Just How Many Calories Are In An 18-Inch New York Slice? A Thorough Breakdown
New Yorkers love few things more than an oversized, piping hot slice of pizza. The thin-crust 18-inch New York style pie is a classic, loaded up with cheese, sauce, and toppings.
If you’ve ever wondered just how many calories you’re consuming when you dive into one of those enormous triangles, read on. We’ll explore the origins of New York pizza, the ingredients that give it its distinctive flavor, and provide a detailed calorie count.
If you’re pressed for time, here’s a quick overview: On average, one slice from an 18-inch New York pizza contains around 320 calories.
A Brief History of New York Style Pizza
New York style pizza has become an iconic symbol of the city’s culinary scene. Its thin, crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. But how did this delicious pizza style come to be?
Let’s take a journey through the history of New York style pizza.
Lombardi’s and the Birth of NY Pizza
The story of New York style pizza begins in the early 20th century with Lombardi’s, America’s first pizzeria. Gennaro Lombardi, an Italian immigrant, opened Lombardi’s in 1905 in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood. Lombardi’s pizza quickly gained popularity, thanks to its unique style.
Lombardi’s pizza was characterized by its large, thin crust, which was crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Topped with a simple tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkling of fresh basil, Lombardi’s pizza set the standard for what would become the iconic New York slice.
Totonno’s, Grimaldi’s and the Brooklyn Slice
In the 1920s, another legendary pizzeria emerged in Brooklyn: Totonno’s. Owned by Anthony “Totonno” Pero, this pizzeria continued the tradition of thin-crust, coal-fired pizza. Totonno’s quickly became a neighborhood favorite and is still serving up delicious pizzas to this day.
Another Brooklyn institution, Grimaldi’s, also played a significant role in the development of New York style pizza. Founded in 1990, Grimaldi’s became famous for its coal-fired brick oven, which gave their pizzas a unique smoky flavor.
Their pizza, known as the “Brooklyn slice,” featured a thin, crispy crust and a perfect balance of cheese and sauce.
Modern New York Pizza Chains
While Lombardi’s, Totonno’s, and Grimaldi’s paved the way for New York style pizza, there are now numerous pizza chains in the city that continue to uphold the tradition. Some of the most well-known chains include Joe’s Pizza, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza, and Di Fara Pizza.
These modern pizza chains have their own unique twists on the classic New York slice. Some offer a variety of toppings, while others stick to the traditional cheese and tomato sauce combination. Regardless of the variations, one thing remains constant: the commitment to quality and the art of making a truly delicious New York style pizza.
For more information and a deeper dive into the history of New York style pizza, visit www.pizzamaking.com.
The Ingredients of New York Pizza
The Crust
The crust is a fundamental component of any pizza, and New York-style pizza is no exception. Known for its thin and crispy texture, the crust is typically made from high-gluten flour, water, yeast, salt, and a touch of olive oil.
This combination creates the perfect balance between chewiness and crispness that New York pizza is famous for.
The Sauce
The sauce used in New York pizza is typically made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of salt and sugar. The tomatoes are usually sourced from San Marzano, a type of tomato known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
The sauce is spread evenly over the crust, providing a flavorful and tangy base for the toppings.
Cheese and Toppings
One of the defining characteristics of New York pizza is the generous amount of cheese and toppings. Mozzarella cheese is the go-to choice for New York-style pizza, as it melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to each bite. As for the toppings, the options are endless.
From classic choices like pepperoni and mushrooms to more unique combinations like spinach and feta, New York pizza offers something for everyone’s taste buds.
It’s important to note that the calorie content of an 18-inch New York slice can vary depending on the type and amount of toppings. However, on average, a single slice of cheese pizza can contain around 300-400 calories.
When additional toppings are added, the calorie count can increase significantly. It’s always a good idea to check with the specific pizzeria for accurate nutritional information.
If you’re looking for more information on New York-style pizza or want to try making your own at home, websites like Serious Eats and Slice offer a wealth of recipes and tips from pizza experts. So why not grab a slice of New York pizza and enjoy this iconic culinary delight?
Nutritional Values of Ingredients
Flour
The first ingredient we’ll look at is the flour used to make the crust of the New York slice. Most pizzerias use high-gluten flour, which gives the crust its chewy texture. High-gluten flour is rich in protein, providing essential amino acids.
