If you’re like me, you have the best intentions when it comes to cooking for yourself and your family, but it seems like time is slipping away and you end up deciding to dine out. Eating out can save you time, but it can also be challenging to make healthy choices when you’re not cooking things yourself.
The good news is, with a little planning, you can make informed decisions before you even leave home. Here are my top 5 tips for dining out.
1. Plan ahead. This applies to both where you are eating and what you are ordering. Have a list of restaurants to go to where you know the menu well so you don’t have to waste a lot of time deciding what to choose. Have your family create a list of various places everyone likes and use it as a rotating list of places to go in a pinch. You can even add a new place that you want to try from time to time. Many restaurants post their menus online so you can determine if it is the right choice for you before you leave.
2. Read the menu carefully. Whether online or at the restaurant, take your time reviewing the menu options. Be selective about what you’re ordering and consider balancing your meal – if you choose a heavier entree, select a side of steamed vegetables. If you know you are going for dessert, choose grilled or roasted chicken or fish with salad as a starter and appetizer. If you really want something, order it and try it while you enjoy not having to wash the dishes after dinner.
3. Feel free to make special requests. Restaurants are often very flexible with their menus, including preparation methods. Ask if that sandwich you are interested in can be made with grilled chicken instead of fried chicken. Skip the bacon or mayo on the sandwich and choose a baked potato or salad as a side. Asking for sauces and dressings to be served on the side is an easy way to ensure food is seasoned to your particular taste.
4. Pay attention to your alcohol consumption. Alcohol tends to lower inhibitions and you may not be as in tune with your satiety signals. If you choose to drink, the alcohol guidelines recommend one drink per day for women and two for men.
5. Add volume to your meals. Increase the nutritional profile of your food by adding bulk. Order more veggies in your spring, choose veggie fajitas, or stack your burger with extra tomatoes, lettuce, and other veggies. This not only makes your food richer in nutrients, it also helps you feel full and stay full longer.
If you still find it difficult to fit a relaxed meal into your busy schedule, keep portable foods in your purse or children’s lunch boxes to prevent everyone from going hungry. Try nut butter and an apple, a trail mix, and individual packets of whole grains or crackers paired with a bar of cheese.
The good news is, if you have little time to eat once in a while, there are a few ways around it. With a little pre-planning, when the time comes, you will have the steps in place to find an easy way to go out to dinner. Plus, it has the added benefit of not having to clean up afterward, giving you even more time to spend as a family.