“Healthy Cheesecake Factory.” It sounds like an oxymoron, but it really isn’t. With a mile-long menu, there are bound to be some options that won’t leave you with a food baby. After doing some serious research, I’ve narrowed the menu down to 13 healthier choices you should try next time you’re at the land of the cheesecake.
1. Chicken Lettuce Wrap Tacos
Carbs are great. Carbs are life. But, if you’re watching your intake, here’s an option that doesn’t sacrifice on the flavor. These tacos are available in two flavors: Asian and Mexican. The Asian chicken tacos (my personal favorite) come with bean spouts and a spicy cashew sauce, and the Mexican chicken tacos are garnished with avocado and salsa. Either way, you’re in for a light yet satisfying high-protein dish.
2. Seared Tuna Tataki Salad
Japan is known for being one of the healthiest countries in the world, and some credit can be given to its dependence on lean fish for protein and omega-threes. Tuna is one of its main delicacies, since it is nutrient- and vitamin-rich. This tuna salad is simple and allows the fish and vegetables to shine, following the principles of the Japanese diet.
3. Skinnylicious Summer Shrimp Rolls
What better way to celebrate summer than to try out some summer rolls? This Vietnamese dish is traditionally an appetizer, so it’s perfect to share with your table, although you might not want to. The shrimp, mushrooms, rice noodles, and crunchy asparagus pair beautifully, and dipped in a combination of spicy chili and peanut sauces, they’re addicting—and under 400 calories.
4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp
It’s hard to believe that this buttery pasta dish is part of the Skinnylicious menu at The Cheesecake Factory, but it is. Seared shrimp pieces are served atop a flavorful, tart sauce, accompanied by a generous serving of angel hair noodles. You’ll forget that you’re eating something healthy!
5. Grilled Steak Medallions
A personal favorite of mine even when I’m not trying to make #gains, the grilled steak medallions is a hearty dish that everyone at your table will lust for when you order it. It features medium rare steak with mashed potatoes (yum), mushrooms, tomatoes, asparagus and a boozy Madiera sauce. Steak, potatoes, and wine? Sign me up!
6. Skinnylicious Grilled Salmon
Some days, you just want to eat something simple and filling. If you’re in one of those moods, this grilled salmon is for you. The ingredients are straightforward: salmon, asparagus, and carrots, with a side of tartar sauce. But because you’re eating whole foods rather than processed ingredients, you get to eat a lot more bulk for fewer calories, so you won’t be feeling hungry for a while after this meal.
7. Tuscan Chicken
Grain alternatives to white rice have become increasingly popular, and The Cheesecake Factory took note with this chicken dish. It’s a grilled chicken dish with juicy tomatoes and basil, packed with flavors that will transport you to Europe.
8. Skinnylicious Turkey and Avocado Sandwich
Turkey, bacon, and avocado? It’s a match made in heaven—and, surprisingly, has some pretty great macros. It’s served with a side salad to get your greens in instead of fries, but considering how packed with flavor this sandwich is, you won’t be missing them one bit.
9. Skinnylicious Soft Tacos
These tacos are similar to the chicken lettuce wraps featured earlier, but they’re a great choice if you’re craving fluffy tortillas and different protein options. You can get either shrimp or chicken to accompany the corn tortillas, tomatoes, onions, beans, and cilantro (or not).
10. Asian Chicken Salad
This is the perfect lunch dish because it’s got all the nutrients you need to fuel you for the day and curb your appetite until dinner. Plus, it helps that it’s got cool toppings like wontons and almonds.
11. Mexican Tortilla Salad
This salad’s got the flavors of an authentic Mexican tortilla bowl without all the fat and carbs. Chicken, beans, corn, salsa, avocado, and sour cream are tossed in a vinaigrette and topped with a few strips of a crispy corn tortilla. Mexican food never looked and tasted so ~wholesome~.
12. Anything from the “Super” Food Section
The Cheesecake Factory recently came out with a “super” food menu featuring nutrient-dense ingredients like blueberries, kale, and avocado. Although these dishes might not necessarily be lighter in calorie (the antioxidant salad is almost 900 calories), it’s all fuel and no junk, so you’ll feel great after eating any of these dishes.
13. Original Cheesecake
Still have room for dessert? Of course you do! You’re at the Cheesecake Factory, so of course you gotta get some of that cheesecake. The original cheesecake is lower in calories than the speciality flavors, but it’s still got about 700, so split it with a friend and bond over your love of all things Cheesecake Factory.
Though it’s clear that there are healthy options at even “unhealthy” restaurants, I just want to leave you with this: one “treat” meal won’t make you fat or backtrack your progress. It’s perfectly acceptable and healthy to indulge, as long as it’s in moderation. So go out there and order a salad at the Cheesecake Factory, or even the carbonara. Just enjoy yourself and be flexible!