Are you a pizza lover? Do you ever wonder how many calories you consume with each slice? A standard 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 1586 calories. But fear not, we'll explore the pizza's nutritional information in the following sections to help you make informed choices.
Marinara pizza is a classic pizza that is topped with tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. As the name suggests, it originates from the Italian coastal town of Naples, where it was first created in the 18th century. Although it is a delicious treat, it is also loaded with various macronutrients and micronutrients.
In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional breakdown, health benefits, and tips for making Marinara pizza a healthier option for you.
Calorie Breakdown of Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 1586 calories. The calories are distributed among various macronutrients, with the majority coming from carbohydrates and fats. Carbohydrates make up 52% of the total calorie count, while fats contribute to 35% of the calories. Proteins, on the other hand, account for only 13% of the total calorie count. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of your portion size when indulging in a Marinara pizza.
Fat Content of Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 62 grams of fat. The majority of this fat comes from the cheese and olive oil used in the preparation of the pizza. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase your risk of heart disease and other health issues. Therefore, it is important to choose a healthier cheese option, such as low-fat mozzarella or feta cheese, and use less olive oil while preparing the pizza.
Cholesterol Levels in Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 90 milligrams of cholesterol. High levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. To reduce the amount of cholesterol in your pizza, opt for a vegetable-based topping such as mushrooms or peppers, and limit the amount of meat toppings.
Carbohydrate Content of Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 207 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the crust and tomato sauce used in the preparation of the pizza. To make your pizza healthier, consider using a whole-wheat crust, which is higher in fiber and nutrition than a standard white flour crust. You can also top your pizza with various vegetables to increase its nutritional value.
Protein Content of Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 51 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as for maintaining a healthy immune system. To increase the protein content of your pizza, consider adding chicken, shrimp, or tofu as toppings.
Fiber Content of Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 10 grams of fiber. Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system and can also help reduce cholesterol levels. To increase the fiber content of your pizza, choose a whole-wheat crust, and add toppings such as vegetables or beans that are high in fiber.
Sodium Levels in Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains approximately 3200 milligrams of sodium. High sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues. To reduce the sodium levels in your pizza, limit the amount of cheese and cured meats or consider using herbs and spices instead of salt as a seasoning.
Vitamins and Minerals in Marinara Pizza
A 12" dia Marinara pizza contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. To increase the nutritional value of your pizza, consider topping it with various vegetables that are high in vitamins and minerals, such as spinach or bell peppers.
Health Benefits of Marinara Pizza
Marinara pizza can provide various health benefits, such as improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and boosting immune function. Tomatoes used in the preparation of the pizza are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can prevent oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Garlic and olive oil used in the preparation of pizza can also provide various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and boosting immune function.
Tips for Making a Healthier Marinara Pizza
Here are some tips for making a healthier Marinara pizza:
- Use a whole-wheat crust instead of a standard white flour crust to increase the fiber and nutrition content of the pizza.
- Choose low-fat cheese options, such as low-fat mozzarella or feta cheese, to reduce the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in your pizza.
- Opt for vegetable-based toppings such as mushrooms, peppers, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the pizza.
- Use herbs and spices instead of salt as a seasoning to reduce the sodium content of the pizza.
- Consider adding protein-rich toppings such as chicken or tofu to increase the protein content of the pizza.
Pizza is a lot like sex. When it's bad, it's still pretty good.
FAQs About 12" Marinara Pizza with 1586 calories
1. How many slices are in a 12" marinara pizza?
A 12" marinara pizza typically has 8 slices, but it may vary depending on the pizzeria.
2. What is in the marinara pizza?
Marinara pizza usually consists of tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and sometimes basil. Some pizzerias may add cheese or other toppings.
3. How many calories are in a 12" marinara pizza?
A 12" marinara pizza typically has around 1586 calories, but the calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients and how much is consumed.
4. Is marinara pizza a healthy option?
Marinara pizza can be a healthier option compared to other pizzas as it usually has less cheese and is lower in fat. However, it is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.
5. Can I make my own marinara pizza at home?
Yes, you can make your own marinara pizza at home by using store-bought or homemade dough, spreading marinara sauce, and adding any desired toppings. Bake in the oven at 425°F for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is crispy.