When the weather starts warming up, many people move away from the heavy meals of winter and turn to lighter fare. Watching what you eat doesn’t have to mean compromising taste, however. Here are a few healthier restaurant menu options that are sure to please both your taste buds and your waistline.

Lighter Meals to Try at a Restaurant

1. Salads

When you’re going for a light meal, nothing beats a classic tossed salad. To keep it healthy, load up on fresh veggies and skip fatty ingredients such as meats and cheeses. Top your salad with a light dressing such as lime juice or olive oil, and you’ll have a low-calorie meal loaded with fiber and healthy oils.

2. Carb Replacements

Experiment with lighter versions of your restaurant favorites by substituting carbs with vegetables. Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, are a nutrient-packed pasta option, and can be made in the shape of any noodles. For a healthy spin on a burger, try a stack sandwich served on a bed of lettuce instead of buns.

3. Steamed Veggies

No matter what you choose as your main dish, you can still keep your restaurant dish healthy with a side of steamed vegetables. For maximum nutrition and interesting flavors, select a medley of veggies in as many colors as possible, such as carrots, beets, and broccoli.

4. Vegetable Pizza

Making healthier food choices doesn’t mean you have to give up pizza. Made-from-scratch veggie pizza is high in fiber and nutrients, fulfilling your cravings with none of the oily cheeses and preservatives. Stop by an Italian restaurant that uses fresh ingredients and grab a slice for lunch, or take home a whole pie for a healthy and delicious family dinner.

5. Lasagna Roll-Up

When you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, keep it light by opting for low-calorie versions of regular meals, such as lasagna roll-ups. Instead of the heavy layers found in traditional lasagna, this healthier variation is stuffed with vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, onions, and spinach.

Whether you’re in the mood for low-cal or full-cal Italian cuisine, visit The Pizza Haven in Rhinelander, WI. Established in 1969, this family-owned restaurant serves authentic Italian dishes made from never-frozen, fresh ingredients. Enjoy their made-from-scratch pizza, or order one of their specialty cakes for your next event. View their menu on their website or call (715) 362-5942 to reserve their banquet hall.