What is the nutritional value of Sweetgreen steak?
Sweetgreen's caramelized garlic steak, a pasture-raised and flavorful protein option, offers a solid source of protein but varies significantly in its overall nutritional impact depending on how it's served. A standalone serving of the steak has a different profile than when it is part of a larger protein plate or salad. Understanding these differences is key for anyone watching their caloric, fat, or sodium intake.
Sweetgreen's Caramelized Garlic Steak: The Protein and Macronutrient Breakdown
When evaluating the nutritional value of Sweetgreen steak, it's important to look at the macronutrient composition. A single, standalone portion is a good source of protein and fat, with relatively low carbohydrates. However, this changes dramatically once it is incorporated into a complete bowl, where the additional ingredients inflate the carb and calorie counts.
Here’s a look at the base steak component:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 24g (5g saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Comparing Sweetgreen Steak in Different Menu Items
The most significant nutritional differences appear when you compare the standalone protein with complete menu items. For instance, the Caramelized Garlic Steak Protein Plate, which includes warm roasted sweet potatoes, wild rice, and pesto vinaigrette, has a much higher nutritional load.
Here's a comparison of menu item nutritional profiles:
| Nutritional Aspect | Standalone Steak Portion | Protein Plate (Steak, Wild Rice, etc.) | Kale Caesar (with Steak) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal | 770 kcal | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 21g | 33g | 42g |
| Total Fat | 24g | 31g | 42g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 82g | 16g |
| Sodium | 1200mg | 1640mg | N/A |
The High-Sodium Consideration
One of the most important nutritional considerations for the Sweetgreen steak is the sodium content, particularly within composed dishes. The Caramelized Garlic Steak Protein Plate contains 1640mg of sodium, representing 71% of the daily recommended value. While many restaurant meals are high in sodium, diners should be mindful of this, especially if they are sensitive to salt or monitoring their intake for health reasons. For example, opting for a salad with steak may still result in a high-sodium meal depending on the specific ingredients and dressing chosen.
Health Benefits and Considerations of Sweetgreen Steak
Sweetgreen's steak is pasture-raised, a factor the company highlights as beneficial for both the environment and potentially the nutrient profile. Pasture-raised beef is often leaner and can have a better omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio, though this can vary. The key to making Sweetgreen steak a healthy choice lies in the accompanying ingredients. Choosing simple, vegetable-heavy combinations over carb-heavy or excessively dressed bowls can significantly lower the overall calories, fat, and sodium.
How Sweetgreen Steak Stacks Up Against Other Proteins
Sweetgreen offers a variety of protein sources, each with a different nutritional footprint. Here's a brief look at how the steak compares to other popular options:
- Miso Glazed Salmon: A protein plate with this option can have a higher calorie and fat count than the steak plate, but often with less saturated fat.
- Hot Honey Chicken: The chicken protein plate has a very high protein count and similar calorie profile to the steak plate, though often with less overall fat.
- Blackened Chicken: A simple blackened chicken can be a leaner protein choice, depending on the bowl's construction, and is a great option for those seeking high protein without the added fats.
Conclusion
The nutritional value of Sweetgreen steak is not a static number but is heavily influenced by the complete meal. While the standalone protein offers a robust dose of protein and fat, the sodium content is notably high, especially in composed bowls. For a healthier option, consider customizing your order with the steak atop a simple salad with a lighter dressing. By paying attention to the full nutritional profile, you can ensure your Sweetgreen meal aligns with your health goals, allowing you to enjoy the high-quality, pasture-raised steak as part of a balanced diet.
Here are some tips for building a balanced Sweetgreen meal:
- Prioritize vegetables: Fill your bowl with plenty of greens and other vegetables to add fiber and nutrients.
- Watch the dressing: Many dressings add significant calories, fat, and sodium. Choose a lighter option or ask for it on the side.
- Consider portion size: A protein plate is a hearty meal that may contain a substantial portion of your daily recommended intake for calories and sodium. Splitting it into two smaller meals is an option for portion control.
- Go easy on the extras: Toppings like crispy onions or cheese can significantly increase the calorie and fat content. Choose your toppings wisely.
Following these guidelines will help you navigate the Sweetgreen menu to make the most nutritious choice with the delicious taste of their caramelized garlic steak.
