Eat Right Practice Exam

Which lunch menu reflects proper menu planning principles?

1. Steamed haddock, rice, roasted cauliflower, vanilla frozen yogurt

2. Baked pork chop, sautéed broccoli, rice pilaf, vanilla frozen yogurt with strawberries

3. Grilled chicken breast, mashed potatoes, steamed parsnips, lemon sorbet

4. Meatballs, tiny whole potatoes, brussels sprouts, fresh bing cherries

The correct answer is: Baked pork chop, sautéed broccoli, rice pilaf, vanilla frozen yogurt with strawberries

The correct choice is characterized by several principles of menu planning that contribute to a balanced meal. This menu includes a well-rounded combination of protein (baked pork chop), vegetables (sautéed broccoli), carbohydrates (rice pilaf), and a dessert that incorporates fruit (vanilla frozen yogurt with strawberries). In considering nutrient balance, the baked pork chop provides essential protein and iron, while sautéed broccoli adds fiber, vitamins A and C, and an array of antioxidants. Rice pilaf serves as a healthy carbohydrate source, contributing energy and additional nutrients. The inclusion of both the vanilla frozen yogurt and strawberries for dessert provides a sweet ending while also offering a fruit source, enhancing the overall nutritional profile and visual appeal of the meal. Further, this menu demonstrates variety, not just in food groups but also in colors and textures, which can enhance the dining experience and encourage consumption of a diverse range of nutrients. Additionally, the combination of lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and fruit promotes satiety and can help meet dietary guidelines around balanced eating. In comparison, other menu options may lack in some areas, either by not providing a balance of food groups or by offering less variety in terms of nutrient content.