Unpacking the 270-Calorie Bar Pie
The 10-inch cheese and tomato sauce bar pie from Eddie's Pizza in New Hyde Park is famously low in calories, with a stated 270 calories for the personal-sized portion. This is largely due to its distinctively thin and crispy crust and a measured use of high-quality, part-skim mozzarella cheese. The concept of the 'bar pie' originated from being the perfect, light snack to accompany a beer, and its low-calorie profile has been a key part of its legacy since the 1930s.
The Nutritional Breakdown
While the 270-calorie figure is the headline, a closer look at the nutritional composition reveals a balanced snack. The pie is made with a thin, almost cracker-like crust, minimizing the carbohydrate load typically found in thicker pizza crusts. The use of part-skim mozzarella reduces the overall fat content, contributing to the lower calorie count. The simple tomato sauce and cheese foundation keeps the ingredients list minimal, which further helps in maintaining the pie's lean nutritional profile.
- Crust Type: The ultra-thin crust is the primary driver of the low carbohydrate content.
- Cheese Choice: Part-skim mozzarella is a key component, reducing fat without sacrificing flavor.
- Sauce: A simple, light tomato sauce is used to complement the other ingredients.
- Size: At 10 inches, it's a personal-sized pizza, which helps with portion control and contributes to the low total calorie count.
Comparing Eddie's Bar Pie to Other Pizzas
To truly appreciate the low-calorie nature of Eddie's bar pie, it's helpful to compare it with other pizza options. Most standard pizza slices contain between 250 and 350 calories, meaning an entire Eddie's 10-inch pie can have fewer calories than two typical slices. The table below highlights the differences between Eddie's bar pie and a few other popular pizza styles.
| Pizza Type | Serving Size | Estimated Calories | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eddie's Bar Pie | 10-inch pie | ~270 calories | Thin, cracker-like crust, part-skim cheese |
| New York Style Slice | 1 slice (1/8th of 14" pie) | 270-300 calories | Thicker crust, higher cheese and oil content |
| Chicago Deep Dish Slice | 1 slice | 500+ calories | Thick, buttery crust, very heavy cheese and sauce |
| Domino's Hand Tossed | 1 slice (medium) | ~250 calories | Standard commercial pizza crust, often higher sodium |
How Toppings Affect the Calorie Count
The 270-calorie figure applies specifically to the standard cheese bar pie. Adding extra toppings will, of course, increase the total calorie count. Here’s a look at how different additions impact the overall nutritional value:
- Vegetables: Adding toppings like peppers, onions, or broccoli has a minimal effect on calories, typically adding only a few extra calories per topping.
- Meats: Protein-heavy options like sausage, meatball, or pepperoni will increase the calorie and fat content more significantly. For example, pepperoni or meatball can add 50-100 calories or more per topping to the total.
- Extra Cheese: While the base pie uses part-skim mozzarella, adding extra cheese will increase both the calorie and saturated fat count substantially.
- Whole Wheat Crust: Eddie's also offers a whole wheat crust option for their pies, which can affect the nutritional profile, potentially altering fiber content.
Managing Your Intake with Additions
For those looking to maintain the light nature of the bar pie, choosing vegetable toppings is the best approach. Meat toppings should be enjoyed in moderation, as they can quickly turn the low-calorie dish into a heavier meal. For those interested in exploring the full menu and nutritional information, the official Eddie's Pizza website offers detailed information about their offerings.
Conclusion: A Calorie-Conscious Classic
Eddie's bar pie stands out as a unique option in the pizza world, combining nostalgic flavor with a surprisingly low-calorie count. The deliberate use of a thin, crispy crust and part-skim mozzarella results in a satisfying personal pizza for just 270 calories. While toppings can increase this number, the foundational pie remains a testament to balancing flavor and mindful eating. This approach makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking a classic pizza experience without the heavy calorie commitment often associated with the dish. The transparency and long-standing recipe at Eddie's are part of what make it a beloved institution.
