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Tuna and Arugula Pizza Topped with Lemon Zest and Ricotta Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on November 26, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

Are you tired of the same old pizza options? Craving something fresh, nutritious, and absolutely delicious?

Introducing Tuna and Arugula Pizza—a delightful white pizza topped with savory tuna, peppery arugula, zesty lemon, and creamy ricotta. This recipe not only satisfies your pizza cravings but also aligns beautifully with your weight loss goals.

Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details of this unique dish!

Why Choose Tuna and Arugula Pizza?

Pizza often gets a bad rap when it comes to health and weight loss. However, with the right ingredients, it can be a nourishing meal that fuels your body without the guilt. Here’s why this Tuna and Arugula Pizza stands out:

  1. Packed with Protein: Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein. A 3-ounce serving of tuna contains about 25 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein also helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of snacking later on.
  2. Nutrient-Rich Toppings: Arugula is not just a pretty garnish; it’s loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron. In fact, just one cup of arugula contains about 5 calories, making it a fantastic addition to any weight loss meal.
  3. Healthy Fats: By using ricotta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, you’re adding healthy fats that promote satiety and flavor without excessive calories. Incorporating healthy fats into your diet can help you manage your appetite better.

The Health Benefits of Tuna and Arugula

Incorporating tuna and arugula into your diet can provide a range of health benefits. Here’s a closer look at what these ingredients bring to the table:

Tuna

Tuna is not only a high-protein food but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are known to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and even improve brain function.

Moreover, tuna is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for weight loss. According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of canned tuna in water has about 100 calories.

Arugula

Arugula, a leafy green often overlooked, is a powerhouse of nutrition. This vibrant green is a cruciferous vegetable, which means it’s part of the same family as broccoli and kale. Cruciferous vegetables are known for their cancer-fighting properties.

A study published in Nutrients found that increasing the intake of leafy greens can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

A Flavorful Twist with Lemon Zest

Lemon zest adds a burst of freshness and brightness to your pizza. It enhances the overall flavor profile without adding any calories. Plus, lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.

A single lemon contains about 31 milligrams of vitamin C, or roughly 34% of the recommended daily intake.

The Perfect Recipe: Tuna and Arugula Pizza

Ready to whip up this delightful pizza? Here’s a step-by-step recipe that will guide you through creating your own Tuna and Arugula Pizza at home.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, to feed the yeast)

For the Toppings:

  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

  • Mix the Tuna and Lemon: In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to break up the tuna without mashing it completely.
  • Prepare the Ricotta: In a separate bowl, season the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can add a little lemon zest to the ricotta for extra flavor if desired.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

  • Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. If you like a thin crust, roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Add the Ricotta: Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
  • Top with Tuna: Carefully spoon the tuna mixture over the ricotta layer.
  • Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the hot pizza stone). Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Step 5: Finish with Arugula

Once the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately scatter the fresh arugula on top. The residual heat will wilt the arugula slightly, making it perfect. Finally, sprinkle with lemon zest and, if desired, a few red pepper flakes for some extra spice.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice your Tuna and Arugula Pizza and serve it hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing meal.

Tips for Perfect Pizza

  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other toppings like olives, capers, or artichokes for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Dough Variations: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought whole wheat pizza dough.
  • Make It a Meal Prep: This pizza can be made in advance. Simply reheat in the oven before serving to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

A Guilt-Free Indulgence

Tuna and Arugula Pizza is a fantastic way to indulge in a classic favorite while keeping your health goals in check. With its protein-packed tuna, nutrient-rich arugula, and creamy ricotta, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious.

The vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. So, the next time you’re in the mood for pizza, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!