The Dinner Bar: Naan Cheeseburger Pizza

Cheeseburger Pizza and Berries & Yogurt Parfait

Who says cheeseburgers and pizza are off limits?  This meal is a healthier take on the classic All-American favorites- pizza, burgers, and milkshakes- and makes nutrition feel like an indulgence.  Just stock your “Dinner Bar” with all the ingredients, even dessert, and let your kids have fun assembling their very own creations.  You will need:

Grains:

• Whole-wheat ready-to-eat Naan, small

Protein:

1 lb. lean ground beef

Veggies:

• 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• Shredded iceberg lettuce, 1 head

Condiments and flavorings:

• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Salt & pepper
• Dill pickle chips or pickle relish

Dairy:

• Low-fat sharp cheddar cheese
• Low-fat vanilla yogurt
• Milk

Fruit:

• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh strawberries

To prepare the pizzas: Cook ground beef in a large frying pan.  Drain the grease and season with a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce and a little salt and pepper.  Add the beef to your bar along with the chopped veggies and other toppings.  Portion out just enough ketchup in a bowl for everyone to spread on their Naan, using the back of a spoon.  Let your child top the Naan with cooked beef, onions, and cheese.  Place all of the individual pizzas on a large sheet pan coated with non-stick cooking spray, and bake according to the Naan package directions.  Alternatively, grill the Naan pizzas. Once cooked, encourage your child to pile on the fresh veggies, and maybe even some mustard and pickles.

To prepare the dessert: Set out parfait glasses, or any other tall clear glasses that you have, to get the full visual effect.  Let your child layer the yogurt and berries for a sweet and colorful ending to their dinner.

I can’t think of any meal that is more kid-friendly.  Take this opportunity to teach your family about moderation and appropriate portion sizes, especially with condiments and higher fat items.  Keep in mind that “The Dinner Bar” is about letting them make their own choices with food and eating.  And don’t forget to practice what you preach when making your own pizza!  You will be setting them up for success in making better choices!

Note:  If your kids tend to over-do cheese, simply create your own blend with the addition of mozzarella, which tends to be lower in fat.  Keep in mind that sharp cheddar is stronger in flavor than mild, so you can use less to get the same taste.  You can also blend the yogurt with frozen berries for a refreshing smoothie-like “milkshake”.  Don’t forget the straws!

Contributing Author:  Cami Ruark