Now that I’m living in an Independent Living Unit and meal-plan-free, I have to provide for myself like an adult. One struggle that I have is coming up with quick healthy meals I can make without burning down Brinser. I bring to you a simple and cost-effective meal idea: pizza.
Pizza is the college go-to for any Friday night. Of course, you could go to Etown’s classic Brothers Pizza or Dominos which are just five minutes from campus. However, if you’re on a tight budget, buying the ingredients at the supermarket will save you time and money. All you need is a pre-made crust, a jar of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. If you want to go classic and make the dough from scratch you have to grab a few more ingredients and take a few more steps.
Simply follow the instructions on the packaging for the crust. Typically, you have to preheat the oven to 375°F. While it’s preheating, coat a pan with non-stick spray and spread the crust on the pan. Then, spoon out the red sauce onto the crust, Leaving about an inch around the edge. You can use the back of the spoon to help spread the sauce around easily. Of course, put on as much as you want. Next sprinkle on the cheese, again, using as much as you want. I personally like to sprinkle some cheese on the crust. Pop the pizza in for a few minutes. The crust instructions should help with that. Once it’s done, pull it out of the oven and let it cool. Slice it up, serve and enjoy!
Obviously, this pizza is a blank canvas. If you’re looking for something greasier, add pepperoni, ham, sausage and bacon for a meat lover’s pizza. Want to be a little healthier? Add peppers, onions, baby tomatoes and spinach.
Of course, you have infinite possibilities for toppings. I personally like to put some spices on the crust before I stick it in the oven. I put basil, black pepper and garlic powder around the edge.
Also, you can change up your pizza just with the ingredients. You can get a thicker crust or use cauliflower crust to get a different texture. You can sprinkle some cheese on the edge and roll the crust inward for a stuffed crust. Also, feel free to buy different sauces and shredded cheese.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with new flavors. If worse comes to worst, use Google to come up with new ideas and recipes.
