“Top 12 Healthy DoorDash Options Dietitians Swear By” was written by Karina Makkar and edited/reviewed by Gabi Abreu, BSc and Jackie Silver, MHSc, RD.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is meant for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be personalized medical or nutrition advice. For a plan tailored to your needs, please consult with a Registered Dietitian or qualified healthcare professional.
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Last updated: December 31, 2025
Your Dietitian-Approved Guide to Healthy DoorDash Options
In today’s busy world, food delivery apps like DoorDash have become lifesavers. Whether you’re tackling late-night study sessions, juggling endless meetings, or simply craving a quick meal without the hassle of cooking, DoorDash brings your favorite meals right to your door.
With so many convenient choices, choosing healthy DoorDash options can be overwhelming. The good news? Eating well doesn’t have to mean sacrificing convenience or restricting yourself.
Here, we embrace a balanced approach—a mindset that all foods fit within a nutritious diet. It’s okay to satisfy fast-food cravings and treat yourself! In fact, it’s essential for building a positive relationship with food. With food freedom, you don’t have to choose between indulgence and nourishment; both can coexist.
Many restaurants on DoorDash now offer healthier options that fit right into a balanced lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll share tips to help you make nutritious choices when ordering through DoorDash.
By making simple adjustments —like adding more nutrient-dense ingredients to your usual order—you cans create meals that satisfy both your taste buds and overall health. You can have the best of both worlds—enjoying delicious meals that nourish your body and satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty, and we’ll show you how.
What Are Some Tips For Ordering Healthy DoorDash Options?
When it comes to ordering takeout, a few mindful adjustments can make a big difference. Here are some simple yet effective strategies for boosting the nutrition in your DoorDash orders without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
1. Use Filters to Find Healthy DoorDash Options
Many restaurants on DoorDash label certain menu items with tags like “vegetarian” “vegan,” “gluten-free” and more. These tags can be helpful if you’re trying to find healthy DoorDash options that meet specific dietary needs.
They also have a “healthy” filter which showcases plant-forward dishes like salads, bowls, and wraps. This can help you skip the guesswork and quickly zero in on options that are often more nutrient-dense and made from whole foods.
2. Choose Whole Foods
When browsing healthy DoorDash options, try choosing meals made with whole foods—like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—more often than ultra-processed foods. Using Canada’s Food Guide, aim to build meals with a balance of protein (like grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or legumes), fiber-rich carbohydrates (whole grains like brown rice or quinoa), vegetables, and heart-healthy fats (such as avocado or nuts). Including each of these elements in your meal not only adds nutrients but also keeps you fuller for longer.
3. Request Dressings and Sauces on the Side
Dressings and sauces can be flavorful additions, but they’re often loaded with empty calories, sugar, and sodium. Requesting them on the side lets you control the amount you’re adding, so you can enhance the flavor of your meal without going overboard. A small amount of sauce can add a lot of flavor, and when you’re in charge, you’ll likely find that a little goes a long way.
4. Be Mindful of Portion Sizes
Takeout portions can often be quite large, making it easy to overeat and feel sluggish afterwards. Consider splitting a larger meal with a friend or saving half for later. If you’re ordering solo and don’t want leftovers, look for options with smaller portions.
If you’re still hungry with a smaller portion, try adding in some extra protein and fiber. For example, if you’re having a small burger and fries combo, try adding a garden salad on the side for some added fiber.
Craving something sweet? Instead of finishing a whole box of cookies, enjoy 1-2 with a side of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for added protein and fiber. Adding these nutrient-dense components can help increase satiety, stabilize energy levels, and leave you feeling better overall.
5. Check Nutrition Information
Many chain restaurants provide nutrition information directly on DoorDash, making it easier to understand what’s in your meal and choose healthy DoorDash options. For example, by reviewing the nutrition facts you might notice that the sushi you want is very high in sodium. You can then compare it with other menu items to make a more informed choice and adjust your order if necessary.
For example, you might find that crispy tempura rolls are higher in sodium than salmon rolls and substitute one item for another. By making these small adjustments based on the nutrition info, you can enhance the balance of your meal without feeling like you’re restricting your choices.
