Philly cheesesteaks are a delicious but often calorie-heavy indulgence. To enjoy this classic without completely derailing your healthy eating goals, carefully selecting your sides is key. This guide explores healthy and flavorful options that complement the richness of the cheesesteak without adding unnecessary fat, sodium, or empty calories.
What are some healthy side dishes to balance a Philly cheesesteak?
The ideal side dish for a Philly cheesesteak should offer a contrast in texture and flavor, cutting through the richness of the meat and cheese. Crucially, it should also be relatively low in calories, fat, and sodium. Here are some excellent choices:
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Large Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic and effective choice. The crisp vegetables provide a refreshing counterpoint to the cheesesteak, and the fiber helps with digestion. Consider adding some protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, for extra nutritional value. Avoid creamy dressings, which add significant calories and fat.
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Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts roasted with a touch of olive oil and herbs offer a healthy and flavorful side. Steaming preserves nutrients and adds a lighter texture. The slight bitterness of some vegetables beautifully balances the saltiness of the cheesesteak.
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Sweet Potato Fries (Baked, Not Fried): While fries might seem counterintuitive for a healthy meal, baked sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, and baking them instead of frying significantly reduces fat and calories.
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Quinoa or Brown Rice Salad: A light salad featuring quinoa or brown rice as a base is a fantastic option. These whole grains offer complex carbohydrates and fiber, providing sustained energy without the blood sugar spike of refined grains. Add chopped vegetables, herbs, and a light lemon vinaigrette for extra flavor.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and vitamins to your meal, offering a delicious contrast to the savory cheesesteak. Berries, melon, and grapes are excellent choices.
What are some low-carb sides for a Philly cheesesteak?
For those following a low-carb diet, you need to choose sides carefully to avoid excess carbohydrates.
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Large Green Salad (without starchy vegetables): Stick to leafy greens and avoid adding high-carb vegetables like corn or carrots.
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Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These vegetables are low in carbs and high in nutrients.
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Cauliflower Rice: A clever alternative to rice, cauliflower rice offers a similar texture but with significantly fewer carbohydrates.
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Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): These spiralized zucchini noodles can be served cold or sautéed lightly with herbs and garlic. They provide a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
What are the best healthy options to accompany a Philly cheesesteak?
The best healthy options are those that provide nutritional balance and complement the flavor profile of the cheesesteak without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats. Prioritize whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Choose cooking methods that minimize added fats, such as baking, grilling, or steaming.
Are there any healthy Philly cheesesteak recipes that include healthy sides?
While a traditional Philly cheesesteak is inherently rich, you can adjust the recipe to make healthier choices. Use leaner cuts of beef, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables to the filling itself. Pairing this adjusted cheesesteak with any of the healthy side options outlined above will create a more balanced and nutritious meal.
By incorporating these healthy side dishes, you can enjoy your Philly cheesesteak guilt-free, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious meal. Remember, mindful choices are key to maintaining a healthy diet while still savoring your favorite foods.
