stone or baking sheet, do it as quickly and as carefully as possible to prevent any slipping.
Lastly, after taking the pizza out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows for firming up and makes for easier cutting without disrupting any ingredients on top of your low-sodium pizza.
These tips may seem small but can make a great difference to perfecting this lower sodium homemade recipe so you can always enjoy your piece of slice without any guilty feelings!
FAQ
As a culinary explorer, I know that readers may have some queries or concerns about the low-sodium pizza recipe. That’s why, in this FAQ section, I’ll answer some of the common questions and give you more tips to make your cooking experience even better!
What type of pizza has the least sodium?
If you want to opt for a healthier and lower sodium option for your homemade pizzas, Golden Home Ultra Thin Crust Pizza is definitely worth considering. These crusts come pre-made in a package of three, allowing you to add your desired toppings without worrying about the crust. With only 90mg per slice, you can enjoy up to three servings per crust!
How do you reduce sodium in pizza?
Pizza is one of my all-time favorite foods, but I know it’s not always the healthiest option. However, with some smart swaps, we can turn this guilty pleasure into a nutritious and delicious meal! One of my go-to options is making a homemade pizza using a pre-baked whole-wheat crust, low-sodium pizza sauce, and light cheese like slivers of part-skim mozzarella. To add some extra nutrition, feel free to top it off with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or anything else that sparks your interest. Once completed, pop your pizza into the oven at 450° until the cheese is melted to perfection. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how tasty and nutritious this pizza can be with just a few small adjustments!
Does homemade pizza have less sodium?
Making your own pizza at home is a wise decision for a healthier meal. It offers numerous benefits such as fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Compared to frozen, delivery, or restaurant options, homemade pizza usually contains less sodium and sugar. So, why not give it a try?
Does pizza dough have sodium?
Similar to other baked goods, pizza crusts and bases often contain significant amounts of sodium. The World Health Organization has established a worldwide sodium limit of 330mg per 100g for pizza dough and crust, as of October 12, 2021.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you are looking for a low sodium pizza recipe that is both delicious and healthier than traditional options, then this recipe is the perfect choice for you. With its tasty combination of herbs and spices, and easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can make a crispy and savory low sodium pizza crust at home.
By using low-sodium ingredients such as no-salt-added tomato sauce and Hunt’s no-salt-added tomato paste, you can still enjoy the fantastic taste of pizza without compromising on your health. You can also substitute whole wheat flour into the dough recipe for a healthier twist.
Furthermore, with the various substitution options provided in this article, you can easily switch up your toppings to create your favorite pizza combinations, from classic cheese and pepperoni to tangy barbecue chicken.
So why settle for subpar store-bought or frozen pizzas when you can make a healthier homemade version that’s just as flavorful and satisfying? Give this delicious and straightforward low sodium pizza recipe a try today, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
Low Sodium Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Sauce ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Hunt's no-salt-added tomato paste
- 1 cup hunt's no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Crust ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups white bread flour
- 1 (2 1/4 teaspoon) package dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup luke warm water
Topping ingredients
- becel salt-free margarine, melted
- garlic powder
- vegetables, & meat toppings of your choice
- 1 (200 g) package pc goat's milk mozzarella cheese
- crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a small pot, mix together sauce ingredients.
- Simmer on low for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove sauce from heat and set aside to cool.
- Shred cheese, prepare vegetable and meat toppings, and set aside.
- Spray pizza pan with non stick cooking spray, and set aside.
- Stir yeast and sugar into warm water. Let sit for 8 minutes. Mixture should start to foam slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, add flour, olive oil, and yeast mixture.
- Mix until blended. In order to keep the mixture dry or moist enough to work with, you may need to add flour or water,.
- Once mixed well, form into a ball.
- On a floured surface, pick dough ball up and throw down hard several times.
- With floured hands (using as little flour as possible) kneed for 2 minutes.
- Place dough in center of pizza pan.
- Using the palm of your hand, press dough out to edges of pan.
- Thumb print outside edge of crust.
- Place pan in preheated 425 º F oven for 10 minutes, then remove.
- In a small bowl mix melted margarine and small amount of Garlic powder.
- Brush margarine and garlic mixture on outside edge of crust.
- Spread sauce, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes, then add shredded cheese, and toppings of your choice to pizza.
- Bake in pre-heated oven at 425º F for 20 to 25 minutes.
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.