6. Focus on Boosting Nutrition, Not Restricting
Instead of focusing on what to avoid, think about how you can add nutrients to your meal. Here are a few ways to boost nutrition:
- Add Extra Veggies: Many meals offer add-ons, so consider adding extra vegetables to your bowl, salad, or sandwich. Veggies add fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can help you feel fuller longer.
- Choose Grilled Over Fried: Grilled items often have less saturated fat and sodium than fried foods, making them a more heart-healthy choice. For example, grilled chicken or fish can be a tasty, lighter option.
- Swap Sauces and Condiments: Salsa, hot sauce, or vinaigrettes often pack plenty of flavor with less sodium and saturated fats than creamy dressings or heavy sauces. Salsa is a particularly great choice, as it adds a burst of flavor with a mix of veggies.
- Pick Fiber-Rich Sides: Sides like whole grains, beans, and vegetables provide fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and supports digestion. Options like brown rice, quinoa, black beans, and steamed veggies are all great choices.
These small adjustments can have a big impact, allowing you to enjoy takeout that’s both satisfying and nourishing. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to select healthy DoorDash options that taste great and align with your dietary needs.
What Are Some Healthy DoorDash Options from Popular Restaurants?
DoorDash offers access to a wide range of popular restaurants, many of which have healthier menu items or customizable options to fit a balanced diet. Below, we’ve highlighted 12 popular DoorDash restaurants, along with tips to enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
1. Chipotle – Chipotle is a great option for building a balanced meal with its customizable bowls and fresh ingredients.
- Order Suggestion: Build a bowl with brown rice, black beans, grilled chicken, and fajita vegetables. This combination provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy carbs.
- Custom Tips: Skip the sour cream or replace it with salsa or guacamole. Salsa adds extra veggies, while guacamole provides healthy fats that help with satiety.
2. Subway – Subway’s “build-your-own” sandwiches make it easy to customize a nutritious meal.
- Order Suggestion: Opt for a 6-inch sandwich on whole-grain bread with lean meats like turkey or chicken breast. Load up on vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and spinach.
- Custom Tips: Go light on heavy sauces like mayo and try olive oil and vinegar or mustard instead. If you need extra flavor, Subway offers various seasoning options that add taste without added sodium or saturated fats.
3. Starbucks – While Starbucks is often known for its coffee, it also has balanced meal and snack options for those looking for a quick bite.
- Order Suggestion: Try a protein box like the egg and cheese box with fresh fruit, or the classic oatmeal topped with nuts and fresh fruit.
- Custom Tips: If ordering a drink, customize it to reduce syrups and sugar. Opt for fewer syrup pumps or skip the whipped cream on top to cut down on added sugars.
4. Panda Express – This chain offers some healthy DoorDash options as well, especially if you opt for steamed or grilled more often than fried options.
- Order Suggestion: Steamed vegetables with grilled teriyaki chicken is a solid choice that’s lower in sodium and high in protein.
- Custom Tips: Choose fried items like orange chicken and spring rolls less often. Instead, add extra veggies for fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
5. The Cheesecake Factory – Known for its large portions, The Cheesecake Factory also has menu options that are more balanced and nutrient-dense.
- Order Suggestion: Healthy DoorDash items on the menu include their grilled salmon, white chicken chilli, turkey avocado sandwich, or salads with vinaigrette dressing. These menu items offer lean proteins, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats.
- Custom Tips: And we can’t forget the cheesecake! After all, dessert can absolutely fit into a balanced lifestyle. The Cheesecake Factory even offers a bowl of fresh strawberries on the menu, which makes a great fiber-rich addition to your dessert.
6. Tim Hortons – Tim Hortons offers a variety of healthy DoorDash options for both meals and drinks, making it easy to enjoy a meal on the go.
- Order Suggestion: Try the Grilled Chicken Wrap or the Veggie Habanero Wrap, paired with a bowl of soup and whole wheat bread.
