For many, the new year brings resolutions centered around weight loss and healthier eating habits. This can feel daunting, especially with the abundance of restaurants in the Iowa City area. However, enjoying delicious meals without sacrificing your health goals is entirely possible. This guide highlights some of the best spots in Iowa City for a guilt-free and satisfying dining experience, incorporating information about specific menu items and restaurants known for their healthy options.
Nodo: Fresh Fare for Everyone
Nodo stands out for its commitment to providing fresh, customizable options to suit various dietary needs. A significant advantage of Nodo is its ability to adapt its menu to accommodate gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian preferences. This inclusivity makes it a great choice for diverse groups or individuals with specific dietary requirements.
Nodo offers a variety of sandwiches and wraps with fresh ingredients. Here are some examples:
- Seasoned brown rice & black beans, chorizo, yellow cheddar & pepper jack cheese, salsa, sour cream, guacamole & fresh cilantro.
- Sauteed roast beef, caramelized red onions, white cheddar & Guinness bbq mayo on toasted ciabatta. This option provides a hearty and flavorful choice for meat lovers.
- Grilled chicken breast with a roasted garlic-artichoke-smoked gouda spread & tomatoes on grilled sourdough. This option offers a lighter, more health-conscious option with lean protein and flavorful vegetables.
- Smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato & pesto mayo on toasted ciabatta.
- Smoked ham, mozzarella & mango relish on grilled sourdough.
- Marinated portobellos, caramelized red onions, spinach, fresh herbs and goat cheese on toasted ciabatta with aioli & fresh tomatoes. This vegetarian option is packed with flavor and nutrients.
- Tamari marinated pulled pork, spicy carrot slaw with jalapenos and garlic, cucumber, cilantro sprigs, haba-aioli on toasted ciabatta.
- Homemade white bean patty, haba-aioli, lettuce, tomato & pickle on toasted ciabatta. This vegetarian option provides a good source of protein and fiber.
- Smoked turkey, cranberry relish (contains dairy), cream cheese, fresh herbs & mixed greens in a whole wheat wrap.
- Roasted garlic hummus, kalamata olive tapenade, sun dried tomatoes, fresh spinach & feta cheese in a whole wheat wrap.
- Smoked turkey, apple, blue cheese, dried cranberries & toasted walnuts on mixed greens with honey dijon vinaigrette.
- Fresh spinach, asiago cheese, grilled chicken breast, caesar dressing and & garlic croutons.
- Turkey, grilled chicken OR tofu, guacamole, haba-aioli, goat cheese, ground pistachios, organic greens, in a toasted whole wheat wrap.
Nodo also offers classic options for kids, such as Grilled Cheese (Yellow cheddar on sourdough) or Quesadilla on tortilla. All soups are made in-house.
Leaf Kitchen: Simple and Tasty Healthy Bowls
Leaf Kitchen, located at 301 1/2 Kirkwood Ave (319-338-1909), focuses on providing healthy and straightforward options. A standout item is their granola bowl, featuring granola topped with yogurt, fresh fruit, and locally-sourced honey. This bowl offers a crunchy and filling way to start the day or enjoy a light meal while adhering to a healthful eating plan.
Read also: Healthy food access with Highmark Wholecare explained.
High Ground Cafe: Quick and Healthy Lunch Options
High Ground Cafe, with locations in Iowa City (301 E. Market St., 319-338-5382) and Coralville (925 E. Second Ave., 319-339-4390), addresses the common challenge of finding quick and healthy lunch options. Their strawberry spin salad is a popular choice, consisting of spinach, strawberries, cucumbers, Parmesan cheese, candied walnuts, and balsamic dressing. This salad provides a balance of flavors and textures while offering essential nutrients.
Bread Garden Market: A Haven for Fresh Produce and Customizable Salads
Bread Garden Market, situated at 225 S. Linn St. (319-354-4246), is an ideal destination for those committed to healthy eating. The market boasts a wide selection of fresh produce and a robust salad bar with an extensive array of ingredients. This allows customers to create personalized and nutritious salads tailored to their preferences and dietary needs.
Making Healthy Choices While Dining Out
While these restaurants offer excellent healthy options, it's important to make informed choices when dining out in general. Here are a few tips:
- Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods: Look for dishes that emphasize fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Be mindful of portion sizes: Restaurants often serve larger portions than necessary. Consider sharing a dish or taking leftovers home.
- Request modifications: Don't hesitate to ask for modifications to your meal, such as substituting a side of fries for vegetables or requesting dressings and sauces on the side.
- Read menu descriptions carefully: Pay attention to ingredients and preparation methods, as seemingly healthy dishes can be high in calories, fat, or sodium.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your meal to help you feel full and avoid overeating.
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