Decoding the Menu for Healthy Choices
Eating healthy at a steakhouse like Ruth's Chris doesn't mean you have to miss out on the experience. The key is to be mindful of your selections, focusing on lean proteins, fresh seafood, and nutrient-dense vegetables while controlling portions and added fats. Many of the restaurant's signature items, while decadent, have healthier counterparts on the menu. A simple conversation with your server can also help customize dishes to fit your dietary needs.
Appetizers: Start Smart
Many of the starters at Ruth's Chris are rich, but lighter options are available to prevent calorie overload before the main course.
- Seared Ahi Tuna: At just 130 calories per serving, this appetizer is a high-protein, flavorful choice complemented by a light mustard-beer sauce.
- Shrimp Cocktail: A classic and clean option, chilled jumbo shrimp with cocktail sauce is a low-calorie way to begin your meal.
- Harvest Salad: This mix of greens, roasted corn, tomatoes, and dried cherries is a vibrant starter. Ask for the white balsamic vinaigrette on the side to manage your intake of fats and sugar.
Entrées: Lean Cuts and Fresh Catches
The star of the show at Ruth's Chris is the protein, and making a smart choice here is crucial. The restaurant uses custom-aged Midwestern beef, but not all cuts are created equal in terms of fat content.
- Petite Filet: The 8-ounce petite filet is the leanest and lowest-calorie steak option, offering a tender and satisfying meal. To make it even healthier, ask for it to be prepared without the sizzling butter.
- Salmon Fillet: For a protein rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, the salmon fillet is an excellent choice. It is broiled with lemon, butter, and parsley, but you can request to hold or reduce the butter.
- Petite Filet & Shrimp: This combination of a petite filet with grilled jumbo shrimp provides a delicious surf and turf without excessive calories.
Comparison Table: Steak and Seafood Nutritional Snapshot
| Menu Item | Calories (approx.) | Key Benefit | Customization Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petite Filet (8 oz) | 340 | Leanest steak cut, high in protein. | Order with no butter. |
| Salmon Fillet | 380 | Rich in omega-3 fatty acids. | Ask for minimal butter or oil. |
| New York Strip (16 oz) | 1390 | Richly flavored for indulgence. | Share this larger portion. |
| Stuffed Chicken Breast | 720 | Protein-packed chicken entrée. | Ask for sauce on the side. |
| Baked Potato | 800 | Fiber and potassium source. | Limit butter and sour cream. |
| Fresh Broccoli | 80 | High in vitamins and fiber. | Steamed without oil. |
Sides: Focus on Vegetables
Steakhouses are famous for rich, indulgent sides, but Ruth's Chris offers plenty of vegetable options that provide flavor and nutrients without the high calorie count.
- Grilled Asparagus: A simple and healthy side, especially when ordered without the optional hollandaise sauce.
- Fresh Broccoli: Simply steamed, this side is a nutrient powerhouse. It is full of fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Pan-roasted with fresh thyme, these mushrooms are a savory, low-calorie addition to any meal.
- Vegetarian Plate: This is a great option if you want to focus on vegetables. You can build your own entrée by selecting three vegetable or potato sides.
Smart Ordering Strategies
To make your meal as healthy as possible, a few simple strategies can make a big difference. Many items are served sizzling in butter, so don't hesitate to ask for modifications.
- Specify 'No Butter': Most items are prepared with butter. Politely ask your server to have your steak, seafood, or vegetables prepared with minimal or no butter.
- Order Sauce on the Side: Sauces like béarnaise or hollandaise can add significant calories. Ask for them on the side to control your portion.
- Split Your Meal: A standard steak can be very large. Consider splitting a larger, richer cut with a dining partner to reduce your portion size.
- Choose Wine over Dessert: If you are watching calories, it's a good strategy to choose either a glass of wine or a dessert, not both. Many desserts are high in sugar and fat.
- Ask for Seasonal Specials: Seasonal menus sometimes feature lighter, vegetable-forward options or fresh catches of the day that are less caloric.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Experience Guilt-Free
Eating healthy at Ruth's Chris is achievable with a little planning and mindful ordering. By choosing leaner protein options like the Petite Filet or salmon, opting for steamed or grilled vegetables as sides, and requesting modifications like 'no butter,' you can enjoy a classic steakhouse meal that aligns with your health goals. It's all about making informed choices to savor the high-quality food and fine dining experience without compromising your diet.
For more menu and nutrition information, you can also consult their official menus.
Key Takeaways
- Choose Lean Proteins: Opt for the Petite Filet for a lean steak or the Salmon Fillet for heart-healthy omega-3s.
- Customize Your Entrée: Request your steak or seafood be prepared with minimal or no butter to reduce calories.
- Prioritize Vegetable Sides: Select steamed broccoli, grilled asparagus, or cremini mushrooms instead of heavy potato dishes.
- Use Portion Control: Consider sharing larger steak cuts or ordering smaller portions to manage overall intake.
- Control Sauces: Always ask for high-calorie sauces and dressings to be served on the side.
- Start with a Light Appetizer: Begin your meal with a protein-rich starter like Seared Ahi Tuna or Shrimp Cocktail.
- Limit Indulgence: Choose between a glass of wine or a dessert to keep your total calorie count in check.
