South Beach Snack Phase 1 “Pizzas”

I’ll never forget the first time I had “pizza” like this. It was years ago, during my own brief flirtation with the South Beach Diet. I was staring down the barrel of another Phase 1 day when the craving for something, anything, that resembled comfort food hit me like a ton of bricks. My wife, ever the resourceful one, whipped up these little tomato “pizzas.” The burst of sweet tomato, the herbaceous pesto, and the satisfyingly melted mozzarella – it was a revelation! It wasn’t exactly pizza, but it was close enough to silence the beast and get me through another day. Now, I make them for a quick and healthy snack even when I’m not dieting!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 pizza bites
• Dietary Type: Low Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 6 slices steak tomatoes
• 6 tablespoons prepared pesto sauce
• 6 slices lowfat mozzarella cheese

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Oven

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to Broil. Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the upper third of the oven, about 4-6 inches from the broiler element. Keep a close eye on them!
2. Carefully slice the steak tomatoes into 6 even slices, each about ½ inch thick. This will provide a sturdy base for your “pizza.”
3. Arrange the tomato slices on a baking sheet. They can be close together, but make sure they are not overlapping.
4. Evenly top each tomato slice with a tablespoon of prepared pesto sauce. Spread the pesto to cover the entire surface of the tomato.
5. Place a slice of lowfat mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto on each tomato slice. Ensure the cheese is centered so it melts evenly over the tomato.
6. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly. This should only take a few minutes, so watch it very closely to prevent burning.
7. Remove baking sheet from oven and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Tomato Selection: Look for ripe, firm steak tomatoes. Beefsteak or heirloom varieties are excellent choices. Avoid tomatoes that are too soft or have blemishes.
• Pesto Perfection: While store-bought pesto works well, homemade pesto is even better. If using store-bought, opt for a high-quality pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. (Note: Parmesan cheese is not South Beach Diet Phase 1 compliant, so omit or substitute with a compliant alternative if needed).
• Cheese Choices: Lowfat mozzarella is recommended, but you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Remember to adjust your recipe to comply with South Beach Phase 1 restrictions if necessary.
• Broiler Beware: Broilers can vary in intensity. Keep a close watch on your “pizzas” to prevent burning. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, move the baking sheet to a lower rack or reduce the broiling time.
• Make-Ahead Prep: You can slice the tomatoes and portion out the pesto and cheese ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the “pizzas” just before broiling.
• To Prevent Soggy Tomatoes: If your tomatoes are particularly juicy, you can lightly salt them and let them sit on a paper towel for 10-15 minutes before assembling the “pizzas.” This will help draw out some of the excess moisture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these South Beach Snack Phase 1 “Pizzas” immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil (if not already in your pesto) or a drizzle of balsamic glaze (use sparingly, as it can be high in sugar, and ensure it complies with your diet plan).

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the tomatoes may become slightly watery, and the cheese may harden. Reheat them under the broiler for a minute or two, but be careful not to overcook them. Reheating is not really recommended. It is best to eat immediately.

These are not suitable for freezing.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated, based on typical ingredient values. May vary based on brand and specific ingredients used.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	80 kcal	4%
Total Fat	6g	8%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	150mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	3g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g
Protein	4g	8%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper on top of the cheese before broiling.
• Herby Delight: Mix fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the pesto for added flavor.
• Different Veggie Base: While steak tomatoes are ideal, you could also use thick slices of eggplant or zucchini as a base. Pre-cook them slightly (grilling or sautéing) before topping and broiling.
• Pesto Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pesto, try using a sugar-free marinara sauce or a homemade tapenade (olive spread).
• Vegan Option: Use vegan pesto and dairy-free mozzarella cheese.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular mozzarella cheese instead of lowfat?
A: Yes, you can use regular mozzarella cheese, but keep in mind that it will increase the fat and calorie content of the dish. Lowfat mozzarella is recommended for those following the South Beach Diet or looking for a lighter option.

Q: Can I use sun-dried tomato pesto?
A: Sun-dried tomato pesto can be a flavorful alternative, but be mindful of the sugar content, as some commercially prepared versions can be high in sugar. Check the label and choose a sugar-free or low-sugar option, or make your own.

Q: How can I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery?
A: Salting the tomato slices and letting them sit on a paper towel for a few minutes before assembling the “pizzas” can help draw out excess moisture.

Q: Can I add other toppings?
A: Yes, you can add other toppings, but make sure they are South Beach Diet Phase 1 compliant. Some options include sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or lean protein like shredded chicken or turkey.

Q: How long can I store leftover “pizzas”?
A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the tomatoes may become watery, and the cheese may harden. Reheating is not generally recommended, but if you do, use the broiler for a minute or two.

Final Thoughts

These South Beach Snack Phase 1 “Pizzas” are a lifesaver when those pizza cravings hit. They are quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and adapt the recipe to your own taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re on a diet or simply looking for a healthy and delicious snack, I encourage you to give these a try. Share your creations and feedback; I’d love to hear how you make them your own! Pair them with a crisp green salad for a more complete meal.