How to Make a Healthy Calzone
By Brandi Swieter
National Calzone Day arrives in the beginning of November. Just because only one day a year is dedicated to the food doesn't mean it can't be enjoyed on other occasions though. These tasty pizzas-on-the-go aren't the healthiest meal choices, but they can be made healthier with a few substitutions.
Make it Homemade
Buying a calzone from a local pizza place isn't the smartest option. Many come loaded with toppings and are full of sodium. Making it homemade is a better way to ensure a healthier version is consumed.
Use Low-Fat Cheese
A low-fat version of cheese should be used instead of a fattening kind. Just one type is all that's needed as well. Many people try for three cheese blends, but these contain far too much fat and calories. Real mozzarella is one of the best to use.
Load it With Veggies
Skip the all meat or pepperoni calzones and opt for a veggie version instead. Adding more vegetables to the mix will help boost the nutrition factor and make the meal more worthwhile. Green peppers and onions make great additions along with mushrooms and olives.
Use a Whole Grain Dough
The dough used for the outer shell of the calzone is where a lot of the problems lie. Using white flour is incredibly unhealthy. It also creates a high-calorie food. It's best to use whole wheat flour for a homemade whole grain dough that provides more nutrition and less fat.
Limit the Sauce
Too much sauce is another problem for the calzone and other pizza products. Many sauces contain far too much sodium and are unhealthy to consume in excess. It's best to limit the amount of sauce used inside. A homemade version with fresh ingredients is also beneficial.
Eat a Smaller Version
A large calzone typically served at pizza places is more than a single serving. Try making a smaller version or cutting one in half for better portion control. This prevents overeating and ensures fewer calories are consumed. A small version is just enough to get a taste for the treat without overdoing it. If it's loaded with low-fat cheese and veggies as well, then it should fill a person up enough to curb their hunger. It contains plenty of protein and nutrients to do so.
Calzones can be enjoyed any time of year as long as they're made a little healthier than usual. The on-the-go version of pizza provides plenty of nutrition if it's packed with the right ingredients. Make one homemade and enjoy the delicious meal.
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