It also contains vitamins and minerals such as iron and folic acid. However, it is important to note that the calorie content of the flour itself is relatively low compared to the other ingredients.
Tomato Sauce
The tomato sauce used on a New York slice is typically made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a combination of herbs and spices. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, and they also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
The calorie content of the tomato sauce varies depending on the amount used, but it is generally low, especially when compared to the cheese and toppings.
Cheese
The cheese is what gives the New York slice its gooey, melty goodness. The most common cheese used is mozzarella, which is high in protein and calcium. However, it is also high in saturated fat and calories.
A typical 18-inch New York slice can contain anywhere from 200 to 300 calories from cheese alone. It’s important to enjoy cheese in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
Meat and Vegetable Toppings
The toppings on a New York slice can vary widely, from pepperoni and sausage to vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. These toppings add flavor and additional nutrients to the pizza. Meats like pepperoni and sausage are high in fat and calories, while vegetables are low in calories and packed with vitamins and fiber.
It’s all about finding the right balance and adding toppings that suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Calorie Count by Slice
Cheese Slice
A classic cheese slice from a New York pizzeria is a favorite among pizza lovers. But just how many calories does it contain? On average, an 18-inch cheese slice can have around 400 to 500 calories. It’s important to note that the calorie count may vary depending on the thickness of the crust and the amount of cheese used.
Pepperoni Slice
If you’re a fan of pepperoni, you might be curious about the calorie content of an 18-inch pepperoni slice. On average, a single slice topped with pepperoni can range from 450 to 600 calories. The higher end of the calorie range is usually due to the added fat content from the pepperoni slices.
Veggie Slice
For those seeking a healthier option, a veggie slice can be a great choice. Loaded with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, this slice packs in essential nutrients. In terms of calories, an 18-inch veggie slice typically contains around 350 to 450 calories.
The exact calorie count may vary depending on the specific vegetables used and the amount of cheese added.
The Works Slice
The Works slice is a pizza lover’s dream, combining various toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. With all these delicious ingredients, it’s no surprise that the calorie count can be higher compared to other slices.
On average, an 18-inch slice loaded with “The Works” can have around 550 to 700 calories.
It’s worth noting that these calorie counts are estimates and can vary depending on the specific pizzeria and their ingredients. If you’re looking for more precise information, contacting the pizzeria directly or checking their website can provide you with more accurate calorie counts for their specific pizza slices.
Strategies for Healthier Eating
When it comes to enjoying a delicious New York slice, it’s important to be mindful of your calorie intake. While indulging in a slice or two every now and then is perfectly fine, if you’re looking to make healthier choices, here are some strategies to consider:
Opt for Thin Crust
One way to cut down on the calories in your pizza slice is by opting for a thin crust. Thin crust pizzas tend to be lower in calories compared to their thick crust counterparts. The crust is where most of the calories lie, so by choosing a thinner crust, you can enjoy your slice without worrying too much about your calorie intake.
Load Up on Veggies
An excellent way to make your pizza slice healthier is by loading it up with veggies. Not only do vegetables add a burst of flavor and texture to your slice, but they also provide essential nutrients and fiber.
Try adding toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, and onions for a nutritious and satisfying pizza experience.
Split the Pie
If you find yourself craving a whole 18-inch New York slice but don’t want to consume all those calories in one sitting, consider splitting the pie with a friend or family member. This way, you can still enjoy the pizza without overindulging.
Sharing not only reduces your calorie intake but also allows you to enjoy the experience with someone else.
Go for a Walk Afterwards
After indulging in a delicious slice of pizza, why not go for a walk? Walking is a great way to burn off some of those extra calories and also aids in digestion. Taking a stroll around the block or going for a longer walk can help balance out the indulgence and keep you feeling great.
Remember, making healthier choices doesn’t mean you have to give up pizza entirely. It’s all about finding a balance and making mindful decisions. By opting for thin crust, loading up on veggies, splitting the pie, and incorporating physical activity, you can still enjoy your favorite New York slice guilt-free!
Conclusion
While an 18-inch New York slice may look like a delicious calorie bomb, a single piece averages only around 320 calories depending on toppings–not bad for such an oversized slab of pizza! Understanding the origins, ingredients and nutrition info of this iconic pie can help you indulge without overdoing it.
Next time you’re at your favorite NY pizza joint, you can confidently order an 18-inch pie knowing exactly what that mouthwatering slice will set you back calorie-wise.
