Offer up a variety of healthful menu choices that meet different consumer needs from low fat and diabetic choices to reduced calories and carbohydrates. Just as balance is the key to maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, the same goes for serving up a balanced menu of appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts. Make the extra effort to introduce a more healthful alternative to an already established favorite, while highlighting such options on the menu. It will be just what the doctor AND patron ordered.

Good things come in small packages and the same can go for menu offerings at your foodservice outlet. Your customers will thank you for downsizing the quantity of food included in "one helping." More portion-controlled items are being introduced on supermarket shelves (i.e., 100 Calorie Packs from NABISCO®) and the same can carry through to your foodservice outlet. Keep the portion sizes in check to make it easier for patrons to follow the "everything in moderation" diet model. Update your menu by offering half-size entrees for a reduced price.

Consider introducing a "tasting menu" so that your patrons can experience new flavors in reasonable portion sizes. Build on the popular culinary tradition of Spanish tapas, while spotlighting healthful portion sizes of everything from appetizers to salads and entrees to desserts. You'll also create a comfortable setting for guests to share the flavorful experience with others.

Adjust your cooking methods to include more healthful varieties. For instance, you can offer more grilled entrees with light toppings, such as a fruit salsa atop a grilled salmon. Shellfish and vegetables are delicious when steamed, while poaching main courses of chicken and fish in a clear, flavorful broth offers a delicious cooking method that adds flavor rather than calories.

Consider introducing slow cooking methods into your kitchen. Braising a lamb shank or pot roast allows you to tenderize the meat in liquid and then skim the excess fat off the top after it has been slowly cooked over time.