Savor Delicious & Healthy: Low-Point Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones Recipe
Discover a delightful way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite without derailing your health goals! These Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones are a fantastic option, clocking in at just 4 WW points per serving, and they are incredibly flavorful and satisfying. If calzones aren’t a regular feature in your meal rotation, it’s time to change that. Imagine a perfectly portable pizza pocket, generously filled with your favorite ingredients – meats, cheeses, fresh vegetables, or savory sauces. This particular recipe takes a light and fresh Caprese approach, showcasing creamy mozzarella, juicy, vibrant tomatoes, and aromatic sweet basil for a truly exquisite and guilt-free experience. The combination of warm, melted mozzarella, with the burst of fresh tomatoes and a wonderfully crispy crust, is absolutely divine, especially when paired with a side of rich marinara sauce for dipping.
We’ve intentionally designed this Caprese calzone recipe to be on the lighter side, ensuring the base of your meal remains low in points and remarkably low in fat (only 0.6g of fat per serving!). This makes it incredibly versatile for pairing with a variety of healthy side dishes. Consider serving them alongside a crisp chicken Caesar salad, a plate of perfectly oven-roasted asparagus, or a refreshing Italian chopped salad. Alternatively, you can pack more ingredients directly into the calzones, eliminating the need for a separate side dish. This is a popular method in my household – everyone loves customizing their own fillings! Whether you crave extra vegetables, a bit more cheese, or a hearty portion of lean meat, these customizable calzones ensure everyone leaves the table completely satisfied.
What makes these Weight Watchers calzones truly special is the homemade dough. We’re talking about the famous low-point, high-protein Greek yogurt dough that has become a staple for healthy baking enthusiasts! This dough is a game-changer, making the entire recipe even more appealing. There’s simply so much to love about this dish. The Caprese-style calzone is an ideal choice for a light summer meal or whenever you’re craving the comforting taste of pizza without the heavy feeling. It strikes the perfect balance between cheesy, comforting goodness and bright, refreshing herbaceous flavors, making it a meal you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Why You Should Try This Easy & Healthy Calzone Recipe
If you’re looking for a new go-to recipe that’s both delicious and aligns with your healthy lifestyle, these Caprese calzones are an absolute must-try. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your weekly meal plan:
- You’ll love the individual portions. Calzones are inherently portion-controlled, making them incredibly easy to track for Weight Watchers and other mindful eating plans. Each person gets their own perfectly sized, delicious serving, which helps prevent overeating and makes meal prep a breeze. They’re also perfect for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
- These calzones are made entirely from scratch! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of homemade food, knowing exactly what ingredients go into every bite. By making these calzones from scratch, you ensure they are free from the artificial preservatives and excessive sodium often found in store-bought or frozen versions. Plus, the fresh ingredients and homemade dough contribute to a far superior taste and texture that simply can’t be matched by pre-made options.
- Easy enough for anyone to make. Don’t let the idea of homemade dough intimidate you! This recipe utilizes the popular Greek yogurt dough, which is incredibly forgiving and requires no yeast at all. This means you skip the lengthy proofing process typically associated with bread making, significantly cutting down on prep time. Even if you’re a novice baker, you’ll find this dough simple to prepare and easy to work with, leading to perfectly golden and delicious calzones every time.
Recipe Overview & Nutrition for Your Weight Watchers Journey
Get all the essential details for planning and enjoying these delightful Caprese Calzones. We’ve optimized this recipe for both flavor and nutritional balance, making it a fantastic choice for those following Weight Watchers or simply looking for a healthier meal option.
- Serving Size: Each recipe yields 1 large, satisfying calzone, weighing approximately 203g. This generous portion ensures you feel full and content without overindulging.
- Number of Servings: This recipe is designed to make 4 individual calzones, perfect for a family dinner or for preparing several meals in advance for the week.
- Time to Cook: From start to finish, these calzones bake to perfection in just 22-27 minutes, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- WW Points Per Recipe: Each serving (1 calzone) is a low 4 WW points, with the entire recipe totaling 17 points. This makes it an incredibly Weight Watchers-friendly option. (Click here to view the recipe in the WW app. A Weight Watchers login is required to access.)
Essential Ingredients for Your Healthy Caprese Calzones
Crafting these delicious and healthy Caprese calzones requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients. The star of the show is the high-protein Greek yogurt dough, which keeps the points low and satisfaction high. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ¼ cup Self-rising flour (or easily make your own, see variations!)
