Tips For Dining At A Steakhouse When You're On A Diet
Quality steakhouses have long been popular for many reasons — who doesn't love a delicious, juicy steak? However, when you're on a diet and need to make healthy dining choices, dining at a steakhouse may seem intimidating. Luckily, you there are many ways to enjoy a fantastic meal at a steakhouse without regretting it the next time you step on the scale. The key is to be prepared and have a good idea of what common menu items are healthy choices. Use the following tips to help you eat healthy and stick to your diet when dining at a steakhouse:
Choose a Low-Calorie Appetizer
For most people, a meal at a steakhouse is meant to be enjoyed and savored. This means that the majority of people opt to start their meal with an appetizer. When you arrive at a steakhouse and begin looking at the menu, beware of any appetizers that may be deep fried. Luckily, most high-end steakhouses offer low-calorie appetizers, such as shrimp cocktail, crab claws, or raw oysters. Surprisingly, many steakhouses also offer amazing salads. Choosing a low-calorie appetizer will allow you to enjoy great flavors without consuming a lot of fat or calories.
Pay Attention to Sauces
Many different types of steak preparations include rich sauces, or steaks may be drenched in herbed butter as they are resting. Some of the more popular sauces found on steaks contain a lot of butter or egg yolks, which can up the calorie count. If you would like your steak topped with any kind of sauce, it is best to look for a wine-based sauce. These types of sauces tend to have a lot fewer calories than any butter-based sauce.
Skip the Bread Basket
Warm, fresh bread is a staple served at most steakhouses, but when you need to stick to a diet, it is best to skip the breadbasket. Munching on bread while you wait for your entree to arrive can result in consuming way more empty calories than you first expected.
Choose the Right Steak Size
When you're dining at a steakhouse, it is always best to order a steak — it's what the restaurant is known for and specializes in. But, when ordering, pay close attention to the size of the cut of beef that you order. Cuts of steaks can range in size from a few ounces to well over a pound, so portion control is a priority. If you eat a healthy appetizer and also have a side dish, such as steamed vegetables, a smaller steak will fill you up without all of the calories and fat of a larger cut.
To learn more about what healthy options might be available, contact a steakhouse in your area and learn more.