Since the pandemic started over a year ago, many of us stopped eating outside our home. Some people stopped going in to work and most children are eating more meals at the house as well, especially if doing virtual schooling options. I have heard or seen around Facebook groups many mothers complain that they simply could not cook or plan one more meal.
Even though doing take-out often is not the best thing for our waists or wallets, it can provide some needed relief if you find yourself in the group of people who is tired of cooking. Take-out does not have to be a free-for-all of calories and with a few substitutions, a healthy meal can be at your doorstep. The following suggestions are not for people following specific diets, like keto or Atkins.
Healthy Options
- Grilled, lean meats
- Dressing and sauces on the side
- Brown rice
- Steamed or grilled vegetables
- Broth-based soups
- Whole grain tortilla or bread (bowl options are always a good choice too)
- Fruits
Things to Avoid
- Creamy sauces/soups
- Fried items
- Too much cheese
- Cakes or other baked goods
- Bread on the side (avoid white bread as much as possible)
- Sour cream
In our home, Friday used to be our going-out-to-a-restaurant night and for the past year, it has been our take-out night. We rotate through different cuisines and I try to find at least one healthy item from each place.
Specific Options Based on Type of Restaurant
When ordering Chinese, our family is a steamed dumpling fiend! There are typically pork or vegetarian options. Mediterranean is always a favorite as well. Hummus, grilled lamb and chicken, brown rice, and salads with dressing on the side as well as falafel in whole wheat pita make up a great, healthy meal. Don’t forget to also ask for all the creamy sauces, like tahini and tzatziki, on the side.
I love ordering sushi in the summer. Tuna and avocado rolls, California rolls, or any roll that doesn’t have cream cheese, fried (Tempura) items, or another creamy sauce are good options. American restaurants always have good options for hearty salads. I love Cobb salad without bacon and dressing on the side. Mexican food can be tricky but tacos with corn or whole-wheat tortillas and grilled meat, fish, or vegetarian options are lower calorie. Cheese and sour cream should always come on the side!
There are many other great cuisines I didn’t include here, but I hope you can all get a sense of the best approach to a healthy take-out experience. Please comment below with your favorite healthy meals when you do take out!
