Healthy never tasted so good

Summertime is upon us, and what better time of year for feasting on food? Backyard barbecues and sunny picnics at the beach call for burgers and hot dogs or ice cream cones and popsicles. Yet, for those health-conscious diners who crave more nourishing bites, sometimes the foods that are good for us are nowhere in sight.

At GRYLT, providing healthy, organic and delicious cuisine is the company’s priority. Corporate chef Shane Strong says that GRYLT focuses on using only the best and freshest ingredients to make its dishes.

And who says healthy cuisine can’t also be amazingly flavorful? Grab a handful of napkins because Braised Beef Sandwich ($9.25) is what Strong calls GRYLT’s “fancy sloppy Joe.” The beef is braised for six hours in a house-made Asian fusion sauce mixed with basil, mint and cilantro, making for a protein literally dripping in flavor. Laid between two thick slices of baguette, the popular sandwich also is dressed with roasted garlic aioli sauce, kim chee, lettuce, tomatoes and caramelized onions.

For something lighter but still filling, there’s nothing more fitting this season than Summer Baby Kale Mixed Salad ($9.95). Red leaf Manoa lettuce and kale are tossed with bits of feta cheese, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, strawberry slices, mandarin wedges and strawberry vinaigrette dressing.

Since the acai vinaigrette was discontinued, the strawberry alternative does not disappoint. Instead, the new dressing enhances the salad, not only with its vibrant pink look, but also with its delicious taste. “It’s like a smoothie on your lettuce,” says Strong.

If you’re in the mood to mix it up, try Surf and Turf Platter ($16.95). Diners may decide on their combination of surf and turf, and this week, chef Strong recommends fresh ahi with tri-tip Angus steak, served with cauliflower mash and a grilled vegetable salad of zucchini, squash, red onion, bell pepper and mushrooms. The ahi is seared with Hawaiian salt and black pepper to season, and the steak is cooked medium.

Other options for Surf and Turf platter include salmon, shrimp and chicken.

GRYLT

Kahala Mall
4211 Waialae Ave., Honolulu (with additional locations at Ala Moana Center, Manoa Marketplace and Kailua Shopping Center)
734-7958
Daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.