Healthy Eating Options at Our Restaurant
You are eating healthy while at a restaurant is possible if you take the time to pre-plan your meal. Many restaurants post their menus online to get a sneak peek at what is offered before you head out to eat.
Look for words like fresh, healthy, light, veggie, or low-sugar in the description to help you choose healthier options.
Vegetables
When dining out, a balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetable fibre is necessary for optimum health. There are numerous entries on many restaurant menus, including vegetarian options, as is the case at Bricks on Boundary.
For example, a meat-free version of a famous soup can be made simply by replacing the meat stock with vegetable broth. And adding vegetable toppings to pizza or other sandwiches can help boost the nutrient content.
Even fast-food chains are starting to get on board with healthier food options. For instance,
Ask your server for recommendations, and try to find a menu item that will work with your particular health goals. Remember that a restaurant meal is only part of your daily nutrition, so don’t stress if one plate doesn’t meet all your dietary needs.
Seafood
Including seafood in your diet can be a great idea as it’s packed with protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fats. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the fat content in seafood may vary, depending on the source and cooking techniques used. Choosing seafood as part of a balanced diet can be healthy.
It would help if you chose seafood dishes that are grilled, steamed, or broiled. Those are healthier than fried dishes. Overeating fried food can cause you to hold water weight and raise your risk for high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
While seafood has a lot of healthy ingredients, some seafood dishes can contain too much sodium and too many calories. That’s why it’s essential to read the menu carefully. You should also avoid drinks that are loaded with sugar. Your server will help you find healthier options. They can suggest side dishes like steamed vegetables and a salad that pair well with the meal of your choice. They can also recommend beverages that are lower in calories and sugar.
Meat
Restaurants are catching on to the fact that consumers want healthy options when they dine out. Many are retooling menu items to offer healthier choices that will still appeal to customers’ taste buds and satisfy their appetites.
Additionally, how many calories are consumed might vary greatly depending on the cooking techniques utilized in a dish. Instead of ordering fried food, pick items from the Bricks on Boundary menu that are baked, steamed, roasted, poached, or grilled.
For a satisfying, heart-healthy meal when dining out, try a veggie burrito bowl topped with brown rice, guacamole, salsa, lettuce, and beans. Or order an Indian dish called dal, which is high in protein and low in fat.
If you must have a burger, opt for one with a whole grain bun or lettuce wrap and limit the amount of meat to 4 oz. Also, ask your server for a side of steamed or grilled vegetables instead of fries. They may charge a little more for this option, but you will save hundreds of calories.
Pasta
When it comes to pasta, it’s easy to overeat, mainly when a dish includes rich cheese and meat. The good news is, if you’re careful about your order, there are some healthier options on the menu.
For starters, a salad with bitter leaves like rocket and endive stimulates the release of digestive juices, so you’ll feel full faster, helping you eat less. And try to avoid salads with creamy dressings, which are high in saturated fat.
Another great option is a chicken parmesan, which provides protein and healthy fats. It also includes vegetables, making it more balanced than a typical salad.
For a lighter pasta dish, opt for the Kung Pao or Bolognese spaghetti. Both servings contain less than 600 calories and are rich in fiber and protein. Also, try to find dishes that use a tomato or red wine sauce. Both are lower in calories than cream sauces, and they’re packed with lycopene and nutrients.
