Fresh and Vibrant: The Greenest Sides
For those prioritizing low-calorie, nutrient-dense options, the green sides at Protein House are an excellent place to start. These dishes are perfect for adding fiber and vitamins to your main course without significant caloric intake.
- Mixed Greens: At just 20 calories per serving, this is the lightest and simplest side option. It provides a crisp texture and a dose of vitamins and minerals to complement any entree.
- Broccoli: Steamed or grilled, broccoli is a fibrous and nutrient-rich choice with only 27 calories per serving. It is known for its high vitamin C and K content and is a fantastic way to boost your vegetable intake.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing and low-calorie side at 33 calories. It offers a cool, crisp contrast to richer dishes and is naturally gluten-free and vegan.
Complex Carbohydrates and Hearty Options
If your goal is to fuel a workout or stay full longer, Protein House offers several sides rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber. These options provide sustained energy throughout your day.
Root Vegetables and Legumes
- Sweet Potato Rounds: A satisfying and savory side, providing 90 calories and a good source of fiber and vitamin A.
- Sweet Potato Mash: A creamy and comforting side with 125 calories, offering similar nutritional benefits to the rounds.
- Black Beans: A solid plant-based option, black beans provide 114 calories, 7 grams of protein, and plenty of fiber.
Whole Grains
- Brown Rice: As a whole grain, brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice, with 145 calories and more fiber.
- Turmeric Rice: This flavorful grain provides 176 calories and has the added benefit of turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
High-Protein and Sweet Additions
For an extra protein boost or a naturally sweet treat, consider these side dishes. Cottage cheese is a simple, high-protein addition, while the side of fruit offers a light, sweet finish.
- Cottage Cheese: This side is a protein powerhouse, packing 14 grams of protein into just 103 calories.
- Side of Fruit: At 50 calories, this is a naturally sweet and refreshing dessert or snack that provides vitamins and natural sugars.
Compare Healthy Protein House Sides
| Side Dish | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) | Dietary Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed Greens | 20 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Broccoli | 27 | 3 | 5 | 0 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Cucumber Salad | 33 | 1 | 7 | 2 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Side of Fruit | 50 | 0 | 13 | 0 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Sweet Potato Rounds | 90 | 2 | 20 | 0 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Cottage Cheese | 103 | 14 | 4 | 3 | Gluten-Free |
| Black Beans | 114 | 7 | 20 | 1 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Sweet Potato Mash | 125 | 2 | 29 | 0 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Brown Rice | 145 | 4 | 31 | 1 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Turmeric Rice | 176 | 3 | 38 | 2 | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
Dietary Considerations: Vegan and Gluten-Free Choices
Protein House is committed to providing options for various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free lifestyles.
- Vegan Options: Almost all the non-dairy sides are vegan. This includes the Mixed Greens, Side of Fruit, Sweet Potato Rounds, Sweet Potato Mash, Broccoli, Cucumber Salad, Black Beans, White Rice, Brown Rice, and Turmeric Rice.
- Gluten-Free Options: Many sides are naturally gluten-free. For a full list of menu items that are or can be made gluten-free, it is best to check the official Protein House menu. The mixed greens, fresh fruit, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and rice are safe choices.
How to Pair Protein House's Healthy Sides
To build a complete and balanced meal, consider how each side can complement a main course from Protein House. For a high-protein, low-carb meal, pair a chicken or fish main with sides like mixed greens and steamed broccoli. If you need extra fuel for a long day or post-workout recovery, add a serving of sweet potato mash or brown rice to your entree. For a satisfying, high-protein vegetarian meal, add black beans and cottage cheese to a vegetable-heavy dish. The ability to mix and match makes it easy to customize your meal according to your macros and preferences.
Making Smart Choices
When ordering, keep your personal health goals in mind. For weight management, focusing on the lowest-calorie, highest-fiber sides like the Mixed Greens or Broccoli is a great strategy. If muscle building is your priority, augmenting your main dish with a protein-rich side like Cottage Cheese can be very effective. For those simply aiming for a balanced diet, incorporating a mix of vegetables and complex carbohydrates will provide a wide range of nutrients.
Conclusion
Protein House offers a comprehensive and thoughtful selection of healthy sides that cater to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. With options ranging from low-calorie greens and nutrient-dense vegetables to hearty complex carbohydrates and high-protein boosters, you can easily build a balanced and delicious meal. By understanding the nutritional content of each side, you can make smarter choices to support your health and wellness journey. For more information, you can always visit the official Protein House website to view the latest menu options and nutritional facts.
