Smashed Italian Sliders with Parmesan-Garlic Aioli

Makes 8 sliders

Note: From Meredith Deeds.

• 1/4 c. reduced fat mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp. grated Parmesan

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 lb. lean ground beef

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

• 1/2 c. prepared marinara sauce, heated

• 1/2 c. shredded mozzarella

• 16 large basil leaves

• 8 small ciabatta rolls, split and toasted

Directions

To prepare the aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, Parmesan and garlic. Set aside.

To prepare the sliders: Form the meat into 8 balls about the size of golf balls.

Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Working in batches, add the meatballs to the skillet and immediately smash them firmly with a spatula until they are flat and about 3 inches in diameter. Season with a little of the salt and pepper and cook for 1 minute, then flip and smash the burgers with the spatula again. Top each with a tablespoon of marinara and a tablespoon of mozzarella. Cover the pan and cook for another minute to allow the cheese to melt and the patties to cook to desired doneness.

Smear a little of the aioli onto the bottom half of each toasted ciabatta roll. Place a patty on the roll, top with 2 basil leaves and the other half of the roll and serve.

Nutrition information per serving:

Calories226Fat9 gSodium515 mg

Carbohydrates19 gSaturated fat3 gCalcium97 mg

Protein17 gCholesterol42 mgDietary fiber1 g

Diabetic exchanges per serving: 1 bread/starch, 2 lean meat, ½ fat.