Carrabba’s Italian Grill: the place where garlic is its own food group and pasta flows like wine. It’s cozy, it’s flavorful, and it smells like Nonna just baked a tray of lasagna for you personally.
But let’s be real—some of those menu items? They’ll leave your waistline and your willpower in a puddle of melted cheese. If you’re trying to enjoy Italian night without a side of regret, you’ll want to navigate the menu with a little more strategy than “whatever smells the best.”
Because while Carrabba’s serves up some soul-hugging goodness, a few dishes sneak in with more calories than a small Italian village consumes in a week.
Don’t worry, though—we’ve got your back.
We’re diving into 6 Carrabba’s dishes to steer clear of (spoiler: they’re delicious but devious), and 6 lighter, smarter, still-totally-tasty alternatives you can feel good about ordering.
1. Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken
A luscious plate of Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken might tempt you with its creamy allure, but beware!
This dish hides over 1,500 calories and a dangerously high amount of saturated fat. Imagine buttered noodles cloaked in a thick Alfredo sauce, paired with juicy chicken.
It seems like a hearty meal but comes with a hefty calorie count. Not only is it rich in calories, but the sodium content nearly maxes out your daily limit. That salty taste may delight your taste buds, but it’s a silent health saboteur.
For those watching their waistlines, this indulgence might just be a step too far. Consider opting for a lighter pasta dish that won’t linger on your conscience or hips. Moderation is key when it comes to this caloric heavyweight.
2. Chicken Bryan
Chicken Bryan sounds like a simple grilled chicken dish, but don’t be fooled. This entrée is smothered in tangy goat cheese and a rich lemon-basil butter sauce, making it a calorie-dense choice.
Though the flavor is undeniably delightful, it clocks in at over 700 calories even before you add any sides. For those mindful of saturated fat and sodium, this dish might be more indulgent than you bargained for.
The creamy texture and aromatic herbs create a deceptive richness that can derail your healthy eating plan. If you’re seeking a leaner option, consider a grilled chicken dish without the sauce or cheese.
3. Lasagne
Lasagne at Carrabba’s is like a comfort food dream, but one that’s loaded with more than just nostalgia. This layered masterpiece of cheese, pasta, and meat sauce can easily surpass 1,000 calories, making it a hearty but heavy choice.
While it satisfies cravings with its rich flavors, it also packs in refined carbs, cholesterol, and sodium. Each bite is a reminder of culinary indulgence, but also of dietary caution.
If you want to relish Italian cuisine without overdoing it, try a pasta dish with a lighter sauce. You’ll still capture that Italian essence without the excessive caloric load.
Balance your meal with a fresh salad to mitigate the richness.
4. Calamari (Appetizer)
The appetizer of calamari at Carrabba’s may seem like a light start to your meal, but it’s anything but. These fried squid rings are deep-fried to a crunchy perfection and typically accompanied by rich sauces, bringing the calorie count to around 700-800 before you even hit your entrée.
Fried foods can contain trans fats if not freshly made, adding another layer of dietary concern. Though delicious, it’s a choice that can quickly add up in terms of both calories and unhealthy fats. Consider starting your meal with a lighter soup or salad instead.
You’ll satisfy your taste buds without filling up on empty calories before the main course arrives.
5. Mezzaluna (Ravioli)
Mezzaluna, or ravioli stuffed with cheese, sounds tempting, especially when drenched in a tomato cream sauce.
However, this dish at Carrabba’s, while delicious, is not waistline-friendly. A relatively small portion packs over 800 calories, making it a decadent choice.
The rich cream sauce adds to the indulgence while also increasing the fat and caloric content. Although the flavors are charming, they come at a nutritional cost.
For a lighter Italian experience, consider opting for a simpler pasta with a tomato-based sauce. It provides a satisfying meal without the caloric overload, letting you enjoy your dinner without the dread of overindulgence.
6. Tiramisu
Tiramisu might be the sweet ending to your meal you desire, yet it’s a dessert best shared if you’re watching sugar intake.
