Snacks to Avoid When Dining Out
While the main course often steals the spotlight during dining out, many would agree that sometimes an appetizer can shine just as brightly. However, not all snacks are created equal, and some can be not only unappetizing but also detrimental to your health.
When dining at a restaurant, whether it’s a high-end establishment or a local chain, the right appetizer can set the tone for your meal. One of the most popular snacks found in Japanese restaurants is the crispy fried rice cake topped with raw tuna, avocado, jalapeño, and sesame seeds. Often associated with the famous Nobu restaurant, this dish has garnered a large fanbase. However, despite its popularity, it is not always the best choice when eating out. The price of this dish is typically inflated, and the quality of the ingredients can be questionable. Many restaurants use tuna trimmings that are turned into a paste, making this dish highly profitable for the establishment but not the best option for diners. Additionally, a serving of crispy rice with tuna can contain a staggering 1240 calories, highlighting why this appetizer should be avoided.
French fries are another snack that should be off your order list. While their popularity is undeniable, no one would claim that fries are a healthy snack option. They are deep-fried, which should already give you pause. Many fried foods in restaurants are coated in industrial flour or corn starch, which can contain high levels of pesticides. The most common frying oils, such as canola, vegetable, and peanut oil, can cause inflammation. Furthermore, many restaurants do not change their frying oil as often as they should, leading to a long list of reasons to steer clear of French fries.
Blooming onions are another fried appetizer that dietitians recommend avoiding. They are high in fat, saturated fats, and sodium, making them an obviously unhealthy choice. A serving of such an onion can contain enough sodium to last you more than three days. Depending on your dietary needs, it is recommended to consume only between 44 to 78 grams of fat per day, meaning that one serving of blooming onion can exceed that limit by double.
Spring rolls may initially seem like a healthier appetizer, as they are typically filled with fresh vegetables and wrapped in rice paper. However, not all spring rolls are created equal. Some are deep-fried, just like any other fried snack, so caution is advised when selecting them. If you still want to try spring rolls, it’s better to make them at home to control the quality of the ingredients.
mozzarella sticks, while popular in pizzerias and Italian restaurants, are also not the best choice. This snack, which actually originated in France, has only gained popularity in the last 50 years. However, despite their popularity, mozzarella sticks can be very calorie-dense. When eating them in large quantities, you might not even realize how quickly you’ve consumed a whole plate. Therefore, if you really want to indulge, limit yourself to one or two sticks.
Chicken wings and strips are another favorite snack in sports bars, but they are best avoided due to their high fat and calorie content. They are often served with sauces that also pack in a lot of calories. Instead, consider swapping chicken wings for baked Buffalo cauliflower bites, which are not only a healthier option but also a delicious alternative that is becoming increasingly popular on restaurant menus.