Share and Follow
Enjoying a flavorful meal under 500 calories at a chain restaurant is easier than you might assume. Many popular dining spots are now offering lighter menu options that maintain taste without compromising on calorie content. While these meals are designed to be deliciously satisfying, it’s wise to be cautious with high-calorie sauces and condiments. Here are five standout choices that won’t exceed 500 calories, perfect for those seeking a lighter dining experience.
Olive Garden’s Lighter Italian Fare menu features the Lasagna Classico, a delectable choice that comes in at exactly 500 calories. This dish is a harmonious blend of pasta, Italian cheeses, and a savory homemade meat sauce crafted with pan-seared beef and Italian sausage. It’s a flavorful indulgence that fits comfortably within a calorie-conscious diet.
At Cracker Barrel, the Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad offers a nutritious and satisfying option at just 440 calories. This salad is a medley of smokehouse grilled chicken served atop fresh greens, accented with hard-boiled egg, tomatoes, cucumbers, croutons, and Colby cheese, accompanied by crackers. However, be mindful of dressings; even seemingly light choices like the Balsamic Herb Vinaigrette can add up to 260 calories, significantly impacting the meal’s total calorie count.
Olive Garden Lasagna Classico
Olive Garden has a delicious Lasagna Classico on its Lighter Menu, containing just 500 calories. This dish contains layers of pasta, Italian cheeses, and homemade meat sauce made with pan-seared beef and Italian sausage. Lots of flavor for a reasonable amount of calories, this meal is an excellent option for anyone who wants a smaller option.
Cracker Barrel Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad
The Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad at Cracker Barrel is just 440 calories, a perfect protein-packed light lunch that won’t leave you feeling uncomfortably full. This salad contains smokehouse grilled chicken over fresh greens garnished with hard-boiled egg, tomatoes, cucumbers, croutons, and Colby cheese, and served with crackers. Keep in mind any dressings, even something innocent-sounding like the Balsamic Herb Vinaigrette (260 calories!) will make a significant difference to the overall calorie count.
Noodles & Company Basil Pesto Cavatappi
The small-sized Basil Pesto Cavatappi at Noodles & Company is 420 calories and a great choice for those who want to indulge in some delicious pasta without overdoing it. This dish contains cavatappi noodles in creamy basil pesto sauce, grape tomatoes and mushrooms, topped with parmesan and fresh herbs. The small Japanese Pan Noodles is also an excellent choice at just 320 calories: Caramelized udon noodles in a sweet soy sauce, broccoli, mushrooms, carrots, black sesame seeds, and cilantro.
LongHorn Steakhouse Flo’s Filet
Flo’s Filet at LongHorn Steakhouse is 330 calories for a 6 oz steak, coated with a signature Grill Seasoning and seared to lock in the classic buttery flavor. The calorie count can easily stay low if you opt for sides like the broccoli and a green salad without dressing. The dressing is always how they get you!
Bonefish Grill Salmon
The Salmon Plate at Bonefish Grill starts at 460 calories. This fish is lightly seasoned, wood-grilled and served with a choice of two signature sides. The Chilean Sea Bass is another great option starting at 220 calories, as is the 8oz Chicken Breast which starts at 390 calories. All of these menu options are wood-grilled, and bear in mind your choice of side could push the calorie count up.