- 1 cup Nonfat plain Greek yogurt (the secret to our low-point, high-protein dough!)
- 1 ⅓ cup Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered (fresh and juicy for that authentic Caprese flavor)
- ½ cup Fat-free mozzarella shreds (for cheesy goodness without the extra fat)
- To taste Table salt (to enhance all the fresh flavors)
- ½ tsp Dried thyme (adds an earthy, aromatic note)
- 2 tbsp Fresh basil, chopped (essential for the classic Caprese taste)
- ¼ tsp Garlic powder (for a subtle savory kick)
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping (a perfect complement to the baked calzones)
- Optional: Spicy Italian sausage or other cooked lean meat (for a heartier version, remember to adjust WW points)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones
Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious and healthy Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones. The Greek yogurt dough is incredibly simple to work with, making this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your calzones bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Make the Greek Yogurt Dough: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of the self-rising flour with the nonfat plain Greek yogurt. Mix well. If the dough feels too sticky to handle, gradually add up to 2 tablespoons more of flour until it forms a cohesive, slightly tacky but manageable ball. Gently knead the dough inside the bowl for a minute or two until it comes together smoothly. Once formed, divide the dough into 4 equal portions – these will be your individual calzone bases.
- Roll Out the Dough: Use the remaining measured flour to lightly dust your work surface and your rolling pin to prevent sticking. For best results and easiest handling, I highly recommend rolling the dough between two pieces of parchment paper. Roll each of the four dough portions into large circles, aiming for about 6-8 inches in diameter and an even thickness of about ¼ inch.
4. Prepare the Caprese Filling: In another bowl, combine the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes, table salt (to taste), dried thyme, and freshly chopped basil. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if needed – perhaps a little more salt or a pinch of garlic powder for extra zest. Finally, add the fat-free mozzarella shreds and gently stir again to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the tomato and herb mixture.
5. Fill and Seal Your Calzones: Carefully spoon an equal amount of the Caprese filling onto one half of each of the four dough circles, leaving a small border around the edge for sealing. If desired, this is the time to add any optional toppings like cooked spicy Italian sausage or other lean meats. Once filled, gently fold the empty half of each dough circle over the filling to create a perfect semicircle. To seal, firmly pinch the edges of the dough all the way around, creating a secure seam. For extra assurance, you can use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges. If the dough seems reluctant to stick to itself, a tiny bit of water applied to the edges before pinching can help it adhere effectively.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection: For an extra golden-brown and slightly crispy crust, you can optionally brush the tops of each calzone with a beaten egg white (one egg white should be sufficient for all four). Place the prepared calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in your preheated oven for 22-27 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and thoroughly baked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning.
7. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, ideally with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. These are perfect for a satisfying meal!
Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions for Your Calzones
One of the best aspects of this calzone recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and customize your fillings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fantastic variations and substitutions to inspire you:
- Calzones with Ricotta Cheese: For a creamier and richer filling, swap out some or all of the fat-free mozzarella with ricotta cheese. Remember that ricotta is denser than shredded mozzarella, so you might not need the full ½ cup. Start with about ¼ to ⅓ cup and adjust to your liking, ensuring the filling isn’t too wet.
- Calzones with Store-bought Dough: If you’re short on time, pre-made pizza dough from the grocery store is a convenient alternative. Simply follow the package instructions for rolling and baking. Be sure to use the Weight Watchers recipe builder to determine the new point value, as store-bought dough will likely alter the overall points per serving.
- AP Flour Conversion: No self-rising flour on hand? No problem! You can easily make your own by combining all-purpose (AP) flour with a few leavening agents. For every 1 cup of AP flour, whisk in ¼ tsp of table salt and 1 ½ tsp of baking powder. Then, use this mixture in the recipe just as you would self-rising flour.
- Save a Point: Looking to reduce the Weight Watchers points even further? You can make slightly smaller calzones by dividing the dough into 5 equal sections instead of 4. This simple adjustment will reduce the WW points to approximately 3 points per calzone, allowing you to enjoy an extra treat or simply save points.
- Other Yummy Mix-Ins: Don’t feel restricted to the Caprese theme! Calzones are incredibly versatile. Experiment with a variety of cooked, lean meats like diced chicken breast, lean turkey pepperoni, or seasoned ground Italian sausage. For vegetables, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, finely diced onions, colorful bell peppers, or fresh spinach. Other delicious additions could include black olives, artichoke hearts, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. The possibilities are endless – modify the recipe to your heart’s content!
Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Homemade Weight Watchers Calzones
Achieving perfectly baked, delicious calzones every time is easier than you think with these helpful tips and tricks. From preventing leaks to reheating leftovers, these insights will ensure your homemade Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones are a resounding success:
- Don’t Overstuff: If you’re incorporating additional fillings, especially meats or wet vegetables, be mindful not to overstuff the calzones. Too much filling can cause the dough to split open during baking, leading to messy leaks. It’s often a good idea to slightly reduce the amount of tomatoes or other high-moisture ingredients if you’re adding extra bulk. A balanced filling ensures an intact and delicious calzone.
- Sauce Inside (Use Caution): While you can add a small amount of sauce inside the calzone, exercise caution. Too much liquid can make the dough soggy and prevent the calzone from baking through properly, resulting in a dense or undercooked center. If you prefer sauce inside, use a thick marinara sparingly or consider a pesto spread for flavor without excessive moisture.
- How to Store Leftover Calzones: These calzones make fantastic leftovers! To store, allow them to cool completely. Individually wrap each calzone tightly in aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating for Best Results: When reheating, avoid the microwave as it tends to make the dough tough and chewy. For optimal results, reheat your calzones in an oven or air fryer. In the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy again. In an air fryer, heat at 325°F (160°C) for 5-8 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your calzones after about 15 minutes of baking. If you notice the tops are already a beautiful golden brown but suspect the underside or interior might still be a bit doughy, loosely cover the calzones with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. This prevents the top from burning while allowing the rest of the calzone to cook through.
- Perfect Dough Consistency: The Greek yogurt dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If your dough is too dry and crumbly, add a tiny bit more Greek yogurt, a teaspoon at a time, until it comes together. If it’s too sticky, incorporate a little more self-rising flour as you knead.
- Ensure a Tight Seal: A well-sealed calzone prevents filling from leaking out. Beyond pinching with your fingers or a fork, you can also try folding the edge over itself and rolling it to create a rope-like crust, pressing firmly to seal. This also adds a nice decorative touch.
- Ventilation is Key: Before baking, consider making two or three small slits on the top of each calzone with a sharp knife. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the calzones from puffing up excessively and potentially bursting, while also ensuring a crispier crust.
More Delicious & Healthy Recipes to Explore
If you loved these Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones, you’re sure to enjoy these other healthy and satisfying recipes perfect for your Weight Watchers journey. Expand your culinary repertoire with these related delights:
Breakfast Stromboli: A Savory Start to Your Day
Homemade Weight Watchers Pizza: Far Superior to Store-Bought Options
Spinach and Artichoke Pizza Fingers: Perfect for Snacking or Appetizers
Weight Watchers Caprese Calzones
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cup Self-rising flour
- 1 cup Nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ⅓ cup Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered (measure after chopping)
- ½ cup Fat-free mozzarella shreds
- To taste Table salt
- ½ tsp Dried thyme
- 2 tbsp Fresh basil, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp Garlic powder
- Marinara sauce for dipping, optional
- Optional: Spicy Italian sausage or other cooked lean meat (ensure it’s pre-cooked)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375F (190°C).
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To make the dough, combine 1 cup of self-rising flour and the Greek yogurt in a bowl. Add 2 tbsp more of flour if the dough is too sticky. Gently knead the mixture inside the bowl until a smooth dough forms. Split the dough into 4 equal portions.
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Use the rest of the measured flour to lightly dust your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. For easiest handling, roll each dough portion between two pieces of parchment paper into four large circles, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
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In a separate bowl, combine the halved or quartered tomatoes, table salt, dried thyme, and freshly chopped basil. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasonings as needed. Then, add the fat-free mozzarella shreds and stir to evenly distribute them.
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Disperse the filling evenly onto one half of each of the 4 dough circles, leaving a small border. Add any other preferred optional toppings. Fold the other half of each circle over to create a semicircle and firmly pinch the seams all the way around to completely enclose the filling. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a more secure seal. (If the dough doesn’t stick to itself, use a little water on the edges to adhere it).
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Optionally, for a golden finish, brush each calzone with beaten egg whites (one egg white is usually sufficient), then bake them on a parchment-lined pan for 22 -27 minutes until they are golden brown and thoroughly baked.
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Serve warm with marinara sauce or your other preferred dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
Please note that the nutrition information provided does not include any optional add-ins you might choose to incorporate.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.