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Salads are usually included with a main course at an American-style restaurant. They are healthy because they are filled with lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and even chicken strips can be included. However, if you find a salad that is big enough for you, order a salad for your dinner and call it a night. Many restaurants have salads listed as options for main courses, so why force yourself to eat a salad in addition to another course? You might find yourself eating too much, so a salad is never a bad option.

Now to the main course. At American-style restaurants, these will vary greatly: anything from burgers to salmon fillet is fair game on their menus. Keeping in mind which side dish you are most inclined to order, pick a main course that does not come in a huge portion.

Ask your server, if you have to, how large a certain course is, and stay away from ones that are meant to be shared. While a whole rack of sixteen ribs is rather appetizing, it will spike your calorie intake, so if you're in the mood for ribs, go with a half-rack instead.