Weight Watchers-Friendly Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of whole wheat bread or low-calorie bread
  • 4 oz lean ham (low-sodium, thinly sliced)
  • 4 oz roasted pork tenderloin (thinly sliced)
  • 4 oz reduced-fat Swiss cheese (or any low-fat cheese)
  • 1/4 cup dill pickle slices
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
  • Light mayonnaise or olive oil spray (optional for grilling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Assemble the sandwich:
    • Lay out the bread slices.
    • Spread yellow mustard on each slice of bread.
    • Layer each with 1 oz of ham, 1 oz of roasted pork tenderloin, 1 oz of reduced-fat Swiss cheese, and dill pickle slices.
    • Top with the remaining bread slices.
  3. Grill or press the sandwiches until the bread is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy Cuban Sandwich!

Weight Watchers Points:

  • Whole Wheat Bread (1 slice): ~2 points per slice (depends on brand)
  • Lean Ham (4 oz): ~3 points
  • Roasted Pork Tenderloin (4 oz): ~3 points
  • Reduced-Fat Swiss Cheese (4 oz): ~4 points
  • Yellow Mustard: 0 points
  • Light Mayonnaise (1 tsp): ~1 point (if using)
  • Total Points per Sandwich: ~8-10 points per sandwich

Tips:

  • Use Thinly Sliced Meats: Thin slices of ham and pork will give you the authentic Cuban sandwich taste while keeping the points lower.
  • Go for Low-Fat Cheese: Reduced-fat Swiss cheese offers a great flavor with fewer points.
  • Skip the Mayo or Butter: To save points, use olive oil spray for grilling instead of butter or mayonnaise.

Benefits:

  • High Protein: Lean ham and roasted pork tenderloin offer a protein-packed meal that keeps you full.
  • Lower in Fat: By using reduced-fat cheese and lean meats, the sandwich is lower in fat compared to the traditional version.
  • Fiber-Rich: Whole wheat bread adds fiber, making the sandwich more satisfying and nutritious.

Nutritional Information (per sandwich):

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Carbs: ~35g
  • Fat: ~12g
  • Fiber: ~6g
  • Weight Watchers Points: ~8-10 points per sandwich

This Weight Watchers-friendly version of the Cuban Sandwich allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of this iconic sandwich while staying on track with your health goals. It’s perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner!