When you have the time and patience to buy fresh ingredients and cook up a healthy meal, definitely do it. Of course, this isn’t always the case. Whether you’re short on time, didn’t plan, you’re feeling lazy or you’re just straight up craving something not home-made, here’s a cheat sheet of your best bet for healthy(ish) delivery:
Sushi: It may seem like a light and harmless meal but beware, sushi rolls have a crazy wide range of calories (think between 150-600+). To cut calories and still enjoy, start with a green salad and as your main get a sashimi appetizer and a naruto roll (rolls wrapped in cucumber, no rice).
Diner: Diners typically have a bunch of delicious salads but the calories can still add up. Always get dressing on the side and instead of a heavy dressing, go for red wine vinegar and a splash of olive oil. Ask for no cheese and replace it with something nutritious (I do avocado). If you aren’t in a salad mood and want a burger, try to skip the bun (or at least half of it) and instead of fries get steamed veggies. Pick your battles, if you really want the side of fries, skip the bun or vice versa.
Thai: Coconut-based dishes tend to pack on the calories as do noodle dishes. Instead, start with a chicken satay, broth-based soup or steamed veggie dumplings and for your main, avoid coconut curry dishes, and instead get broth-based curries or a grilled fish or chicken main. If you’re getting tofu, ask for it steamed, often it comes fried if you don’t specify.
Chinese: Many Chinese menus feature a “diet” section which comes with steamed vegetables, brown rice, a protein and sauce. This is the perfect meal, just make sure the sauce comes on the side and use it sparingly (dip your veggies in it, don’t pour the sauce on top), and portion out the rice, don’t eat a full carton. If you’re getting dumplings or other apps, make sure it’s steamed (just like for Thai food).
Mexican: Who doesn’t love a huge burrito and chips? Well if you’re trying to be healthy, sadly I say skip it. Go for a Mexican salad, hold the cheese and try to avoid eating the giant fried shell it comes in (it’s hard to avoid, I know!). Instead of using dressing on your salad get guacamole and mix it around.
What’s your go-to healthy delivery meal?
