A few months ago I discovered some very convenient, all natural pre-made paninis that I really love at Whole Foods. They aren't the lowest calorie food in the world (the four cheese flavor with roasted tomatoes is 380 calories and 8 weight watchers points), which made me hesitant to post about them (everyone is different, so what is diet food to one, might not always be to another). So, please use your own discretion to decide if they fit into your diet. If they don't work for your needs, I've also made some suggestions below about how to make your own panini which you can customize so it fits perfectly into your diet or lifestyle, for those days when you have a bit more time to invest into preparing a meal.
For me, this panini makes for a really yummy low calorie dinner. The paninis are made from all natural ingredients, extra virgin olive oil, and they have no artificial preservatives or trans fats. They grill up very easily and quickly in the microwave. Unlike some frozen foods which can be bland or nasty, these paninis are done really well and do not taste processed. I can tell by the way the paninis taste (including the taste and consistency of the bread) that they are made with really good ingredients. And, if that isn't enough, the fact that my husband always eats them before I can get to them is definitely a tell tale sign (and he rarely eats frozen foods since he loves to cook).
If you aren't interested in buying pre-made paninis you might consider making a panini of your own! It is not difficult if you have some time to pull your meal together (and the right fixings on hand). All you need is your favorite low calorie bread, a george foreman grill (I personally prefer the george foreman grill with removable plates as it is easier to clean) or a panini maker, your favorite sandwich fixings (I personally love mustard, low calorie cheese, and spinach), and some PAM (or other spray oil of your choosing). Once you've created your low calorie sandwich, spray the top and bottom of your bread, and put it in the grill. Cook it for a few minutes until the bread is browned! Yep, it is that easy!
Enjoy!
Juliet
8 comments:
Thanks for the great panini advice!
What is the difference between a panini and a regular sandwich that you just toast in the oven? Is it the cool looking lines? LOL
Pretty much! It is supposed to be on Italian bread, but it has evolved. :) For me panini means grilled sandwich with lines with some sort of perfectly melted cheese.
Hi Juliet, such a useful site! I'll have to dig into it!
thanks for visiting my blog!
Hi Juliet! Thanks for stopping by my blog! I really like your site....great tips!
I can't eat much in terms of prepackaged foods but we make panini with the bread I make. It's always a hit with the family. My kids make their own in the mornings to take to school. It makes it more fun for them.
I much prefer making my own because those frozen ones are usually very TINY! thanks for your reviews!
I just bought the new george foremen with removable plates. Maybe ill have to a few of these up!
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