Spanish Cuisine: Healthy Eating Without Sacrificing Taste

There is always a new fad diet going around, and while these plans make losing weight sound easy

, they rarely give people the results they want. In the worst case, they can even cause weight gain. The truth is that the only way to lose weight is through eating the right things in the right portion sizes.

One of the few regiments that have worked for many people is the Mediterranean Diet, which incorporates many dishes from traditional Spanish cuisine. When people think about Spanish food, those who are not familiar may think it is the same as Americanized Mexican food and from there wonder why grease-laden burritos from fast food places would be considered healthy.

In fact, a true Spanish dish is very different. It incorporates fresh fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and ideally a serving of fish. While you should expect to see burritos and other deep-fried items on the menu, it is still easy to eat healthy.

Begin the meal with ensaladas (salad) with dressing on the side, and avoid adding cheese if possible. If you would like soup, consider having a bowl of gazpacho. It is a unique blend of tomatoes, fish and other vegetables that will take the edge off your appetite so that you are less likely to overeat later.

For the main dish, all you have to do is scan the menu. Look for a description detailing fish, grilled chicken, and vegetables. A grilled or selection of fish with garlic or olive oil is also a healthy option. The grilled meat will serve up an ideal mix of protein and good fats. If you are not in the mood for meat, try something with beans or nuts. Both options are further sources of protein, fats, and fiber that won't add on to your waistline.

A margarita may sound tempting. That is until you realize the average twelve ounce margarita contains as many as 550 calories of pure carbohydrates (sugar). Why ruin the healthy choices of your meal with a poorly planned drink? If you must have alcohol with your meal, sangria is not a terrible choice- but water would be much, much healthier and calorie-free. Also, many red and white wines are relatively low in caloric content (provided you exercise moderation) and pair very well with many Spanish dishes.

Important words you should take note of are frito (fried), cochinillo segoviano (roast suckling pig with skin), and Pollo con arroz (chicken with rice). The first two are self-explanatory, but the second has rice which may have some fatty additions. Such items can be skipped if on a very strict diet, but are otherwise fine if eaten in moderation.

By following these simple guidelines, it is more than possible to eat healthy food in a Spanish restaurant; in fact, it is recommended. Feel free to expand your culinary experiences with a menu of another culture. After all, now that you know what to choose as waist-trimming options, all you have left to do is enjoy.

by: Bill Oliveira

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