Lightened Up Italian Panini

If you’re a fan of the classic Italian Panini but are looking for a healthier alternative, you’ve come to the right place!

Today, we’re diving into a lightened up recipe that will satisfy your craving for this delicious sandwich without breaking your diet goals.

By making a few smart ingredient swaps, we can create a delightful version of the Italian Panini that is lower in calories and points, yet still packed with flavor.

The Ingredients

Aunt Millie’s Live Carb Smart White Bread: Typically a panini sandwich is made with Italian bread. I used Aunt Millie’s because it is low in carbs and lower in calories.

Two slices of Aunt Millie’s bread is only 2 points.

Ham: I used 2 ounces of black forest ham which was 2 points. It’s a good source of protein and has less saturated fat than other red meats.

Turkey Pepperoni: This alternative provides that classic savory taste but with significantly fewer calories and fat. I tastes just like regular pepperoni!

Cheese: I opted for part-skim mozzarella cheese slices. It offers the gooey, melty texture we all love in a panini, yet helps reduce the overall fat content.

Light Italian Dressing: Add that zesty kick without the extra calories and fat found in regular dressings.

My favorite is the Good Seasons Zesty Italian dressing. You can use half of the recommended oil and replace the rest with water for a low fat version.

If I don’t have a lot of time I like the Olive Garden low fat Italian dressing.

Nonstick Cooking Spray: Using nonstick cooking spray instead of butter is a smart choice that significantly cuts down on calories and fat in your lightened up Italian Panini.

Zero Point Ingredients: Vegetables like fresh tomato slices, crisp red onion, and tangy banana peppers play a vital role in making your Italian Panini not only delicious but also healthier.

These 0-point ingredients are naturally low in calories yet packed with essential nutrients, making them perfect for those looking to lighten up their meal without compromising on flavor.

Click here to track the points on your Weight Watchers app.

Here is a quick video on how to make the Italian Panini:

How to Make a Lightened Up Italian Panini

Take two slices of Aunt Millie’s Live carb smart bread and place them on a clean surface.

Lay the part-skim mozzarella cheese slice on one piece of bread. You want to start with the cheese so it melts.

Top the cheese with 2 ounces of black forest ham.

Next, place the turkey pepperoni on the ham followed by thinly sliced red onion. Carefully place the other slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich. (The vegetables will be added after the sandwich cooks.)

Spray the panini maker with nonstick cooking spray. Add the sandwich and close the panini maker.

Let the sandwich cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy.

Add some shredded lettuce to a bowl and toss it with 1 tablespoon of light Italian dressing.

Carefully remove the panini from the press using a spatula. Place it on a cutting board and remove the top piece of bread.

Add the lettuce, tomato, and banana peppers. Place the top piece of bread back onto the sandwich and enjoy!

Here are some more Weight Watchers friendly recipes:

Chicken Caprese Panini

Turkey Pesto Sandwich (Starbucks Copycat)

Chopped Turkey Sandwich

Big Mac Wraps

If you’re looking for some zero point recipes, check out my post 20 Zero Point Recipes or my post 20 (More) Zero Point Recipes. Both are filled with delicious recipes that won’t cost you a single point! They’re perfect for days when you’re running low on points, or trying to save up points for a night out. 

If you’re looking for dessert recipes you can visit 50 Weight Watchers Freestyle Desserts. It’s filled with delicious desserts perfect for Weight Watchers!

Are you looking for a meal plan that’s Weight Watchers friendly? I have over 200 meal plans that you can choose from and I post a new one each week. Click here to check them out!