Business & Tech

Where Are the Healthy Take-Out Options in Puyallup?

Ordering in can actually be good for you. Find healthy dishes in Puyallup.

Written by Dana Leigh Smith

According to a recent survey of over 1,000 Americans, more than 40 percent order takeout at least once a week. While many may assume this habit is contributing to our nation’s expanding waistline, the study actually revealed that people tend to consume healthier fare when bringing food in compared to dining out. 

Why? People are more apt to indulge in bread, appetizers, side dishes and dessert when they eat out, but skip the extra sources of calories when then bringing food home. Although ordering-in appears to be the smarter choice, not all foods are fair game if you’re trying to stay trim. Here, Libby Mills, MS, RDN, LDN, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Spokesperson, weighs in on the healthiest takeout dishes from a variety of local eats.

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Ayothaya Thai Cuisine

4102 South Meridian Ste. E-2
253-841-7599
(Thai)

Vegetarian options like Phad Ped or Broccoli Oyster Sauce are healthy, high fiber picks, which can help lower cholesterol. If you aren’t ready to give up your go-to favorites, order a side of steamed vegetables and stir them into your meal to lower overall calories per serving, and boost fiber and nutrients. To lower calories even more, opt for sauce on the side or have your dish prepared in a broth, suggests Mills. Also, ask that your dish be prepared without monosodium glutamate (MSG), to help control blood pressure.

Karma Fine Indian Cuisine

12623 Meridian Ave E
(253) 770-6276
(Indian)

Avoid “pakora” dishes, which are battered and fried and steer clear of Naan which is typically brushed with ghee – a clarified high-fat butter. Instead, opt for low-fat, high fiber and protein dishes like Dal Makhani—a lentil-based option— or Channa Masala—a garbanzo bean dish. Meat and veggie kabobs and whole wheat tandoori dishes like Aloo Gobi is another low-cal picks, full of belly-filling fiber.

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Crockett's Public House

118 E Stewart Ave
(253) 466-3075
(American)

In lieu of a traditional beef patty, opt for a less-artery clogging veggie, turkey, bison or salmon burger, and substitute fries for steamed veggies or a side salad with oil and vinegar, suggests Mills. If you order wings, get them as an appetizer for sharing, and ask for extra celery to keep you full. Avoid ordering foods described as deep or pan-fried, basted, batter-dipped, breaded, crispy, creamy, scalloped, au gratin or Alfredo which are all high in fat and can increase heart disease risk.

It's Greek To Me

328 S Meridian
(253) 200-2333
(Greek)

Steer clear of fried calamari, saganaki (fried cheese) and fried zucchini. Beware of moussaka, baklava and other high-cal foods made with phylo dough. Instead, opt for dolmas (steamed grape leaves stuffed with rice and vegetable seasoning) and kabobs of grilled meats and vegetables. Still hungry? Hummus and tzatziki sauce served with whole wheat pita bread and sliced veggies make for a healthy side dish to share, says Mills.


El Toro 

12115 Canyon Road E
(253)-256-4639
(Mexican)

When ordering Mexican, shrimp or chicken fajitas are your best bet. Order the sour cream on the side or skip it altogether and ask for extra vegetables for added nutrients and fiber. A taco salad—sans the deep fried shell—is a flavorful, healthy option, said Mills. Have the chef hold the dressing and order a side of salsa to use as a low-cal dressing. Other healthy picks include a protein and fiber-rich bean burrito and oven-roasted chili relleno.

Where is your favorite place for takeout food that is healthy and delicious? Tell us in the comments. 


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