The Healthiest Meats You Can Have for Dinner
By Sara Butler
Protein is good for your health and is a part of a balanced diet. You’ve probably heard that lean protein, along with whole grains, complex carbohydrates, and fresh fruits and vegetables, are the key to a good diet, but what kinds of lean protein is best? Here’s a breakdown of some protein powerhouses that are always good to have on hand for dinner.
Sirloin
Who doesn’t love steak? You may have heard that red meat isn’t the best for you, but sirloin is a flavorful and lean choice. It has 25 grams of protein in one 3 ounce serving. Plus, it’s a top-round cut of meat, which often means that it’s less fatty than other cuts of beef, keeping its flavor without all that saturated fat you want to stay away from. In fact, you’ll only get about 3 grams of saturated fat in a serving of sirloin, compared to over 10 grams of saturated fat in a ribeye or T-bone steak.
Rotisserie Chicken (and Turkey too!)
When they prep a rotisserie chicken or turkey at the store, they do it without relying on a lot of added ingredients such as salt. That makes this lean cut of meat a better option than chicken made with salty sauces or deli meats.
Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are an inexpensive cut of meat that doesn’t get as much glory as the chicken breast but is no less good for you. What makes or breaks how healthy most cuts of chicken are for you are the way they are prepped, such as deep frying. Leave the salty marinades, breading, and sauces behind and go for baked chicken thighs with your favorite spices. They’re nutrient-dense and full of unsaturated fatty acids along with vitamins and minerals your body needs to maintain optimal health.
Pork
A pork tenderloin is a great source of protein to include on your shopping list. It’s lean and easy to make (hello instant pot!). Plus, if you’re sick of the same old chicken every night, pork makes a great alternative that is low in saturated fat.
Canned Fish
Canned fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce your risk of developing chronic disease when you eat them regularly. Make sure to look for fish that is canned in olive oil or water in order to help limit sodium.
Protein is an important part of your diet, but it doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Try these proteins on your plate tonight!
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