Are you going to Disney World soon and want to eat healthy or watch your calorie counts? Don’t worry. It is very doable and actually fun and delicious, too! Many of the Disney Dining counter service restaurants have healthy options. Almost all of them offer an alternative to the typical burger and fries, or deep-fried chicken. Healthy side items such as fruit, steamed veggies, or salad are available. Also, a lot of places have a “Fixins’ Bar” that offers lettuce, tomato, and other sandwich toppings and condiments. You can always order a burger without a bun and load up on the fixins’ to make your own unique salad.
Before I tell you my favorite healthy options throughout Walt Disney World, I have two tips for keeping healthy while having fun in the parks:
First, make sure you drink plenty of water. Not only will it keep you hydrated in the hot Florida sun, but it will suppress some cravings throughout the day. You can ask for free cups of water at all counter service places in the parks, and resorts. You can also purchase bottles of water or bring your own re-fillable bottle. Britta makes a bottle with a filter which some people report takes out some of the tap-water-taste.
Second, make sure you don’t skimp too much on the calories. I know this sounds crazy, considering you are watching what you eat… but trust me. You expend so much energy by walking all day in the heat that you need to be sure to eat enough.
Here are my Top 5 favorite healthy food choices in the parks and resorts:
1. Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom has many healthy choices for entrees. My favorites are the Tuna Nicoise Salad (pictured above): mixed dark greens, sliced tuna steak with cold green beans, seared potatoes, marinated olives, sweet roasted bell peppers, fresh tomatoes, and a hard poached egg, and the Vegetable Quiche which is a crusted egg tart filled with mushrooms, green zucchini, green bell pepper, onion, and chives. It comes with baby lettuces with a Champagne vinaigrette.
2. Also at Magic Kingdom, I recommend two dishes at Columbia Harbor House in Liberty Square. The grilled salmon comes with couscous and steamed fresh broccoli. If you are going for less carbs, you can ask for double broccoli. I also enjoy the Lighthouse Sandwich. It has hummus with tomato & broccoli slaw on toasted multigrain bread. You can have a side of chips, broccoli, or ask for fruit.
3. At Hollywood Studios I always stop in at Starring Rolls Cafe for some sushi. The Spicy Shrimp Roll and Sushi Sampler are my go-to choices. I pair it with a fresh apple or banana. If sushi isn’t your thing, I also enjoy the baked 1/2 Chicken with baked beans and coleslaw at Fairfax Fare. It is enough for an adult and small child to share.
4. Animal Kingdom has a few great healthy meal options. At TamuTamu Refreshments, you can find a Vegetarian Curry with roasted root vegetables and tofu served over Jasmine rice. They also have a chicken curry. Want something less hot and hearty? Try the Roasted Chicken Salad: a blend of mixed greens and sliced tomatoes with diced chicken and dried fruit blended with mild African spices; it is served with pita and apple slices.
5. Epcot has TONS of food choices. Most people head to World Showcase for lunch and dinner and find a plethora of delicious options. However, I really like Sunshine Seasons in the Land Pavilion. They have a wonderful Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese Salad with a sweet honey sherry dressing. I also love the Oak-grilled Fish of the Day and chose the steamed vegetables as my side.
This list of healthy dining options at Disney World could go on and on. What are some of your favorite lite entrees or snacks in the parks? Do you have other tips for staying on a diet plan while on vacation?
