Great Recipes for Pregnant Gals: Mini Almost Pizzas
Shopping List
whole wheat muffins
whatever veggies look good today
some kind of red sauce -- tomato, pizza, marinara
some cheese - get already grated if you're feeling really lazy
sack of baby greens or other healthy salad stuff
some fresh fruit for dessert
Ingredients
Whole Wheat Muffins
Pizza Sauce -- look for those low in sugars and salt
or Marinara Sauce
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (look for lowfat)
Suggested toppings:
Chopped green onion
Sliced mushrooms
Sliced zucchini
Chopped broccoli
Chopped cauliflower
Leftover cooked chicken
Pineapple (my favorite, rest of family hates)
Lightly sauté vegetables (toppings) in skillet on top of stove using 1 - 2 teaspoons grapeseed, canola, or olive oil. (This means heat the oil up a bit, toss veggies in and give them a couple stirs. When they change colors or look a little floppy they're done enough.) Set aside while you get the muffins ready. Just a heads up -- if you're cooking for only a couple people, you won't need tons of veggies. 1/2 - 1 cup total is enough.
Next, slice muffins into half and place on cookie sheet in lowest rack in oven. Toast lightly using broiler. Remove and spread with pizza sauce. Sprinkle on cheese and top with cooked veggies. Add a little more cheese on top if you want. Place back under broiler and cook until cheese is bubbling. Cool a couple minutes before serving. You will probably need somewhere between 2 and 4 muffin halves per serving.
Serve with a fresh salad and some nectarines or peaches for dessert.
Factoids and Other Stuff
This is a healthy, filling meal that takes less than 15 minutes to make. Food groups included are whole grains, dairy, fruits and veggies, possibly lean meat, healthy oils.
It's also a perfect kids-in-the-kitchen-with-dad opportunity because each child and/or father can create their own masterpiece. (Add extra time for creativity.)
