Eat This, Not That: Outside the BC Bubble

While we like to tell our parents that we are eating at the dining hall every night to ensure we spend our entire meal plan that they paid for, this is simply not the case.  We often find ourselves attempting to resist the chain restaurants and local eateries that surround Boston College.  While I cannot provide you with the will power to say “no” to such temptation, I can provide you with a few suggestions on how to make eating outside the BC bubble healthier.

Panera Bread

You want: Mac & Cheese

Instead: Try the New Rustic Penne Bolognese

Yes I know Mac & Cheese is the epitome of comfort food and Panera does it oh so well but with 30 grams of fat in a small serving, it is not the healthiest choice.  If you are still craving pasta, check out this new addition to the menu.  With less than half the fat of Mac & Cheese and fewer calories, this could become your new Panera favorite.

Chipotle

You want: A Burrito

Instead: A Salad

Yes, Chipotle’s menu does include a salad and, if done right, it can be almost as satisfying as and definitely healthier than a burrito.  A Chipotle salad can be customized to fit your taste.  You can choose to add anything you would typically have in a burrito so you don’t loose all of what you want when you crave Chipotle.  It comes with dressing on the side but to avoid the high in calories/fat dressing they have, opt for the tomato salsa, which will add the flavor you’re looking for.

Fin’s

You want: Crazy Maki

Instead: Veggie or Salmon Cucumber Roll

As hard as we try, resisting Fin’s delivery is nearly impossible.  There is, however, a way to make this splurge a little healthier.  Try avoiding tempura because it can contain upwards of 20 grams of fat and maybe check out a salmon roll or veggie roll.  Veggie rolls provide a pleasantly crunchy contrast to the softer texture of fish and contain little to no fat.

Sometimes the dining hall just doesn’t cut it for us and we find ourselves venturing out of the BC bubble in search for something to satisfy our cravings.  When this happens just keep these in mind and you will be able to make this splurge a healthier one. 

Photo Sources:

panerabread.com

yelp.com

chipotle.com

• BC Health
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