6 Points Delicious Italian Stromboli Recipe

Delicious Italian Stromboli Recipe for Weight Watchers Freestyle! Are you craving an Italian delight that won’t ruin your diet? Look no further! Our Italian Stromboli recipe is tailored for the Weight Watchers Freestyle program, offering a delicious, satisfying meal without the guilt. Let’s dive into this culinary journey where taste meets healthy eating.

What is Stromboli?

Stromboli, a popular Italian-American dish, is essentially a rolled-up pizza. Imagine all the goodness of a pizza – cheese, meats, and vegetables – wrapped in a doughy embrace. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to fit various dietary needs, making it perfect for Weight Watchers.

Why Choose a Weight Watchers Freestyle Stromboli?

The Weight Watchers Freestyle program emphasizes flexibility and encourages healthy eating habits. By choosing this Stromboli recipe, you’re not just indulging in a tasty meal but also sticking to your weight loss goals. It’s a win-win!

Ingredients for Italian Stromboli

For the Dough:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 packet of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 3/4 cup of warm water
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup of marinara sauce
• 1 cup of part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup of sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup of sliced onions
• 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup of turkey pepperoni slices
• Fresh basil leaves
• Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water and olive oil to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

2. Preparing the Filling:

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling ingredients.
2. Slice the bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
3. Shred the mozzarella cheese.

3. Assembling the Stromboli:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and turkey pepperoni.
6. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and Italian seasoning.

4. Rolling and Baking:

1. Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, sealing the edges as you go.
2. Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Make a few slits on top of the roll to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the Stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Nutritional Benefits of Our Weight Watchers Freestyle Stromboli

Low in Points, High in Flavor:

This Stromboli recipe is crafted to be low in Weight Watchers points, making it an ideal choice for those following the Freestyle program. With lean turkey pepperoni and part-skim mozzarella, you’re enjoying a high-protein, lower-fat meal.

Packed with Vegetables:

Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal, enhancing its nutritional profile.

Healthy Carbohydrates:

Using all-purpose flour in the dough provides the necessary carbohydrates to keep you energized without overloading on calories.

Tips for a Perfect Stromboli

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:

Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor and nutrition.

2. Don’t Overload with Fillings:

While it’s tempting to pack your Stromboli with all your favorite ingredients, too much filling can make it difficult to roll and bake evenly.

3. Let it Cool:

Allowing the Stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing ensures that the cheese sets and doesn’t ooze out.

Customizing Your Stromboli

1. Vegetarian Option:

Replace the turkey pepperoni with extra vegetables like spinach, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian version.

2. Spicy Kick:

Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy twist.

3. Different Cheeses:

Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone to vary the flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. Can I freeze the Stromboli?

Absolutely! After baking, let the Stromboli cool completely, then wrap it in foil and freeze. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

3. How do I prevent the Stromboli from getting soggy?

Ensure the vegetables are not overly wet and don’t overload with sauce. Pre-cooking the vegetables slightly can help reduce moisture.

4. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly if you’re short on time.

5. How do I reheat leftover Stromboli?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave to maintain the crispy texture.