Swell/Nourish.Wednesday.1.25.12
#Bryan
No Excuses
So since New Year’s I have made it a habit to find healthy food choices at what would otherwise be considered un-healthy restaurants, such as Buffalo Wild Wings, The Greene Turtle, etc. I have actually been quite successful in the attempt and have come up with some rather tasty alternatives while retaining the nutritious factor. Here are some of the treasures I’ve dug up.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Asian Zing Chicken Salad: This delicious salad consists of strips of grilled chicken served on a bed of mixed greens and garnished with mandarin orange slices and five tortilla chips for scooping leftovers. It is served with a light Asian sesame dressing and of course BWW’s famous Asian Zing sauce, which adds a lot of flavor without sacrificing the nutritious factor. Personally, I take the Asian sesame dressing on the side and just leave the Asian Zing sauce. While specific nutritional information was not available from BWW, based on other similar salads I have eaten, I would safely estimate this scrumptious meal at around 450 calories for the whole thing, 500 if you use the Asian sesame dressing.
The Greene Turtle
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad: This jewel consists of strips of jerk seasoned grilled chicken served on a bed of mixed greens and cucumbers and is garnished with mandarin orange slices, fresh pineapple chunks, and chopped pecans. Lightly drizzled with a refreshing mango vinaigrette, this outstanding meal weighs in at 470 calories without taking anything off. Keep it coming, Turtle.
Hickory Grill
Teriyaki Chicken Salad: An eatery local to the Hampton Roads area, specifically Chesapeake, this Mom n’ Pop operation is renowned for great food at fair prices. This salad is no exception. Keeping it simple, this treat consists of strips of grilled chicken served on a bed of fresh mixed greens and garnished with mandarin orange slices. Drizzled with what I swear is a homemade teriyaki dressing, this piece of goodness checks at right around 400 calories.
I hope that after reading this you will take the initiative and find some healthy alternatives at your favorite chain or local restaurants. It’s actually kind of fun and challenging, not to mention rewarding, when you’ve had just as delicious a meal as your companions at a fraction of the calorie/sodium count. Your body will thank you later as well. Until next time, stay healthy my friends (yes, Dos Equis reference)