Four Healthier Alternatives for Takeaway Favourites on Just Eat

Written by: Ryan O’Connell
Published on 07 November 2024

With busy days at work, evening plans and more, it can be very tempting to open up one of the UK’s biggest delivery apps like Just Eat and get a takeaway delivered. Just Eat offers ease and conveniece when it comes to food which can be very important in a busy lifestyles. However, many popular takeaway meals, like fish & chips, pizza and more, can be high in calories and exceed daily recommended intakes.

While saving on your takeaway is easy with a Just Eat voucher code, it can be tough to save on your calories intake on those days where you don’t want to go all out and just need something quick and convenient. Thankfully, just because you’re looking for something healthier doesn’t mean you have to sacrfifice on taste or on the ease of takeaway. Many takeaway spots have healthier options that can deliver that same satisfaction without comprimising on your health goals. Whether it's swapping out a side, sharing a meal or making a small change to your order, we are breaking down some healthier alternatives for your faviourite cousines on Just Eat. In. fact, some of these changes might not only save you calories but also save you some money!

Indian Takeaway

Indian takeaway is incredibly popular with Just Eat customers. With a variety of options, it caters to different tastes, from mild to spicy. Popular dishes include chicken tikka masala, known for its creamy tomato sauce, lamb biryani, packed with fragrant rice and spices, and the fiery vindaloo. Accompaniments like naan bread, poppadoms, and mango chutney are also staples, making Indian cuisine a beloved takeaway choice nationwide.

However, the most popular choices at your local Indian can also be quite high in calories. If you fancy a cozying up with a warm curry after a hard day but want something on the healthier side, there are tons of options for you. Opt for tandoori dishes as the meat is grilled which will reduce saturated fat. You could also swap cream-based favourites like a tikka masala for tomato-based curries like a madras. For your sides pick up boiled rice instead of pilau and poppadoms instead of naans to make for a heart, healthier option!

Pizza

Another hugely popular takeaway option in the UK is of course, a pizza. An absolute classic known for its versatility and customisabilty, it caters to all tastes. With Just Eat, you can get pizza from your favourite chains such as Domino’s, Four Star, and Pizza Express, delivered at the touch of a button. However, pizza can be pretty high in calories depending on what you decide to pick up. Thankfully, there are easy ways to reduce the calorie count and still get your slice of Italy at home.

When it comes to ordering your next pizza takeaway, avoid cheese-stuffed crusts or deep dish pizzas and instead select a thin-crust. You can also get some extra protein and fibre by adding lean meat and veggies as toppings. A big mistake can be picking up dips at your local pizzaria, as favourites such as garlic mayo can be very high in calories. Instead to opt to use dips you have in the house like low-calorie mayo or bbq saue. This will also save you money, while keeping your meal on the healthier side. Another top tip is to add a salad on the side and share your pizza, for a filling meal that satisfies those cravings!

Chinese Takeaway

Chinese takeaway is a favorite in the UK, known for its bold flavors and wide variety of dishes. British chinese food is slightly different to more authentic options, and tend to be a bit more calorific. Favourites like chicken balls, crispy chicken and chow mein are comforting but often high in calories, due to frying techniques. While delicious, these dishes can be packed with excess fats and sodium, making them less healthy.

That doesn’t mean that you have to avoid the chinese when you’re choosing your next Just Eat delivery. There are a number of options that you can choose to stay in line with your goals while also enjoying the rich flavours of your local chinese. Simply swap out your side of fried rice for boiled rice and swap cripsy chicken in whatever sauce you love for just plain chicken or beef for a delicious meal that hits the spot. If you want a starter, try some steamed dumplings or soups instead of picking up spring rolls or wontons.

Fast Food

Last but certainly not last, fast food is super easy and convenient when you’re rushing in from work and need something quick before you head back out again. The comforting nostalgia of McDonald’s or other fast food classics are hard to turn down, but you don’t necessarily have to. As always, life is about balance and there are lower-calorie and higher protein choices that you can make to keep yourself full and fuelled for a busy evening.

If you’re looking for super low calorie options consider one of their grilled chicken salad or one of their grilled chicken wraps for something more filling. If you’re looking for something a bit plainer or more comforting, chicken McNuggets are a pretty good choice as they are lower calorie than more fried and battered chicken and have a high protein content. If you fancy something alongside a burger, wrap or other main, consider opting for a side salad or a side of fruit, to hit one of your five a day and avoid higher calorie options like fries.

While going all out at any takeaway once in a while won’t set you back on your health goals whatever they may be, keep some of our suggestions in mind for when you don’t have to prepare something or are simply too tired to do so. Also, while you’re saving calories, consider saving some change as well by using one of our Food & Drink voucher codes.