Healthier Zucchini & Chia Pizza Crust

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly mist it with cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, mix the chia seeds with water and let them sit for about 10 minutes, or until a gel forms. This acts as a binder.
3. While the chia seeds are gelling, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out as much excess water as you possibly can. This step is crucial for a crisp crust!
4. In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with the prepared chia gel, ground oats, low-fat mozzarella (if using), egg, garlic powder, dried oregano, and sea salt. Mix everything well until fully combined.
5. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using the back of a spoon or your hands, spread it out evenly to form a thin, round or rectangular pizza crust shape. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
6. Bake the crust for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and feels firm to the touch. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven and how thin your crust is.
7. Carefully remove the crust from the oven. Now it’s ready for your favorite healthy toppings! Add lean protein like cooked chicken breast or turkey, plenty of vegetables (mushrooms, peppers, onions, spinach), and a small amount of additional low-fat cheese if desired.
8. Return the topped pizza to the oven and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the toppings are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for a Lighter Pizza:

• Topping Wisely: Focus on plenty of non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach, and tomatoes. For protein, choose very lean options such as grilled chicken breast, turkey mince, or even beans and lentils.
• Cheese Control: Use low-fat cheese sparingly, or opt for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Sauce Savvy: Use a low-sugar tomato-based pizza sauce. You can even make your own by blending canned diced tomatoes with herbs and spices.
• Serving Size: Divide the pizza into appropriate serving sizes to manage your intake.

Enjoy your delicious and healthier homemade pizza!