Quick question - going out for dinner

Hi

Just a quick question, I am going to a pub for dinner tonight, there is a salad on the menu but it is breaded mozzarella with piri-piri chicken. I'm not sure whether to go for this as it does have protein or fish cakes and chips? The salad seems like a healthy option but when you look closer breaded mozzarella is not exactly great.

I would guess that this salad is not the best option on the menu, although the only other thing you mention is fish and chips. I don't know what piri piri chicken is but if its with breaded mozzarella I am thinking it's probably not that great health wise either.

I would suggest scouring the menu for individual items that sound better like grilled fish or chicken, steamed vegetables, etc and put them together. I know typical pub food is greasy and a salad may sound like a better choice but not usually once you account for what's on it. I would be suprised if you couldn't create something healthier. Don't be afraid to special order - ask for grilled chicken on the salad instead!

Another idea is to ask for dressing on the side. If there are elements of the salad that will go off your diet just leave them on the plate (croutons perhaps!)

I agree with Bkeller - have them modify the salad to make it healthier (grilled chicken is a great choice), and definitely watch out for the cheese and dressing. Those are big culprits that make seemingly healthy salads jump way up in calories!! Get the dressing on the side so you can monitor how much you use and try to choose a vinaigrette-style dressing instead of a creamy one. Also, if you're really concerned about watching calories, skip the french fries.

I have learned to be very polite but firm when I order at restaurants. If the wait-staff is extra accommodating I make sure to tip more generously. Some restaurants are willing to be helpful and some are not. But I usually can get what I ask for. When I order I ask them to list EXACLTLY what is on the salad (or in the dish). If they give you a vague answer ask them please go find out the answer. If they are unwilling, make sure to get a different wait-person next time. When I order a salad I tell them I DO want x, x, and x and I do NOT want x and x. I always get the dressing on the side. If they are not accommodating I ask for a small bowl and pick out stuff I don’t want and toss it in my “discard” bowl. If the meat is breaded I ask if I can get it grilled or baked. If they give me grief I tell them I have food allergies. If they ask me if I am allergic to gluten I say “Yes, it makes my ass swell”…and then I give them a big smile. : )

I love this answer. Made me laugh out loud.

I have found that I just don't like the salad dressing choices most restaurants offer. I take my own. I measure it into a small (leak-proof) container and take it with. That way I know exactly what I'm getting calorie-wise.

I might also add that cheese, croutons and fatty dressings will take a healthy 30 calorie salad and turn it into a 190 calorie entree. Watch those sneaky additions.

http://eatthis.menshealth.com/home

this website is perfect for dieters that are forced to eat out often. It kind of give you a lowdown on what is the least damaging at restaurants. The articles have the most information.