Finding a truly healthy meal at any fast-food restaurant, including Culver's, requires some strategy. While the menu is famous for its namesake ButterBurgers and indulgent frozen custard, there are several choices that can fit into a healthy eating plan. The key is to focus on lean protein, fresh vegetables, and mindful portion sizes, and make smart substitutions when ordering. By understanding the nutritional information of various items, you can make informed decisions to build a satisfying and wholesome meal.
The Contenders for 'Healthiest'
When evaluating the most nutritious options, we look for meals that offer a good balance of lean protein, fiber, and lower levels of saturated fat and sodium. Culver's has several items that rise to the top of this list.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
The Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a classic go-to for healthy fast-food eating for a reason. Instead of a fried, breaded patty, this option features a tender, juicy grilled chicken breast. As an employee on Reddit noted, it's a popular and flavorful choice. For an even healthier version, you can ask for it without the bun, transforming it into a high-protein, low-carb meal. You can also skip the mayonnaise and add extra veggies like lettuce and tomato for more nutrients without the added calories.
Nutrient-Packed Salads
Culver's offers several salad options, with the Garden Fresco and Cranberry Bacon Bleu being recurring menu staples. When building your salad, opt for the grilled chicken topping instead of crispy chicken. The Garden Fresco Salad with Chicken is particularly nutritious, offering a great protein-to-calorie ratio. To keep calories and sugar in check, choose a lighter dressing like Raspberry Vinaigrette and use it sparingly, or order it on the side. You can also pick off high-sugar toppings like sweetened cranberries on the Cranberry Bacon Bleu salad.
The Single ButterBurger (hold the cheese)
Surprisingly, a single ButterBurger with no cheese is one of the more reasonable choices on the menu. According to a nutrition guide from Culver's, a single ButterBurger has 390 calories. This is a far cry from the triple-patty options, which can contain nearly double the calories. This simple burger provides protein and can be paired with a side salad or steamed broccoli to create a more balanced meal. Skipping the bun is another option for those watching their carb intake.
Smart Strategies for Any Culver's Meal
Making healthy choices at Culver's isn't just about what you order, but how you order it. Here are some smart strategies to keep in mind.
- Choose Grilled Over Crispy Protein: Opt for grilled chicken, fish, or beef patties over crispy or fried versions to save hundreds of calories and grams of saturated fat.
- Load Up on Fresh Veggies: Add extra lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles to your sandwiches or burgers. Order a side salad to boost your fiber intake.
- Order Burgers or Sandwiches Without the Bun: This significantly reduces the overall carbohydrate and calorie count of your meal.
- Choose Water or Diet Soda: Simple beverages like water or diet soda can save you hundreds of empty calories and grams of sugar found in regular soft drinks and milkshakes.
Comparison of Healthy Culver's Entrees
To better illustrate your options, here is a comparison of some of the healthiest entrees, using nutritional information from Culver's and third-party nutritional databases.
| Item | Calories | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no mayo) | 380-390 | Low | 36g |
| Garden Fresco Salad with Chicken | 350-360 | Low | 45g |
| Single ButterBurger (no cheese) | 390 | Low | 20g |
| North Atlantic Cod Fillet Sandwich | 420 | Moderate | 26g |
Note: Nutritional information can vary slightly depending on preparation. The salad figures are without dressing.
Healthiest Side Dishes
Your choice of side can make or break the nutritional value of your meal. Instead of fries or cheese curds, consider these sides.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet excellent choice, steamed broccoli offers vitamins and fiber with very few calories.
- Side Salad: A small side salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to add more vegetables to your meal without adding too much fat or calories.
- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: While not as low-calorie as vegetables, the mashed potatoes are not a terrible option in moderation and can be a good source of complex carbohydrates.
The Verdict on Frozen Custard
While frozen custard is a Culver's specialty, it's not a healthy choice. A single scoop of plain vanilla or chocolate custard can contain hundreds of calories and is high in sugar and fat. If you must indulge, limit yourself to a single scoop and avoid mix-ins to keep the calorie count in check.
Conclusion
So, what is the healthiest thing you can eat at Culvers? The answer is not a single item, but rather a combination of mindful choices. The grilled chicken sandwich and salads with grilled chicken are excellent options. A plain single ButterBurger is a surprisingly healthy choice for a burger craving. Paired with sides like steamed broccoli or a side salad, you can create a wholesome and satisfying meal that won't derail your diet. Remember to customize your order to reduce fat, sodium, and calories for the best results.
