5 Ways to Make Your Takeout Healthier
I was out to lunch with a friend and the server came to take our order, we had both been looking at the menu so I assumed we were both ready to order. I offered for her to order first and she froze, looked at me and said "you go first, I am going to get what ever you order because I know it will be healthy" So, I ordered and sure enough all she said was "make it 2". Luckily she like it and we both enjoyed our lunch! That lunch did remind me that it can be difficult to make healthy choices from a restaurant.
While cooking your own meals is a great way to focus on health, sometimes the convenience of takeout wins. However, takeout foods aren't notorious for being healthy choices. With a few simple swaps, you can turn your takeout into a healthy meal that will leave you feeling satisfied without feeling sluggish.
Here are a few tips for upgrading your takeout:
1. Serve up proper portions
Just like when you go out to eat at your favorite restaurant, the portion you're given for takeout may be far larger than one serving. Take a moment and plate it, so you eat enough to feel satisfied without mindlessly overeating. As a side bonus, you'll have another portion to enjoy tomorrow for lunch. Filling half of your plate with a fresh salad before adding your main course is a great way to keep portions in check without measuring.
2. Choose more veggies
Make sure you get the right amount of vegetables on your plate, too. Even if you're ordering a burger, you can load it up with veggie toppings and choose a side salad as your side. Ordering pizza? Top it with veggies and order a side salad to eat before you dive into a slice. There are tons of ways to incorporate more vegetables into your takeout meals.
3. Supplement with something from your fridge
While ordering takeout can be a quick and convenient way to get a meal, it can also be expensive. One way to save money (and not waste your groceries!) is to supplement your takeout order with something from your fridge. For example, if you're ordering takeout, you could add a side of steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts or throw together a quick side salad. Adding a few items from your fridge can stretch your takeout budget and get more bang for your buck.
4. Choose healthy cooking methods
Restaurant foods can be loaded with questionable oils and more sodium than you need. Prioritize steamed, baked, or sautéed options over breaded and fried dishes. Along with healthy protein and more veggies, this will make you feel good after your takeout food choices.
5. Ask for sauces and dressings on the side
When ordering takeout, it is always best to ask for sauces and dressings on the side. This way, you can control how much of each you want to add to your meal. Too much sauce or dressing can easily make a dish too heavy or soggy. You also have the option of using a healthy alternative you have at home.
Above all, don't punish yourself for ordering takeout. When you make mindful choices, it can still be healthy. Plus, taking a break from the kitchen is a smart way to stay motivated and inspire creativity in the kitchen. Having indulgences here and there is a good way to keep from binging, too, so allow yourself to truly enjoy those special takeout moments from time to time.