Top Healthy Choices at Olive Garden, Recommended by a Nutrition Expert

Olive Garden is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, but navigating the menu can be a challenge if you’re trying to eat healthily. With endless breadsticks, creamy pastas, and rich sauces, it can be easy to indulge in calorie-laden dishes that are not the best choice for your waistline. However, with a little guidance from a dietitian, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal at Olive Garden while sticking to your health goals.

As a dietitian, I am often asked what the healthiest options are at popular restaurant chains like Olive Garden. While it’s important to remember that balance and moderation are key when dining out, there are definitely some menu items that are better choices than others. So, what is the #1 healthiest order at Olive Garden? Let’s dive in and find out.

When it comes to making a healthy choice at Olive Garden, one of the best options is the Herb-Grilled Salmon. This dish features a generous portion of grilled salmon, seasoned with a blend of herbs and served with a side of garlic-herb butter. It’s a protein-rich option that is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits.

In addition to the salmon, this dish also comes with a side of broccoli, which is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Broccoli is also low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to control their weight. The Herb-Grilled Salmon at Olive Garden is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which can help keep you feeling satisfied and energized.

One of the reasons why the Herb-Grilled Salmon is the healthiest order at Olive Garden is because it is lower in calories and saturated fat compared to many other menu items. While some of the pasta dishes at Olive Garden can easily exceed 1,000 calories and contain a high amount of saturated fat, the Herb-Grilled Salmon clocks in at around 570 calories and 13 grams of saturated fat. This makes it a more balanced and nutrient-dense option for those looking to make healthier choices while dining out.

In addition to being lower in calories and saturated fat, the Herb-Grilled Salmon at Olive Garden is also a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting a healthy metabolism. The salmon in this dish provides around 44 grams of protein, which is more than enough to help you feel full and satisfied until your next meal. Protein also helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent overeating, which can be beneficial for weight management.

Another reason why the Herb-Grilled Salmon is a healthy choice at Olive Garden is because it is made with fresh, whole ingredients that are prepared in a simple and flavorful way. The salmon is grilled to perfection, which helps to preserve its natural taste and texture without the need for excessive oil or butter. The herbs and spices used to season the salmon add a burst of flavor without adding extra calories or sodium.

The side of broccoli that comes with the Herb-Grilled Salmon is also a great addition to this dish. Broccoli is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which is important for digestion and weight management. By choosing a side of broccoli instead of a heavier option like pasta or potatoes, you can increase the overall nutritional value of your meal while keeping calories and carbs in check.

Overall, the Herb-Grilled Salmon at Olive Garden is a smart choice for those looking to eat healthily while dining out. It is lower in calories and saturated fat than many other menu items, while still providing a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The fresh ingredients and simple preparation of this dish make it a flavorful and satisfying option that can help you stay on track with your health goals.

In conclusion, the healthiest order at Olive Garden, according to a dietitian, is the Herb-Grilled Salmon. This dish is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while still being lower in calories and saturated fat compared to many other menu items. By choosing the Herb-Grilled Salmon at Olive Garden, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that is good for your body and your taste buds. So next time you find yourself at Olive Garden, consider ordering the Herb-Grilled Salmon for a healthy and flavorful dining experience.