Eating out doesn’t have to derail your healthy eating habits, especially when dining at Olive Garden. With a plethora of delicious options that cater to various dietary needs, you can enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Here are the top 10 healthiest dishes to order at Olive Garden, each offering a unique blend of flavors and health benefits.
Minestrone Soup
Minestrone Soup is a fantastic low-fat, fiber-rich choice. Packed with vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, beans, and spinach, it’s a hydrating option that provides essential nutrients. The high fiber content helps with digestion, and the soup is light enough to be a starter or a main dish if paired with a side salad.
Pasta Fagioli Soup
Pasta Fagioli is another soup that’s hearty and nutritious. This dish balances macros effectively, combining beans for fiber and protein, pasta for carbs, and tomatoes for antioxidants. The beans make it particularly filling, and the broth base keeps it relatively low in calories.
Herb-Grilled Salmon
For a protein-rich dish high in omega-3 fatty acids, the Herb-Grilled Salmon is an excellent choice. Omega-3s are crucial for brain and heart health. Despite being high in fat, these are the essential fatty acids your body needs. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to round out your meal.
Spaghetti with Marinara
This classic pasta dish is one of the healthier pasta options at Olive Garden. Marinara sauce is low in fat and rich in lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes. To boost the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken. This combination keeps the dish light while providing a good mix of carbs and protein.
Grilled Chicken Margherita
Grilled Chicken Margherita is a lighter option with high protein content and a side of nutrient-dense broccoli. This dish is flavorful yet not overwhelming in calories. Keep an eye on the saturated fat, but enjoy the nutrient boost from the lean chicken and fresh vegetables.
Create Your Own Pasta
One of the best ways to ensure you’re eating healthily is to customize your meal. Olive Garden’s “Create Your Own Pasta” option allows you to choose low glycemic index carbs like whole wheat pasta and pair them with lycopene-rich marinara sauce. Add vegetables and a protein source like grilled chicken or shrimp for a balanced meal.
Gluten-Free Rotini Pasta with Marinara
For those with gluten sensitivities, the Gluten-Free Rotini Pasta with Marinara is a satisfying choice. This dish provides high fiber and can be made more nutritious by adding grilled chicken. The marinara sauce keeps the calorie count low while offering antioxidants from the tomatoes.
Cheese Ravioli with Marinara Sauce
Cheese Ravioli is a protein-packed dish but can be high in sodium and fat. To balance this, add a side of broccoli or other vegetables. This not only increases the fiber content but also helps offset the richness of the cheese with lighter, more nutrient-dense foods.
Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp Scampi offers a balanced mix of vegetables, protein, and carbs. It’s ideal for active individuals needing more carbs for energy. The dish includes a reasonable amount of protein and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded meal option.
Lunch-Sized Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
If you’re looking for a lighter lunch, the Lunch-Sized Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is perfect. This portion-controlled meal offers manageable nutrition. The meat sauce provides protein, but you can also opt for marinara to reduce the fat content.