This classic Italian treat at Carrabba’s harbors around 600 calories, loaded with sugar and fat. Each forkful delivers a dreamy combination of coffee-soaked sponge, creamy mascarpone, and cocoa. It’s a dessert that pleases the palate but might not please your diet plan.
If you must indulge, consider splitting it with a friend. This way, you can enjoy a taste without the full impact of its caloric and sugary punch. It’s a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation, bringing a sweet finish to your meal.
Let’s now move on to some of the dishes that you should order instead.
1. Tuscan-Grilled Chicken
For a lean and tasteful option, Tuscan-Grilled Chicken at Carrabba’s is a go-to. This dish offers a well-seasoned grilled protein with minimal added fat, keeping the calorie count around 400–500.
The Italian herbs enhance the chicken’s natural flavors, providing a satisfying bite that’s both healthy and delicious.
Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious touch. This choice strikes a balance between taste and nutrition, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free meal. It’s a reminder that dining out doesn’t have to mean ditching your dietary goals.
Enjoy the simplicity and wholesomeness of this Italian-inspired dish.
2. Minestrone Soup
Minestrone Soup at Carrabba’s is the perfect starter that fills you up without weighing you down. Packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty beans, it’s a light yet satisfying option that usually stays under 200 calories per bowl.
This soup serves as a delicious appetite controller before your entrée. The rich aroma and nutritious ingredients make it a comforting and health-conscious choice. Consider this soup if you’re looking to keep things light while still enjoying a flavorful start to your meal.
It’s a taste of Italy that mingles nutrition with pleasure, setting the stage for the rest of your dining experience.
3. Wood-Grilled Salmon
The Wood-Grilled Salmon at Carrabba’s is a stellar choice for those seeking a heart-healthy and protein-rich meal.
With its healthy fats and fewer calories than most pasta dishes, this salmon offers a delectable way to dine well. Pair it with a side of grilled asparagus or sautéed spinach to complement the flavors and increase the nutritional value of your meal.
The smoky grill marks enhance the fish’s natural taste, providing a satisfying yet light main course. This option keeps your dietary goals in check while delivering exceptional flavor.
It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier dishes, proving that healthy dining can be both delicious and fulfilling.
4. Johnny Rocco Salad (Half Portion)
The Johnny Rocco Salad at Carrabba’s, especially in a half portion, is an excellent choice for a flavorful yet balanced meal.
Featuring shrimp and scallops atop fresh greens, it offers a taste of the sea without overindulgence. Request the dressing on the side and go light on the cheese to keep the calorie count in check.
The half portion is perfect for those who want a satisfying yet not overly filling dish. This salad brings together the freshness of seafood and the crispness of greens, making it a delightful option for lighter dining.
5. Pasta with Pomodoro Sauce
For a lighter pasta experience, Carrabba’s Pasta with Pomodoro Sauce is a commendable choice. This dish swaps the creamy Alfredo for a tomato-based sauce, keeping it flavorful yet less caloric.
The tangy and fresh pomodoro sauce pairs beautifully with whole-grain pasta if available. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost, turning it into a more complete meal.
This pasta dish is a nod to traditional Italian cuisine but with a mindful twist. It’s a balanced choice that offers the rich flavors of Italy without overwhelming your dietary goals.
6. Cappuccino or Espresso (for dessert)
Ending your meal with a Cappuccino or Espresso at Carrabba’s is a delightful alternative to a heavy dessert.
These coffee options offer a rich, indulgent flavor without the burden of excessive calories or sugar. Savor the warm embrace of a freshly brewed cup, whether you prefer the frothy texture of a cappuccino or the bold strength of an espresso.
t’s a sweet finishing touch that doesn’t lead to a sugar crash. This choice allows you to enjoy a flavorful conclusion to your meal, satisfying your palate while keeping your health in mind.
It’s the perfect compromise for those who love a touch of sweetness without the extra calories.
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