Ingredients

8 ounces ground chicken ( or beef or pork )
1 medium onion , chopped ( about 1 cup )
2 large garlic cloves , smashed
1 cup grated zucchini ( or chopped broccoli )
1 can tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon pepper , freshly ground
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ( flakes )
3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup parmesan cheese , grated ( or shredded )
2/3 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons canola oil ( I use Becel oil )
3/4 cup skim milk
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup skim milk
Pizza Calzones are a popular Italian dish, typically made with pizza dough and filled with cheese, meats, and vegetables. This recipe puts a healthy spin on traditional calzones by using whole wheat flour, zucchini or broccoli, and part-skim mozzarella cheese to create a low carb, high protein dish that is perfect for people with diabetes or anyone looking for a healthy meal option. The tomato sauce is also homemade, so you can control the amount of sugar and sodium it contains. The calzones are baked instead of fried, further reducing their fat content. This recipe is easy to customize to your liking by adding your favorite toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chicken until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3.Add the onion and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion softens.
4.Add the grated zucchini or chopped broccoli, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables have softened and the mixture has thickened.
5.In a separate bowl, combine the part-skim mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese.
6.In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the canola oil and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
7.Gradually add the skim milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
8.Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes or until smooth. Roll the dough into a large square or rectangle and cut into 8 equal pieces.
9.Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the tomato sauce mixture and a small handful of the cheese mixture onto each piece of dough. Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket and pinch the edges closed.
10.Brush the tops of the calzones with the remaining milk and sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese, if desired.
11.Place the calzones onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden. Serve hot.

PROS

This Pizza Calzone recipe is diabetic-friendly and low in fat and sugar, making it a healthy and delicious meal.

It is packed with protein and fiber, which are important for maintaining blood sugar levels and promoting fullness.

It is easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings.

CONS

This recipe may take some time to prepare and bake.

Using ground chicken, beef or pork can increase the cholesterol levels if consumed frequently and in large amounts.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This Pizza Calzone recipe is packed with health benefits.
The combination of whole wheat flour, zucchini or broccoli, and part-skim mozzarella cheese provides fiber, vitamins A and C, and calcium.
Ground chicken is also a lean source of protein and provides essential nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc.
The use of whole wheat flour instead of white flour helps to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases.

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