- Custom Tips: For drinks, choose options with less sugar, like unsweetened iced tea or black coffee.
Check out our Healthy Options at Tim Hortons blog for more helpful tips!
7. McDonald’s – McDonald’s has healthier options that fit well with a balanced diet if you know what to order.
- Order Suggestion: A Grilled Chicken McWrap with lettuce and tomato, or a side salad with balsamic vinaigrette, are both more nutrient dense, balanced choices.
- Custom Tips: If sodium is a concern, check out our Low Sodium Options at McDonalds blog for more ways to make low-sodium choices at this fast-food staple.
8. Taco Bell – Taco Bell has plenty of customizable items that can be tailored to fit a healthy diet.
- Order Suggestion: Try the Power Menu Bowl with chicken, black beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo for a balanced meal. Vegetarians can opt for a bean burrito with extra veggies.
- Custom Tips: You can replace beef with grilled chicken or beans in many menu items, and add extra lettuce, tomato, or other fresh veggies for more fiber.
9. Wendy’s – Wendy’s has a variety of healthy DoorDash options like fresh salads and grilled chicken wraps that can be both satisfying and nutritious.
- Order Suggestion: The Apple Pecan Chicken Salad with vinaigrette dressing is a flavorful, filling option. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich on a whole-wheat bun is another great pick that’s high in protein and fiber.
- Custom Tips: A baked potato can be a more nutritious side as they aren’t deep fried and retain a bit more fiber. Hold the sour cream and instead add chives for extra flavor.
10. Freshii (a personal favorite) – Freshii offers many plant-forward and nutrient-dense meals, making it ideal for choosing healthy DoorDash options.
- Order Suggestion: The Buddha’s Satay Bowl with brown rice, tofu, and veggies, or the Oaxaca Bowl with avocado, quinoa, and black beans, are both nutrient-dense choices.
- Custom Tips: For smoothies, try customizing with almond milk, spinach, and fruit for a refreshing drink rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. You can also add in some greek yogurt or opt for regular milk to increase protein.
11. Pita Pit – Known for its Mediterranean-inspired options, Pita Pit offers a variety of healthy DoorDash options where you can build your own wraps and bowls.
- Order Suggestion: A Chicken Souvlaki Pita with tzatziki sauce and lots of vegetables, or a Falafel Pita on whole wheat with hummus and extra veggies, are both flavorful and balanced.
- Custom Tips: If you prefer a bowl, choose a rice bowl with lean protein and extra greens for a filling meal that’s high in fiber and low in unhealthy fats.
12. Sweet Green – Sweetgreen offers a variety of fresh, nutrient-packed salads and bowls, making it a top choice for healthy DoorDash options.
- Order Suggestion: Try the Harvest Bowl with chicken, sweet potatoes, kale, and apples, or the Shroomami Bowl with miso-glazed portobello mushrooms, rice, and avocado for a delicious and balanced meal.
- Custom Tips: Add extra protein like grilled chicken or tofu for added satiety, and swap creamy dressings for options like balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-tahini to boost flavor.
Customizing your order with small tweaks can make a big difference in the nutritional value of your meal. Opting for grilled items more often than fried ones allows you to enjoy your meal while adding more nutrients like protein and healthy fats.
When it comes to sides, consider swapping fries for a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a piece of fresh fruit. These choices are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and fiber which are important for supporting digestion and overall health.
Lastly, choose water or unsweetened tea more often than sugary sodas. These are great refreshing and hydrating options to complement your meal without the added sugars. These simple swaps allow you to enjoy your takeout while staying aligned with your health goals.
And don’t forget to save your favorite healthy DoorDash options to your account after ordering! That way your go-to nutritious options are always within reach, allowing you to quickly reorder next time. They can even serve as inspiration for meals you might prepare at home!
Conclusion
Ordering takeout doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health goals. With DoorDash’s variety of restaurants and customizable options, selecting healthy DoorDash options is easier than ever. By approaching your order with intention, you can enjoy the convenience of takeout while nourishing your body. As we’ve discussed, simple adjustments can make a big difference in keeping your meal satisfying and nutritious.
