Nutrition

Sample Menus for Healthy Eating Out

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On any menu, some choices will be better for you than others. Check off some of the healthy choices listed below. Keep them in mind the next time you go out to eat.

Salad bars and buffets

American food

Fast food

  • Dark leafy greens, plain fresh vegetables, beans, fruit, and flavored gelatin

  • Low-fat or fat-free salad dressing, or vinegar with a little oil

  • Roast chicken or turkey breast

  • Grilled chicken and vegetables

  • Broiled or grilled fish

  • Low-sodium vegetable or bean soup

  • Turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread with cranberry sauce or mustard

  • Broiled, roasted, or grilled chicken sandwich—without mayonnaise or sauce

  • Chicken or whole-bean burrito—without cheese or sour cream

  • Baked potato with chives

  • Garden salad with low-fat or fat-free dressing

Asian food

Mexican food

Italian food

  • Steamed dumplings

  • Fish, chicken, or tofu stir-fried with vegetables—without soy sauce

  • Sushi or sashimi

  • Steamed rice or boiled noodle dishes

  • Chicken tandoori

  • Steamed vegetables with steamed or grilled chicken

  • Whole beans and rice

  • Steamed corn tortillas without butter or salt

  • Chicken or fish fajita

  • Arroz con pollo (chicken and rice)

  • Chicken or whole-bean burrito or soft taco—without cheese or sour cream

  • Minestrone soup

  • Pasta with tomato sauce or sautéed vegetables (pasta primavera)

  • Tortellini in tomato sauce

  • Pizza with vegetable toppings and little or no cheese or low-fat cheese

Online Medical Reviewer: Diane Horowitz MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Heather Trevino

Online Medical Reviewer: Kenny Turley PA-C

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2025

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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