Making healthy choices when eating out at restaurants can be tough, and the pages full of carb-heavy pastas and cheesy, buttery sauces at Italian restaurants can throw a wrench in the plans of an unprepared dieter. By planning ahead and understanding what to look for in an Italian menu you can enjoy your night out without compromising your healthful eating plan.
Step 1
Have a healthy snack of fresh vegetables, a piece of fruit or a small handful of nuts two to three hours before you head to the restaurant. Snacking before you eat out will prevent you from feeling overly hungry and reduce the temptation to overeat at the restaurant.
Step 2
Skip the bread sticks and fried mozzarella appetizers and order a salad with low-fat dressing or cup of minestrone soup instead suggests Student Health Services at Texas A&M University. If you do go for bread, ask your server to leave off the butter or oil.
Step 3
Order whole wheat pasta if possible, and select lower fat sauces such as marinara or pomodoro in place of Alfredo, bolognese or carbonara sauces.
Step 4
Ask for steamed vegetables instead of pasta as a side dish for chicken marsala, grilled shrimp, salmon or sirloin steak if you're watching your carbs.
Step 5
Order your meal without cheese, and avoid dishes like lasagna and ravioli that contain layers of calorie-dense cheese.
Step 6
Order a lunch portion if possible, or ask your server to bring a to-go box with your food. Package up half before you start eating.
Tips and Warnings
- Many restaurants offer low-fat or low-carb menus. Ask your server.
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