When dining out, it can be challenging to find healthy options that are not only delicious but also low in calories. Many restaurant meals are high in calories, salt, and unhealthy fats, making it difficult to maintain a balanced diet. However, there are several restaurant meals that can be enjoyed while keeping calorie intake in check. Here are 12 restaurant meals under 500 calories that are not only nutritious but also flavorful.
Healthy Options at Popular Restaurants
Some popular restaurants offer healthy options that are under 500 calories. For example, Chipotle Mexican Grill offers a burrito bowl with brown rice, beans, and vegetables that contains approximately 375 calories. Another option is the Grilled Chicken Sandwich at Chick-fil-A, which has around 300 calories. Additionally, Panera Bread offers a variety of healthy options, including the Strawberry Poppy Chicken Salad with a light vinaigrette, which contains approximately 340 calories.
Low-Calorie Meals at Italian Restaurants
Italian restaurants often have a reputation for high-calorie meals, but there are some options that can be enjoyed while keeping calorie intake in check. For example, Bruno’s Italian Restaurant offers a Grilled Chicken Breast with a side of steamed vegetables that contains approximately 320 calories. Another option is the Vegetable Primavera at Olive Garden, which has around 420 calories. It’s also worth noting that many Italian restaurants offer whole wheat pasta options, which can help reduce calorie intake.
| Restaurant | Meal | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chipotle Mexican Grill | Burrito Bowl with Brown Rice, Beans, and Vegetables | 375 |
| Chick-fil-A | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | 300 |
| Panera Bread | Strawberry Poppy Chicken Salad with Light Vinaigrette | 340 |
| Bruno's Italian Restaurant | Grilled Chicken Breast with Steamed Vegetables | 320 |
| Olive Garden | Vegetable Primavera | 420 |
| Subway | 6-inch Turkey Breast Sandwich on Whole Wheat Bread with Vegetables | 280 |
| Jason's Deli | Grilled Chicken Salad with Light Vinaigrette | 350 |
| McDonald's | Grilled Chicken Sandwich with a Side Salad | 400 |
| TGI Fridays | Grilled Chicken Breast with a Side of Steamed Broccoli | 380 |
| Red Lobster | Grilled Shrimp with a Side of Steamed Asparagus | 240 |
| Applebee's | Grilled Chicken Breast with a Side of Roasted Vegetables | 360 |
| Outback Steakhouse | Grilled Chicken Breast with a Side of Steamed Green Beans | 340 |
Tips for Eating Healthy at Restaurants
Eating healthy at restaurants requires some planning and mindfulness. Here are some tips to help you make healthy choices:
- Choose grilled or baked options instead of fried foods.
- Opt for whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat bread.
- Loading up on vegetables can help fill you up and reduce calorie intake.
- Avoid heavy sauces and dressings that are high in calories and sugar.
- Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overeating.
Healthy Eating at Fast Food Chains
Fast food chains often have a reputation for being unhealthy, but many now offer healthy options. For example, McDonald’s offers a Grilled Chicken Sandwich with a side salad that contains approximately 400 calories. Another option is the 6-inch Turkey Breast Sandwich on whole wheat bread with vegetables at Subway, which has around 280 calories.
What are some healthy options at Italian restaurants?
+Some healthy options at Italian restaurants include grilled chicken breast with steamed vegetables, vegetable primavera, and whole wheat pasta options. It's also a good idea to ask for light sauces and dressings to reduce calorie intake.
How can I eat healthy at fast food chains?
+Eating healthy at fast food chains requires some planning and mindfulness. Opt for grilled or baked options, choose whole grains, and load up on vegetables. Avoid heavy sauces and dressings, and be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.
What are some tips for eating healthy at restaurants?
+Some tips for eating healthy at restaurants include choosing grilled or baked options, opting for whole grains, loading up on vegetables, avoiding heavy sauces and dressings, and being mindful of portion sizes. It's also a good idea to ask for nutritional information and to plan ahead by looking up menus online.
In conclusion, eating healthy at restaurants is possible with some planning and mindfulness. By choosing grilled or baked options, opting for whole grains, loading up on vegetables, and avoiding heavy sauces and dressings, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious meal at your favorite restaurant.
