๐ [๐ฅ Must-Try!] Healthy Pizza Alternative Recipe for Middle Schoolers with Crohn's – Gentle on Digestion and Delicious!
Does your child love pizza but struggle with digestion? Regular pizza can be hard on the stomach due to high fat, gluten, and processed ingredients. But don't worry — this healthy pizza alternative is here to save the day! ๐
We've swapped regular flour for almond flour and coconut flour, making the crust gluten-free and low-carb. Plus, the toppings are easy on digestion and full of nutrients to help reduce inflammation. Your child can finally enjoy pizza night without any discomfort! ๐๐
<!--more-->๐ฅ 1. Almond Flour Pizza Crust
๐ Low-carb, gluten-free, and easy on digestion
✅ Ingredients
- Almond flour – 1 cup → Low-carb and easy to digest
- Coconut flour – 2 tablespoons → High in fiber and supports gut health
- Egg – 1 → Adds protein and helps bind the dough
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon → Anti-inflammatory and adds healthy fats
- Baking powder – 1/2 teaspoon → Helps the crust rise and become crisp
- Salt – A pinch → Enhances flavor
✅ Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the egg and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
- Place the dough on a baking sheet and flatten it into a circle about 5mm thick.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and firm.
- Let the crust cool slightly before adding toppings.
๐ 2. Easy-to-Digest Toppings
๐ Gut-friendly and anti-inflammatory ingredients
✅ Ingredients
- Tomato sauce – 2 tablespoons → Choose low-acid, no-sugar-added sauce
- Mozzarella cheese – 50g → Low-lactose and easy to digest
- Zucchini – 1/2 piece → Soft and easy on digestion
- Bell pepper – 1/4 piece → High in vitamin C for immune support
- Mushrooms (shiitake or button) – 3–4 pieces → Mild and gut-friendly
- Olives – 3–4 pieces → Healthy fats that support digestion
- Fresh basil leaves – A few → Adds a fragrant and anti-inflammatory touch
- Extra virgin olive oil – 1 teaspoon → Enhances flavor and aids digestion
✅ Instructions
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the baked crust.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Slice the zucchini and bell pepper thinly, and place them on top.
- Slice the mushrooms and olives, and add them as toppings.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil before serving.
๐ 3. Pro Tips for Taste and Digestion
✅ Alternative Toppings:
- Keep toppings light to avoid overwhelming the digestive system.
- Try low-lactose cheese or crumbled tofu for a dairy-free option.
- Add a sprinkle of oregano or thyme for extra flavor without adding acidity.
✅ Alternative Sauces:
- Swap tomato sauce with pesto or a light olive oil and garlic sauce.
- For a creamy base, try blending cooked cauliflower with a bit of olive oil and salt.
✅ Storage Tips
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- The crust can be stored separately for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- To reheat, bake at 180°C (350°F) for 3–4 minutes until warm and crisp.
❤️ A Message for Parents
"Parents, don't stress about perfection.
If your child takes even one bite and enjoys it, that's already a success. ๐"
๐ฌ Engagement Prompts
๐ Did your child enjoy this recipe? Your feedback will help other parents!
๐ If this recipe worked for your child, please share it with other parents – it might be a game-changer for them too!
๐ Do you have any tips or questions? Let us know – let's create even better meals together!
๐ A Pizza Recipe That Kids with Crohn's Can Finally Enjoy!
Crohn's disease doesn't mean missing out on pizza night! ๐
This easy-to-make, digestion-friendly pizza is packed with flavor and made with love. Give it a try and make pizza night fun and stress-free! ๐