Homemade Stromboli: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both indulgent and Weight Watchers-friendly? Look no further than Homemade Stromboli! This easy-to-make, healthier version of the traditional Italian classic is filled with lean protein, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a light, golden-brown crust. Perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together, this stromboli is a great way to enjoy a comforting favorite without straying from your healthy eating plan.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (whole wheat or low-calorie dough for fewer points)
• 6 oz lean turkey pepperoni (or your choice of lean deli meats)
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (low-sodium for fewer points)
• 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle or oval shape, about 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. Make sure the dough is even and smooth to ensure an even bake.

3. Assemble the Stromboli

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the center of the dough, leaving about 1 inch around the edges. Layer the turkey pepperoni (or deli meats of your choice) over the sauce, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped bell peppers, onions, and a sprinkle of garlic powder and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Roll the Stromboli

Carefully fold in the sides of the dough, then roll the stromboli from the bottom up to enclose the fillings. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the stromboli and prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. You can tuck the ends of the dough in for a neat appearance.

5. Prepare for Baking

Transfer the stromboli onto the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg to make an egg wash, then brush the top of the stromboli with the egg mixture to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked.

6. Bake the Stromboli

Place the stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden-brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside. Keep an eye on the crust to avoid over-baking.

7. Slice and Serve

Once baked, remove the stromboli from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired. Optionally, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 280-320
• WW Points: 6-7 points per serving (depending on specific ingredients used)
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 16g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Low-Point Comfort Food: Stromboli is the perfect indulgent comfort food, and with this lighter version, you don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying it. It’s a great way to satisfy pizza cravings without straying from your Weight Watchers points.
2. Customizable Fillings: This stromboli recipe is super versatile. You can swap out the turkey pepperoni for lean ham, chicken, or even vegetarian ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to fit your dietary preferences.
3. Easy to Make: Despite its impressive look, homemade stromboli is surprisingly easy to assemble. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a meal that looks like it came straight from a pizzeria but with far fewer calories and points.
4. Family-Friendly: Stromboli is a great meal for the whole family to enjoy, and it’s easy to cut into slices to serve as a meal or an appetizer for gatherings. Even kids love the cheesy, flavorful filling!

Pro Tips:

• Make It Ahead: Stromboli is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy it.
• Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes to the filling. This will increase the fiber content and make it even more filling.
• Crispier Crust: If you prefer a crispier crust, try baking the stromboli on a pizza stone, or place it directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes of baking.
• Use Whole Wheat Dough: For an even healthier option, use whole wheat pizza dough for additional fiber and nutrients, which will help keep you full longer.

This Weight Watchers Homemade Stromboli is the perfect balance of flavor and healthiness, allowing you to indulge in a cheesy, hearty meal without the extra calories. Packed with lean protein, veggies, and a golden, crispy crust, it’s a meal the entire family will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and highly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a fun dish for your next gathering, this homemade stromboli will quickly become a go-to recipe in your healthy eating rotation.