She Strengthens

Italian Food Reinvented: 19 Healthy Twists on Classic Favorites

When it comes to Italian cuisine, it’s hard to resist the allure of rich flavors, comforting dishes, and satisfying portions. However, many traditional Italian-American restaurant favorites can be heavy on carbs, rich in dairy, and packed with meat. The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition. Here are 19 healthier twists on classic Italian dishes that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

Appetizers

1. Baked Italian Rice Balls with Creamy Marinara Dipping Sauce

Reinvent the classic arancini balls by baking them instead of frying, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Serve with a creamy marinara dipping sauce made with tahini for a dairy-free delight.

2. Healthy and Easy Minestrone Soup

Give minestrone soup a makeover by using gluten-free spaghetti, fewer ingredients, and a focus on fresh vegetables. This hearty, vegetarian soup is a perfect starter for any meal.

3. Chopped Caprese Salad

Elevate the classic Caprese salad by chopping cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh herbs, then mixing them with a balsamic reduction. This refreshing twist is perfect for hot summer days.

4. Gluten-Free Pasta Fagioli Soup

Take control of the ingredients in this classic pasta and bean soup by using gluten-free pasta, fresh vegetables, and lean ground beef. This comforting soup is a staple for any Italian-inspired meal.

5. Healthier Italian Wedding Soup

Lighten up Italian wedding soup by using egg whites, oats instead of breadcrumbs, and lean ground chicken. Add some kale for a nutrient boost and pearled couscous for a fun texture change.

6. Copycat Olive Garden Salad

Recreate the iconic Olive Garden salad with a healthier twist. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, and opt for a lighter dressing. This salad is a perfect side dish or light lunch.

7. Lighter Antipasto Salad

Rethink the classic antipasto salad by making vegetables the stars of the show. Add some romaine, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, roasted peppers, and mushrooms, then top with Provolone, ham, and salami for a balanced flavor.

Main Meals

8. Penne Rosa

Transform Noodles and Company’s penne rosa into a healthier, creamy pasta dish using Greek yogurt, whole-wheat pasta, and fresh spinach. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy night in.

9. Healthy Bolognese

Make Bolognese sauce work for you by offering Paleo, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. This versatile recipe is a staple for any Italian-inspired meal.

10. Easy, Healthy Lasagna

Healthify lasagna by layering sliced veggies, using cottage cheese instead of ricotta, and opting for whole-wheat pasta. This classic dish just got a whole lot healthier.

11. Copycat Domino’s Thin Crust Pizza

Ditch the takeout menu and make your own thin crust pizza at home. Roll out the dough, add your favorite toppings, and bake to perfection in just 20 minutes.

12. Easy Eggplant Parmesan

Give eggplant Parmesan a makeover by broiling instead of frying, using thin slices of cheese, and opting for a light bread crumb topping. This healthier twist is just as delicious as the original.

13. Healthy Italian Spaghetti Carbonara

Reinvent spaghetti carbonara by using turkey bacon, less cheese, and whole-wheat pasta. This creamy sauce is still rich and satisfying, but without the guilt.

14. Risotto Alla Milanese

Create a luxurious risotto at home in just 20 minutes. Use saffron, white wine, and a touch of butter and cheese for a restaurant-quality dish without the richness.

Desserts

15. Healthy Tiramisu

Indulge in individualized cups of tiramisu made with honey, ricotta cheese, and ladyfingers soaked in espresso. This healthier twist is perfect for portion control and a sweet treat.

16. Simple Baked Cannoli

Rethink cannoli by baking instead of frying the shells. This healthier version is less messy and just as delicious, with a creamy sweet cheese filling.

17. Chocolate Pistachio Semifreddo

Create a fluffy, semi-frozen dessert without an ice cream maker. Use part-skim ricotta, reduced-fat cream cheese, and just three tablespoons of honey for a healthier treat.

18. Zabaglione Trifles

Elevate zabaglione by adding biscotti and fresh strawberries to create a layered dessert. This impossibly airy yet rich custard is perfect for special occasions.

19. AIP Coconut Pumpkin Panna Cotta

Enjoy a dairy-free panna cotta made with coconut cream, pumpkin puree, and spices. This silky mixture is a perfect dessert for nondairy fans.