Welcome to our newest installment of Doctors' Orders, our series in which Midlands physicians share their go-to dishes at our favorite local eateries.

When it comes to eating out, it’s all about balance — finding dishes that are flavorful, satisfying, and still support your health goals. At Il Giorgione, that’s more than possible.

Dr. Mai-Trinh T. Pham of Palmetto Family Medicine would start her meal with the Spinaci, sautéed spinach with garlic and extra virgin olive oil.

“Starting the meal out with vegetables and fiber helps with satiety and regulates blood sugar,” she says. “Garlic is also a delicious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.”

For her main course, she’d go with the Capesante: pan-seared scallops with sweet corn and saffron purée, pomegranate seeds, hazelnuts, and a touch of chili oil.

“Scallops are both lean and high in protein,” she explains. “Protein helps your body stay fuller longer and aids in weight management, as well as muscle, bone, skin, and hair growth, immune function, healing, and hormone production.”

To top it all off? An affogato. "Gelato is a lower fat alternative to ice cream, and when enjoyed in moderation can help improve happiness — literally, by triggering the release of dopamine and serotonin."

If you're craving more inspiration for healthy choices that don’t sacrifice flavor, check out this month’s superfood spotlight featuring carrots.

Bite into these carrot facts