New York has thin crust, Chicago has deep-dish, and California has…California Pizza Kitchen, a.k.a. CPK. The national chain is known for its anything-goes, fusion approach to pizza (we’re looking at you, BBQ chicken and carne asada pizza). But there’s more than just pies on the menu. Where else can you get pasta along with Asian lettuce wraps and power bowls?
But like at any restaurant, not everything on the menu is ideal for the health-conscious. But a lot of it is—if you know what to look for. Four R.D.s share their top healthy menu items at CPK:
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
You can’t go to CPK and not order pizza. “The savory flavors and meaty texture make this plant-based option seem just as hearty and filling as any other pizza on the menu,” says Cara Harbstreet, R.D., of Street Smart Nutrition. “Plus, it’s the perfect palette for loading up on additional veggies. My go-tos include sundried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or fresh arugula added on top.”
Per serving: 170 cal, 6 g fat (2.5 g sat fat), 22 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 380 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 7 g protein.
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
Truth: Everything tastes better in a bowl. “I like that it’s crafted in the likeness of the classic Vietnamese sandwich, but much easier to eat,” says Harbstreet. Plus, the quinoa boosts the fiber and protein, which makes it a light but satisfying meal, says Anne Danahy, R.D.N., a Scottsdale-based registered dietitian.
Per serving: 540 cal, 33 g fat (4.5 g sat fat), 40 g carbs, 10 g sugar, 770 mg sodium, 9 g fiber, 28 g protein.
Courtesy of CPK
“Lettuce wraps are one of my top suggestions,” says Anita Mirchandani, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the New York State Dietetic Association. “Pairing protein with greens reduces your carbs while increasing water and fiber intake.” Plus, grilled shrimp is a low-cal option that serves up a healthy dose of protein.
Per serving: 480 cal, 23 g fat (2.5 g sat fat), 40 g carbs, 16 g sugar, 1,490 mg sodium, 3 g fiber, 25 g protein.
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
If you’re not a mushroom fan, try this veggie-packed pizza, says Ginger Hultin, R.D.N. and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. With a combo of broccolini, eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted corn, and red onions, you’ll max out on flavors and nutrients, she says.
For a lower cal and sodium option, go for the cauliflower crust, says Mirchandani. With added fiber and nutrients, it’s healthier than traditional pizza dough.
Per serving: 180 cal, 5 g fat (2.5 g sat fat), 25 g carbs, 3 g sugar, 410 mg sodium, 2 g fiber, 8 g protein.
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
This salad checks all the boxes for a healthy meal—“fresh flavors, tons of texture, and balanced nutrition for a satisfying meal that doesn’t leave you hungry,” says Harbstreet. She orders hers with salmon for an extra protein boost. Plus, the leafy greens are full of dietary fiber and vitamin K, says Mirchandani.
Per half-salad (no added protein): 540 cal, 36 g fat (4.5 g sat fat), 46 g carbs, 11 g sugar, 820 mg sodium, 7 g fiber, 14 g protein.
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
“The black-purple Forbidden Rice gets its beautiful color from lots of antioxidants, and the bowl is full of lean protein and lots of veggies so it’s a perfect blend of macros for me,” says Danahy. Split it in two and you’ll have a supercharged lunch or dinner the next day.
Per serving (with chicken): 800 cal, 52 g fat (18 g sat fat), 65 g carbs, 16 g sugar, 1,400 mg sodium, 7 g fiber, 24 g protein.
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
While the popular salad can often can have upward of 1,000 (!!!) calories, this Caesar is one of the lower-calorie options, says Hultin. “It’s still packed with flavor and also quite filling,” she says. To better reign in the calories, Hultin recommends ordering a half size and the dressing on the side so you can control how much you use.
Per half salad: 270 cal, 20 g fat (6 g sat fat), 13 g carbs, 3 g sugar, 400 mg sodium, 4 g fiber, 8 g protein.
Courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen
If you’re craving a real entree, the hearth-roasted halibut is a solid choice. “It’s a good lean protein source paired with vegetables, offering a lower-calorie, satisfying meal option” says Mirchandani. You can also save half for lunch the next day.
Per serving: 850 cal, 45 g fat (26 g sat fat), 48 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 1,690 mg sodium, 7 g fiber, 60 g protein.
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