Did you know sometimes the pizza aisle at a grocery store can actually help you when in a tough spot? I often talk about the importance of simplicity as a concept in Italian cooking and recipes, but I also try and find simple ways to eat well while on a fiscally responsible budget. This is often not easy when in a bind, and the idea of picking up the phone to have a pizza delivered sure gets tempting despite the cost and health factor. But… I have a backup plan that I actually used today and want to share.
First purchase some plain pizzas.
Next time at a grocery store, look for some plain pizzas, nothing fancy. I like Tony’s or other similar brand. I do not get the major brands like Red Baron for this because it is too greasy and too expensive for a budget friendly solution. It is good to stock up on a bunch of these plain Jane pizzas when on sale (about $1.99 each). 1 pizza plus a side salad provides a fairly good portion for my husband and I. So for a family of 6, use 3 pizzas or serve with a side of quick pasta.
Next, beef up with toppings.
You can really turn a pizza around just by adding a few toppings. Simply use what you have on hand for toppings. Here are some suggestions of veggies which you might find in your pantry or fridge. Thinly sliced red onion is always good to add. Try roasted bell peppers from a jar, maybe some artichokes (from a jar), green peppers (if you like green peppers) and how about some mushrooms or canned black olives? Have some tomatoes? Slice them very thin and add them on. Don’t want to use pepperoni or sausage? Try some chicken sausage or soy peperoni which is really good depending on brand.
Tip: Think of all the toppings you are offered when you customize a pizza when ordering out to help generate ideas. Banana peppers and jalapeno peppers come to mind right away.
Make it a family affair.
For a suggestion to involve kids, have each child suggest and prepare their own favorite topping. Be creative and if someone wants something out of the norm, have fun and give it a try. Just remember to leave some not so crazy areas on the pizza for the less creative!
Before you know it, you’ve got a super deluxe pizza (or pizzas) for a fraction of the price and 1/2 the time it would take to order out. Always if possible serve with a healthy salad or fruit to eat at the end of the meal. This helps the food settle in the stomach and not weigh you down.
So there you have it. Stock up when those pizzas are on sale, keep them as backup in the freezer and pull them out when in a bind. Hope you enjoyed this tip and feel free to share your own.
Liz
Simple Italian Cooking Recipes
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