The School Pizza Recipe: A Weight Watchers-Friendly Version
Introduction:
Reimagine a classic favorite with our Weight Watchers-friendly School Pizza recipe. This beloved dish, reminiscent of cafeteria-style pizza, can be adapted to fit within your WW plan without sacrificing flavor. Our recipe transforms the traditional pizza crust into a lower-point version, making it easier to enjoy a satisfying slice while staying on track with your wellness goals. Below you’ll find a detailed, step-by-step guide to crafting a delicious and WW-friendly School Pizza.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour (choose a whole-wheat or high-fiber flour for a lower-point option)
3/4 cup powdered milk (use non-fat powdered milk to keep points lower)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or a WW-friendly sweetener substitute)
1 package quick rise yeast (typically 2-1/4 teaspoons)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste preference)
For the Sauce:
1 cup tomato sauce (opt for a no-sugar-added variety to minimize points)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (for seasoning)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil (for additional flavor)
1 clove garlic, minced (optional, for a richer taste)
Salt and pepper to taste (adjust according to preference)
For the Toppings:
1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese (for a lower point cheese option)
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (choose a low-fat or turkey variety for fewer points)
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (for added nutrition and flavor)
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional, for extra veggies)
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional, adjust points accordingly)
Nutritional Information:
Per Serving (assuming 8 servings):
Calories: 220
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Net Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints:
Freestyle: 6 points per slice
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2-2/3 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of non-fat powdered milk, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar (or a WW-friendly sweetener), 1 package of quick rise yeast (about 2-1/4 teaspoons), and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir the ingredients together until evenly distributed.
Add Water: Gradually add 1-1/2 cups of warm water (110°F or 45°C) to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of additional flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
Let the Dough Rise:
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature helps achieve a crispy crust.
Prepare the Pizza Sauce:
Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of no-sugar-added tomato sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, and minced garlic (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.
Assemble the Pizza:
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a 12-inch round or desired shape. Place the rolled dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone lightly coated with non-stick spray.
Spread the Sauce: Evenly spread the prepared pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle 1 cup of reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add desired toppings, such as 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni, 1/2 cup of sliced bell peppers, 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms, and 1/4 cup of sliced black olives.
Bake the Pizza:
Cooking Time: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the pizza towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Cool and Slice:
Cooling: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
Slice: Once slightly cooled, cut the pizza into 8 slices or your preferred portion size.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serving: Serve warm as a satisfying meal or snack. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Useful Tips:
Dough Texture: If the dough is too sticky or too dry, adjust by adding small amounts of flour or water, respectively, until you achieve the desired consistency.
Topping Variations: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences or dietary needs. Opt for more vegetables or lean proteins to keep the SmartPoints low.
Crust Options: For an even lower-point crust, consider using a cauliflower or zucchini base instead of traditional dough.
Variations:
Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add more vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or onions for a vegetarian version.
BBQ Chicken Pizza: Use shredded cooked chicken and a barbecue sauce base instead of tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.
Health Benefits:
Whole-Wheat Flour: Opt for whole-wheat flour to increase the fiber content, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you full longer.
Reduced-Fat Cheese: Using reduced-fat cheese helps to lower the overall fat and calorie content while still providing that cheesy goodness.
Serving Suggestions:
Meal Pairings: This pizza pairs well with a light side salad or a fresh vegetable platter. Consider adding a serving of fruit for a complete meal.
Occasions: Perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or as a fun weekend meal. It’s also suitable for meal prepping and freezing for later use.
Conclusion:
Our Weight Watchers-friendly School Pizza recipe offers a delicious and lower-point alternative to traditional pizza. By using reduced-fat ingredients and making smart substitutions, you can enjoy a satisfying pizza slice that fits within your WW plan. With detailed instructions and helpful tips, this recipe is designed to help you create a flavorful and nutritious meal that everyone will love.
Additional Notes:
Preparation Time: The total preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional 12-15 minutes for baking. Allow time for the dough to rise and the pizza to cool before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences. Substituting with WW-friendly options ensures you stay on track while enjoying your meal.
With these comprehensive instructions, you can prepare a delicious School Pizza that fits perfectly into your Weight Watchers plan. Enjoy every slice of this tasty, low-point pizza and savor the flavors of a classic favorite in a healthier way.