When dining out we often find ourselves ordering chicken and fish just to stay true to our diet. Why don't you break the monotony and head to a steakhouse? While certain cuts of red meat get a bad rap for being high in cholesterol and saturated fat, the leaner cuts are very beneficial to your health. In fact, adding even one serving of lean red meat to your weekly diet will provide significant amounts of nutrients in the form of protein, iron, zinc, and naturally occurring B vitamins. Fear not, you can survive a steakhouse while dieting with our Top 4 Healthy Steakhouse Options.
#1 Don't fill up on Apps
Do you really need to order an appetizer when you are about to enjoy such a protein-dense meal that will clearly satiate you? Avoid the starchy carbs in the form of bread or rolls, potato skins, and loaded fries and, depending on the quality of the steakhouse, opt for a green salad with balsamic vinegar, vinaigrette or dressing on the side, as well as seafood, such as oysters or shrimp cocktail, to name a few.
#2 Do Order the Leaner Meats
London broil, filet mignon, tenderloin, round or flank steak and sirloin tip are the leanest cuts you'll find on the menu. Stick to 6-8 oz. and you will be very satisfied. A step up from the norm is to order grass-fed beef or bison, if available, as they are rich in the heart and brain-nourishing omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty cuts of meat, such as rib eye, porterhouse, and T-bone steaks can contain almost double the ounces and fat than the leaner meats, not to mention the significant increase in calories.
#3 Sides, Sauces and Desserts, Oh My
Steakhouses are known for their delicious accompaniments. From the creamed spinach, creamed corn, and au gratin potatoes to the béarnaise sauce doting on your filet mignon: keep the sides simple. Choose sautéed spinach, or corn with no cream, nix the potatoes and request some peppercorn be placed alongside your favorite lean meat instead. And the desserts, I suggest sticking with sherbet or berries. You'll be thankful in the morning after you step on your scale.
#4 Pair your Beverages
Most steakhouses offer a wide selection of wine and signature cocktails. Again, keep your choice simple here. Red wine is the obvious choice when consuming red meat. A good glass of cabernet sauvignon won't tip the scale too badly, provided you don't spend your caloric allotment on starchy carbs and unnecessary fatty sauces. If you do decide to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, pair it with a good 8-16 oz. of water throughout your meal and sip on the wine or cocktail slowly to be sure you keep the alcohol to a minimum.The next time you venture out into the dining world be sure to consider a steakhouse as a healthy option. While on a diet you can survive this nutrient-rich fare without overindulging and sending your calories into a tailspin.
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