"Healthified" Italian Beef Sandwiches

73% less fat • 66% more fiber • 72% less sat fat than the original recipe—see the comparison. Beef up your nutrition! Try these healthified, hearty sandwiches and put extra fat and calories out to pasture. From eatbetteramerica.

Prep Time:20 min
Start to Finish:12 hr 20 min
makes:12 sandwiches




3-lb boneless beef bottom round or rump roast
1 medium onion, sliced
1 cup fat-free Italian dressing (not creamy)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
12 whole wheat burger buns, toasted, if desired
3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Italian cheese blend (3 oz)
3/4 cup thinly sliced roasted red bell peppers (from a jar)
3/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1. Trim any visible fat from beef. Cut beef into 4 pieces; place in 4- to 5-quart slow cooker. Top with onion and dressing. Cover; cook on Low heat setting 10 to 12 hours (or on High heat setting 5 to 6 hours) until beef is tender.
2. With slotted spoon, remove beef and onion from cooker; place on cutting board. Cool slightly. Shred beef, using 2 forks. Reserve 1 cup liquid in cooker. (If desired, reserve remaining liquid to serve with sandwiches for dipping. To serve, heat liquid in small saucepan over low heat until hot.)
3. Return shredded beef and onion to liquid in cooker. Add vinegar; stir well. Cover; cook on High heat setting 10 to 15 minutes or until heated.
4. To serve, spoon about 1/2 cup beef mixture in each bun; top with cheese, roasted peppers and basil.