Pizza and souvlaki are both popular fast-food options that are widely consumed all around the world. While they come from different parts of the world, they both have a unique taste that remains popular among people of all ages.
However, if you are counting calories or trying to maintain a healthy diet, you might want to know which one is a healthier option for you. This article aims to provide a calorie comparison between pizza and souvlaki so that you can make an informed decision.
What is Souvlaki?
Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish that is made up of small pieces of meat, usually pork or chicken, which are marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and other herbs and spices.
The marinated meat is then skewered and grilled over charcoal to create a delicious and healthy meal. Souvlaki is usually served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and grilled vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
What is Pizza?
Pizza is an Italian dish that is made up of a flatbread base, which is topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings like vegetables, meats, and herbs. The pizza is then baked in an oven to create a mouth-watering dish that is served hot.
Pizza is available in different varieties, such as thin-crust pizza, pan pizza, deep-dish pizza, and stuffed pizza.
Calorie Comparison of Souvlaki and Pizza
When it comes to comparing the calorie content of both souvlaki and pizza, there are several factors you need to consider. Here is a breakdown of the calories in each dish:.
Calories in Souvlaki
The calories in souvlaki depend on the type of meat used and the size of the serving. On average, a serving of chicken souvlaki contains around 270 calories, while a serving of pork souvlaki contains around 330 calories.
If you add pita bread to your souvlaki, it can add an additional 150 calories per serving. Tzatziki sauce adds an extra 45 calories per serving, while grilled vegetables come in at around 35 calories per serving. Overall, a serving of chicken souvlaki with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and grilled vegetables contains around 500-600 calories.
Calories in Pizza
The calories in pizza vary depending on the type of pizza and the toppings used. A slice of regular cheese pizza contains around 240 calories, while a slice of deep-dish pizza can contain up to 400 calories.
If you add meat toppings like pepperoni or sausage, it can add an additional 100-150 calories per slice. Vegetable toppings like mushrooms, onions, and peppers are lower in calories and can add around 50 calories per slice. Overall, a large slice of pizza with cheese and meat toppings contains around 400-500 calories.
Which is a Healthier Option?
When it comes to choosing between souvlaki and pizza, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs.
Souvlaki is a healthier option compared to pizza as it contains fewer calories and is made using fresh ingredients like lean meats and vegetables. Souvlaki is also a good source of protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full for longer periods.
Pizza, on the other hand, can be high in calories, especially if you opt for deep-dish or meat-heavy toppings.
However, if you choose veggie-heavy toppings like mushrooms, onions, and peppers, pizza can be a healthier option as it contains more fiber and nutrients.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both souvlaki and pizza are delicious and popular fast-food options that can be a part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation. If you are watching your calorie intake, choosing souvlaki over pizza might be a better option.
However, if you are a pizza lover, choosing veggie-heavy toppings and limiting your portions can help keep the calories in check. No matter what you choose, always remember to balance your meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to meet your nutritional needs.