Since its inception in 1981 in Atlanta, LongHorn Steakhouse has become a favorite for steak lovers nationwide. Known for its dedication to customer satisfaction and consistently high-quality menu, LongHorn prides itself on fresh, never-frozen steaks, including popular cuts like Flo’s Filet, ribeye, porterhouse, New York strip, top sirloin, steak tips, and chopped steak. Beyond steaks, the menu boasts a wide variety of options, from soups and appetizers to ribs, chicken, fish, and seafood.
For those aiming to maintain a healthy diet while dining out, navigating the extensive menu can be a challenge. Many casual dining chains, including LongHorn, offer dishes that may not align with healthy eating goals. This guide provides insights into making informed choices at LongHorn Steakhouse, focusing on lower-calorie and nutritionally balanced options.
Steering Clear of Calorie Traps: Appetizers to Approach with Caution
Many appetizers at LongHorn are calorie-dense and high in fat. The Texas Tonion, for example, contains 1,180 calories, while the Texas Brisket Nachos weigh in at a hefty 2,040 calories. Even the Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms pack 730 calories. These starters often contain excessive amounts of fat, saturated fat, and sodium, making them less desirable for health-conscious diners. Instead, consider opting for a cup of soup or a side salad to start your meal on a lighter note.
Smart Strategies for a Healthier Meal
Here are several strategies to help you eat healthier at LongHorn Steakhouse:
Choose a Smaller Steak
If you're craving steak, opt for a smaller portion size. This allows you to enjoy your favorite cut without overdoing it on calories and fat.
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Opt for a Steakhouse Salad
LongHorn Steakhouse offers several salads that can serve as satisfying and relatively healthy main dishes. Options include the 7-Pepper Sirloin Salad and the LongHorn Caesar Salad with Chicken or Salmon.
Select the Right Side Dishes
The chain offers healthier appetizers and side dishes, including veggies like broccoli, corn on the cob, Brussels sprouts, okra, baked potatoes, and rice pilaf.
Aim for Main Dishes Under 500 Calories
Choosing main dishes with fewer than 500 calories allows you to enjoy a side salad or vegetables and a cup of soup while staying within a reasonable calorie range.
Top Healthy Menu Choices at LongHorn Steakhouse
Here are some of the best low-calorie options at LongHorn Steakhouse, considering factors like calorie count, fat content, and nutritional value:
- Caesar Salad: A classic side salad with crunchy lettuce, croutons, shaved parmesan, and Caesar dressing. Consider adding grilled chicken or steak for extra protein.
- Shrimp and Lobster Chowder: A creamy soup packed with shrimp, lobster, red bell peppers, potatoes, and corn, topped with green onions.
- Sweet Potato with Cinnamon and Butter: A freshly baked sweet potato with a touch of cinnamon and butter.
- Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders: Six fried tenders offering 36 grams of protein.
- Flo’s Filet 6 oz with Lobster Tail: A 6oz center-cut filet paired with a grilled lobster tail.
- Blackened Chicken 9 oz: A juicy, tender 9oz chicken breast rubbed with spices.
- LongHorn Salmon 10 oz: Fresh, hand-cut Atlantic salmon in LongHorn's bourbon marinade.
- Flo’s Filet 9 oz: A classic 9oz steak option.
- Seasoned Steakhouse Wings: A popular appetizer choice.
- Renegade Sirloin with Grilled Shrimp: A perfectly cooked 6oz sirloin steak with grilled shrimp.
Spotlight on Specific Healthy Options
7-Pepper Sirloin Salad
This substantial salad is a top choice due to its appropriate calorie count, moderate saturated fat and sodium levels, and 5 grams of fiber. The field greens and tomatoes provide essential vitamins and nutrients, including vitamins A and C, folate, and beneficial carotenoids.
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LongHorn Salmon
Salmon is an excellent choice for dining out. It’s rich in heart-healthy fats and protein. The LongHorn Salmon, featuring fresh, hand-cut Atlantic salmon in Longhorn's famous bourbon marinade, contains 430 calories.
Grilled Shrimp
Shrimp is a protein powerhouse without a significant amount of calories. While the shrimp entree itself is only 160 calories, consider adding sides to create a complete meal.
Flo’s Filet
This “tender center cut” steak is packed with protein, very low in carbs, and relatively modest in fat compared to other steak cuts.
The Importance of Sides and Dressings
Entrees often come with sides, so choosing wisely is essential. LongHorn Steakhouse has some excellent low calorie sides including fresh seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, and mixed green side salad.
Salad dressings can significantly impact the nutritional value of your meal. Use dressings sparingly to avoid excess fat, sugar, and calories.
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Calorie Deficit and Dining Out
When aiming for weight loss, remember that it’s about calories in versus calories out. You can enjoy food outside the house while maintaining a calorie deficit by making smart choices and modifications. Choose a few different options from the menu in case your first choice is unavailable. You can also ask for items to be removed or swapped to customize your meal.
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