Healthy Dining California Pizza Kitchen Style

When it comes to restaurants, California Pizza Kitchen is one of the original innovators.  This drive to create unique and tempting menu choices using the freshest of ingredients continues to earn California Pizza Kitchen loyal fans today, over 30 years after opening its doors.  Now with locations nationwide, it’s not hard to enjoy a hot and fresh hand-tossed pizza, bright and flavorful salad or savory pasta straight from California Pizza Kitchen.

With a renewed focus on health, freshness and flavors, California Pizza Kitchen has gradually revamped restaurants and menus over the last few years with an emphasis on healthy and made-from-scratch meals.  Next time you stop by, try one of the Healthy Dining-recommended menu choices, both old favorites and new:

Appetizer: Lettuce Wraps with Shrimp (Serves 4)

Appetizers can be a great way to start a meal, especially when they focus on quality ingredients like lean proteins and vegetables.  These wraps combine shrimp, fresh and meaty Shiitake mushrooms, crisp water chestnuts and flavorful scallions all tossed in a spicy ginger soy.  Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and contains zinc, which can help support the immune system.

Quinoa and Arugula Salad

When you’re in the mood for something a little lighter than pizza, this whole grain salad should be at the top of your list.  A blend of asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, toasted pine nuts and feta, this salad is a powerhouse of fiber and antioxidants plus complete protein from the quinoa.  Be sure to request the house made Champagne vinaigrette on the side.  Each tablespoon will add 80 calories, 8 g fat and 60 mg sodium.

The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza on Grain Crust (1/2 pizza)

This is one of those menu choices that brings people back again and again.  When you think California Pizza Kitchen, it’s hard not to think of this classic made with their “legendary” BBQ sauce, smoked Gouda, red onions, cilantro and chicken.  Piled on a whole grain crust, this choice brings the lean protein, whole grains and a whole lot of flavor!  Be sure to share this one or save some for lunch tomorrow.

Cedar Plank Salmon

Opt for an oh-so-good choice like this when you’re in the mood for some upscale dining. Roasted on a cedar plank in the hearth oven with smoked paprika and lime then served with white corn and spinach succotash topped with Feta, this menu choice is dietitian favorite for lean protein, healthy fats and nutritious veggies. 

Whether you think you know everything about them or you’re ready to walk through their doors for the first time, California Pizza Kitchen has something to tempt and surprise you.