I love the weekends — two full days to spend having fun with my kids. In my house, that means baking cookies with my daughter (who happens to be tall and willowy — lucky girl!)...and inevitably eating the dough as we go along.

Between cookie calories and restaurant meals, my Saturday is a lost cause. I'll bet that eating healthy on the weekend is tough for most of you, too. In fact 75 percent of SELF readers told us they overindulge on the weekends.

At SELF, we don't believe you should ever deprive yourself of what you love — and that includes Saturday night at your favorite Mexican joint or All-American local hot spot. Instead, try these simple tips to manage the menu this Saturday night:

Start your meal with soup. We're not talking about a broccoli-and-cheddar fat bomb, or even the creamy clam chowder. But studies show that when people start their meal with a broth-based soup — think miso, minestrone or chicken noodle — they eat 100 fewer calories overall. That leaves you more wiggle room for dessert!

Follow the one-fat rule. I love this idea from SELF contributing editor Janis Jibrin, R.D.: Include only one fat in your order. That means you can have a burrito with cheese — but then you'll have to skip the guacamole and sour cream.

Order outside the entrées. Choose two small appetizers or an appetizer and a side salad instead of a main dish.

Any option should include lean protein and plenty of veggies. Some ideas: a small cup of veggie chili and a side of broccoli; grilled shrimp skewers and a green salad.

For even more healthy eating tips, check out SELF's Jump Start Diet.

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