Don’t think it’s possible? Our experts reveal the best guilt-free restaurant picks
Whether you love a bit of proper pub grub or are partial to a Greggs sausage roll, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that Brits eat out twice a week on average*. If you’re dieting, this can feel like a recipe for disaster. But you don’t have to resign yourself to staying in – or always lump for the salad option.
‘Many menus now offer a wide variety of meals, from low-calorie to high-protein. You just need to know what to look out for,’ says dietician George Hamlyn-Williams. Check out our experts’ choices – and enjoy dining out without sabotaging your weight-loss goals.
PREZZO
TOP PICK Penne arrabbiata (635 cals)
‘This is one of the healthiest pasta dishes at Prezzo,’ says registered dietician Elaine Loubo. It contains only 1.6g of saturated fat, 21g of protein and is low in salt. ‘Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene and vitamin C, both of which are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from free-radical damage.’ Adding a mixed-leaf salad side (166 cals) and a grilled chicken topping (53 cals) would make this more well-balanced, advises Elaine.
GREGGS
TOP PICK Smoky Cajun rice with barbecue chicken and sweetcorn fritters salad box (253 cals)
On a bed of brown rice, the protein-packed toppings come with a side of sliced spinach and pickled red onions. It’s 170 cals less than that tempting on-the-go chicken bake, but we bet it’s more filling. ‘Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that’s low in fat, calories and gluten-free, and far healthier than white rice. The oil and fibre present in brown rice also help reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol,’ says Elaine.
CARLUCCIO’S
TOP PICK Minute steak (676 cals)
‘Red meat is a good source of iron, zinc and B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which plays an important role in keeping the red blood cells healthy, reducing the risks of anaemia,’ says Elaine. ‘You can cut off any visible fat to reduce the total fat and calorie content of the dish and add a good squeeze of lemon to help with iron absorption and boost your energy levels.’ Served with roast potatoes, and topped with rocket and Parmigiano Reggiano, you could also swap the latter for a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A side of caprese salad (272 cals) is packed with antioxidant-rich beef tomatoes.
PIZZAEXPRESS
TOP PICK Leggera king prawn pizza (589 cals)
Seafood is a good choice – often rich in protein and low in fat. ‘This one contains only 6.6g of fat and 1g of saturated fat, making it a fantastic choice if you’re on a diet,’ says Elaine. And that’s not
