Denise Austin’s Veggie Flatbread Pizza Recipe

We’re already two weeks into the New Year and some of us are already struggling with our resolution to lose weight. By the end of January, close to 40% of folks will have quit their weight loss plan. Don’t give up! Fitness and health icon Denise Austin has launched a new 10-week online program (www.deniseaustin.com) to help us shed up to 25 pounds. And, after three decades in the wellness industry, Denise knows what she’s talking about. She stopped by Access Hollywood Live to share eating well tips and one of her favorite stay-slim recipes.

Sausage & Veggie Flatbread Pizza

(serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp. olive oil
• 1 link turkey or chicken sausage
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups spinach
• ¼ tsp. black pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• 2 whole-grain wraps or tortillas
• ¼ cup jarred marinara or pizza sauce
• ½ cup shredded reduced-fat cheese

Denise Austin’s veggie flatbread pizza with salad (Denise Austin)

Preheat oven to 350-degrees. In small skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into skillet and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate and return the skillet to the heat. Add garlic and saute for about 30 seconds. Add the mushrooms and saute until soft, about five minutes. Add the spinach and saute until wilted, about 3 minutes. Add the pepper and pinch of red pepper flakes.

Lay both wraps on a large baking sheet. Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the wraps. Divide the sautéed vegetables and the cooked sausage evenly between the two pizzas. Place the baking sheet in oven for 8 minutes, or until the wrap gets crisp. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the two pizzas and bake for another 3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Serve pizza with 2 cups of mixed greens and Denise’s Everyday Dressing.