So many folks nowadays are trying to eat healthier foods and lead more active lifestyles. Many, unfortunately, think that dining at an Italian restaurant is now off the table, so to speak. Nothing is further from the truth. The Italian diet is, in fact, a very healthy one. If you do your research and know what to seek on a menu, you can make very healthy selections. Christini’s Ristorante Italiano is the premiere Italian restaurant Orlando, and our menu offers selections that are certain to please.
- If your Italian dining experience includes enjoying an appetizer, consider selections that include roasted vegetables, grilled or chilled seafood, or a tasty bruschetta. If you are really being good, consider having soup or salad with an appetizer as your meal. Just be sure to order a soup that is not creamy, which is calorie-laden, and choose one that is broth-based with lean protein or chock full of vegetables. If selecting a salad, avoid the heavy dressings and opt for a fresh lemon juice and olive oil vinaigrette.
- As tempting as it might be, yes, as absolutely painful as it might be, skip the bread. If you just can’t, limit yourself to one small piece and avoid using the butter. A little extra virgin olive oil with some seasoning will go a long way to satisfy that bread craving.
- Eating Italian doesn’t mean that your food choice has to be loaded with ricotta, mozzarella, and sausage, nor does it mean it has to be slathered in a decadent, rich, creamy sauce. Italians may enjoy a good lasagna or manicotti periodically, but their everyday diet primarily consists of roasted or grilled proteins such as chicken, beef, fish, and shellfish. Add a nice grilled vegetable, and you have a low calorie, tasty meal. Don’t be afraid to ask about food preparation, and ask for alternatives that might be more in line with your dietary restrictions. If you must, absolutely must, have pasta to consider this a true Italian meal, ask for a small side dish and choose to top it with a simple marinara sauce.
- This brings us to the touchy subject of dessert. Your head will tell you not to indulge in something decadent and sweet to complete your meal. Your heart and taste buds say to go for it, but there is a happy compromise. Consider ordering an espresso, or a cappuccino, accompanied by a small biscotti. If that won’t satisfy your sweet tooth, order a small dessert and split it with your dining companion.
Dining at an Italian restaurant in Orlando doesn’t mean not eating healthy. Italian cuisine, when prepared according to authentic recipes, is a healthy choice. The highly trained staff at Christini’s Ristorante Italiano is happy to discuss food preparation and healthy choices for your dining enjoyment. Come experience the best of Italian cuisine right here in beautiful Orlando. Reservations are suggested. Call us at .