There's just too much cheery advice around, nowadays, about what not to eat when dining out on a diet; a great deal of it, irritatingly sanctimonious. And, as for those dreary suggestions and less than heartfelt reassurances that yes, a salad without dressing is just as tasty as the oil-drizzled versions - now, I for one, am far from convinced.
The trouble with all these undoubtedly well-meant tips is that they accentuate the negative, rather than short-circuiting the foodie system and coming up with something that is remotely positive and palatable. The mass of dietary-dining advice is so peppered with "don'ts" and "no-nos" that one is almost crushed beneath an avalanche of carrot and celery sticks - no dressing of course!
So, is there a positive (and more flavoursome) solution for the guilt-ridden gourmet, who likes to dine out? Mais certainement!
Take the positive approach to guiltless, gourmet dining. The key is to think global, rather than calories; think different cuisines. So, here are just a few suggestions to whet the appetite! How about...
Modern Mediterranean:
Today's Mediterranean cuisine spans such a broad culinary spectrum that it almost defies definition. But, one thing is certain - its popularity is based upon an abundance of fresh ingredients, all carefully prepared and delicately cooked to preserve maximum flavour.
Fish particularly, organic poultry and quality lean meats, lightly grilled; fresh tomato-based sauces, an abundance of green leaves and herbs; piquant lemon and herb dressings; delicious low-calorie seafood, including mussels, oysters (perhaps in a red wine vinegar and shallot sauce?). Hey...shrimps are a mere ten to thirty calories per ounce! And, while we're on the subject of calories, let's knock the myth that olive oil should be avoided. Why on earth would any self-respecting gourmet want to pass on the exquisite flavours of olive oil? Of course, we all know that it's high in calories; so what! But, as it's impossible to consume this heart-healthy, mono-unsaturated, bad-cholesterol-free champion of flavours, in anything but minute quantities, what, I ask, is the problem?
You see, the joy of Mediterranean cuisine, or Modern British, French, or Eastern European, for that matter, is the preponderance of natural, healthy, fresh ingredients that allows for a dash of indulgence; it's all a question of balance.
Thai:
Oh, the delicate delights of Thai cooking, where flavours and textures come through loud and clear and calories and health-hazardous ingredients are kept to a minimum. Even a decent portion of Green Thai Chicken Curry, for example, may contain as few as 400 to 450 calories. And, what about those glorious Thai fishcakes, at around 200 calories for a plate-filling whacker! Now, if you opt for a traditional stir-fry or Thai vegetable curry, both are deliciously low in calories - and no need to compromise when it comes to gourmet experience.
Mexican
A Mexican menu is full of surprises. Play smart. Opt for a meal of, say, chicken fajitas, tortilla and a large green leaf salad (drizzled, of course with olive oil and lemon dressing!). Now, in case you're interested, that satisfying combo, totals a mere 400 - 500 calories. So, go on, order that extra glass of wine...
Chinese
Chinese cuisine, in many ways, is ideally suited to guilt-free gourmet dining, because it tends to be served in a number of appetizing combinations of individual, small portions. In that way, you can savour a bit of everything, without feeling bad about it. But, if you do want a blow-out dish, all to yourself, why not go for the beef with green peppers in black bean sauce? Or, how about chicken chow mein, or modern takes on sweet and sour chicken, which offer a remarkably gratifying ratio of calories to gourmet satisfaction.
Indian
As with Chinese, Indian cuisine lends itself perfectly to sharing several dishes, which is a great way to introduce variety and different flavours, while at the same time paying sop to calorie control. Browse the menu beyond the kormas and take a fresh look at those tasty favourites, prawn madras or vegetable balti, for here you have flavour, without any of the guilt.
Finally, relax, and raise a glass (large!) to modern, healthy food preparation methods and light cooking techniques; for, whatever the cuisine, they are geared towards delivering fresh, quality ingredients, flavour and tantalising texture, as well as the smug satisfaction of a guiltless, gourmet experience. Enjoy!
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