Vapiano, with six locations in the metro Washington region, prides itself on its European concept of serving made-to-order pizzas, pasta, panini, and salads. But while we dig the casual dining atmosphere, the extensive menu can be pretty overwhelming.
Registered dietitian Carlene Thomas took a gander at the menu and broke down the healthiest and worst pizzas, pastas, and panini to order next time you visit Vapiano. Read on for her suggestions.
PIZZA
Healthiest: Verdure
“You may actually get a serving of vegetables from this pizza,” thanks to the tomato sauce, roasted veggies, and mushrooms, says Thomas. “The vegetables will provide a ton of sweetness and flavor from the roasting process, leaving your palate satisfied.”
Worst: Americana
Zero veggies and two types of fatty, salty meats? This pie will leave you feeling sluggish all afternoon, says Thomas.
PASTA
Healthiest: Primavera
With zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, and roasted tomatoes, this dish relies on the vegetables and fresh flavors instead of sodium and fatty toppings, says Thomas. And the more veggies, the better—the added fiber will keep you full. Bonus points if you order whole-wheat pasta.
Worst: Carbonara
Thomas has one word for this fatty dish: “Yikes.” It’s got cream sauce, Parmesan, egg, AND bacon, and is, as Thomas says, “a vegetable desert.”
PANINI
Healthiest: Verdure
We’re seeing a trend here, says Thomas: the more veggies, the better. With roasted eggplant, zucchini, red and yellow peppers, and spinach, this panini is a nutritional goldmine.
Worst: Italian Turkey Club and Ham and Arugula
These two sandwiches are both so unhealthy that Thomas couldn’t decide which would be worse to order. They’re both extremely fatty, and topped with salty meats and just one vegetable.
More Lunch Breaks:
Jetties |
Cava Mezze Grill |
Union Market
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