Lean, mild-tasting buffalo meat is an excellent substitute for ground beef. It’s high in iron and low in cholesterol. If your supermarket doesn’t carry it, try your local butcher shop--or use lean ground sirloin or turkey instead.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground buffalo meat
• 1 small Vidalia or other sweet onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 English muffins, split
• 4 romaine lettuce leaves, trimmed
• 4 tomato slices

Directions:

In a medium bowl, combine the buffalo, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; mix well to combine. Divide and shape the mixture into 4 balls. With your finger make a deep indentation into each ball. Fill each hole with 2 tablespoons of the cheese. Pinch the meat closed to cover the cheese and shape each ball into a 3/4-inch-thick patty.

Toast the English muffins. Spray a nonstick skillet with nonstick spray and heat over medium-high heat. Cook burgers 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Place the English muffin bottoms on 4 plates. Top each with 1 lettuce leaf, 1 tomato slice, and a burger. Place the muffin tops on each burger.

POINTS Value: 6

Filling Extra

Serve these juicy burgers with a tasty side of red cabbage slaw. Combine 2 cups packaged red cabbage slaw with 1/2 cup packaged matchstick-cut carrots, 1/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt, and red vinegar to taste

Serving Size: Makes 4 Servings