Exploring different restaurants and experimenting with customizations can also make your takeout experience more enjoyable and rewarding. Don’t be afraid to try new menu items or ask for modifications to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Eating healthy with DoorDash is about balance and flexibility. It’s a chance to savor your favorite foods while staying mindful of the nutrients your body needs to function and feel its best.
We’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite tips for ordering healthy DoorDash options? Do you have any go-to meals that make you feel your best? Share your experiences in the comments below—we’re excited to swap ideas and learn from each other!
TLDR: Healthy DoorDash Options
Eating healthy with DoorDash is absolutely possible, and it doesn’t require giving up convenience or your favorite foods. By focusing on whole foods, choosing grilled over fried options, adding extra veggies and protein, and using simple customizations like sauces on the side, you can build balanced, satisfying meals from popular restaurants. A food-freedom approach means all foods can fit, and healthy DoorDash options are about adding nutrition, not restricting enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Many DoorDash restaurants offer customizable meals that can be balanced and nutrient-dense. Small adjustments like adding vegetables, choosing lean proteins, and selecting whole grains can significantly improve the nutritional quality of your order.
Healthier DoorDash options often include bowls, salads, wraps, and grilled protein meals made with vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins such as chicken, fish, tofu, or beans. Examples include Chipotle bowls, Sweetgreen salads, Freshii bowls, and grilled chicken wraps.
Instead of cutting foods out, focus on boosting nutrition. Add extra veggies, choose grilled items, request sauces on the side, swap refined grains for whole grains, and pair indulgent items with fiber- or protein-rich sides.
Not necessarily. Many fast food restaurants offer balanced options or allow for customization. Restaurants like Subway, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, and Starbucks can all fit into a healthy eating pattern with thoughtful choices.
Yes. Regular takeout can still support your health when meals are balanced and satisfying. Consistency matters more than perfection, and convenience foods can absolutely be part of a nutritious lifestyle.
Restaurant portions are often large. Consider saving half for later, ordering smaller portions, or balancing your meal by adding protein and fiber rather than eating past fullness.
Great alternatives include side salads, steamed vegetables, beans, whole grains, soups, fresh fruit, or baked potatoes. These options add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal.
Water, sparkling water, unsweetened iced tea, or coffee are great choices. If ordering sweetened drinks, reducing syrup or sugar is an easy way to keep them balanced.
Use DoorDash filters like “healthy,” “vegetarian,” or “vegan,” save your favorite balanced meals in the app, and review nutrition information when available to make informed choices.
Not at all. A balanced approach includes enjoying foods you love. Pairing desserts or comfort foods with protein or fiber can help support satisfaction without guilt.
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- Healthy Options at Tim Hortons: A Dietitian-Approved Guide
- McDonald’s Low Sodium Options: Making Healthier Choices
- Navigating Fast Food: Burger King Low-Sodium Options
- Holiday Dessert: Copycat Starbucks Gingerbread Loaf Recipe
About Karina
Karina Makkar is a 4th year Food and Nutrition student at Toronto Metropolitan. She aspires to become a Registered Dietician specializing in Diabetes Education in the future. She currently works in food services at Mackenzie Health. Outside of school and her career, she loves making jewelry, going to concerts, and upcycling old clothing!
About Jackie
Jackie is a Registered Dietitian whose mission is to empower and support the neurodivergent and physically disabled communities through nutrition. Jackie runs a virtual private practice, providing services in Ontario and New York, as well as a blog which has simple recipes and health information tailored to these communities. She loves cooking, exercising, traveling, journaling, and spending time with family and friends.
About Gabi
Gabi Abreu, BSc, is a Nutrition & Dietetics graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University and the Blog & Social Media Manager at Jackie Silver Nutrition. She is also the founder of the Working Woman’s Health Collection. WWHC was created with the purpose of inspiring women to achieve a healthy relationship with food, while taking into consideration the busy lifestyles that we live today. Beyond her professional pursuits, she loves experimenting with new recipes, trying new workout classes, and indulging her love for adventure through travel!