The Three Healthiest Chain Restaurants
It's an understatement to say that the menus of most chain restaurants are not health friendly. If you're lucky enough to escape the excess calories and fat from the deep fried appetizers, you'll probably be hit with the rich sauce or the equally fatty dessert options. Is there any hope for having a healthy meal at a chain restaurant? The good news is that more chains are becoming health friendly by removing trans fats, and offering fresh salads and vegetarian sides as an alternative to deep fried potatoes. Several, in particular, have embraced the concept of healthy eating, at least to some extent. What are the healthiest chain restaurants?
Healthiest chain restaurants: Ruby Tuesday
While every selection at Ruby Tuesday isn't heart healthy or diet friendly, they do offer some viable choices for those looking for healthy fare. When you walk in the door, you'll immediately catch a glimpse of their bountiful salad bar stocked full of fresh veggies, nuts, and fruits. There's enough here to make a meal without ordering off the menu at all, although it's recommended that you bring your own salad dressing since they offer few healthy choices in this department. They also offer a variety of vegetable sides including steamed broccoli, green beans, and mashed cauliflower which can be substituted for the standard French fries. For entrees, check out their grilled chicken and fresh fish options.
Healthiest chain restaurants: Olive Garden
Although there's plenty of decadent options here, it's possible to have a healthy meal without damaging your arteries or your waistline. Stay away from the Fettuccini Alfredo and turn to the Garden Fare section of the menu instead. There are several chicken options available including the Chicken Giardino which is heavy on the vegetables and only has 480 calories. You can even make a meal out of the soup and unlimited salad. The minestrone soup with its hefty dose of lycopenes and antioxidants has only 160 calories per bowl. Go light on the breadsticks. The calories and carbs can really add up.
Healthiest chain restaurants: Panera Bread
This popular fast casual restaurant offers some healthy options, but use caution when placing your order. Some of the selections are deceptively high in calories. The Sierra Turkey sandwich sounds innocent enough, but has a stunning 950 calories for a single sandwich. A better choice is the Smoked Turkey Breast sandwich which has less than half the calories. They also offer a wide range of salads and a mouth watering array of soups that change on a daily basis. You can usually find a low fat soup option such as vegetable soup or low fat black bean.
If you're fortunate enough to have one of these casual chains in your area and are too tired to cook, keep them on your radar. It's guilt-free chain restaurant dining at its best.