If you're looking for a crunchy and flavorful snack, 1/3 cup (30 g) Santa Fe Corn Stix may be the answer. This delicious snack contains 140 calories that will give you the energy boost you need to keep going throughout the day.
In addition to the calories, Santa Fe Corn Stix offer several nutrients to support your health. These include protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins B1 and E.
Let's take a closer look at the benefits and precautions of consuming Santa Fe Corn Stix, as well as some ideas to incorporate them into your diet.
Calories in Santa Fe Corn Stix
As mentioned earlier, 1/3 cup (30 g) of Santa Fe Corn Stix contains 140 calories. This makes it a good snack option for those trying to maintain their weight or lose some pounds. However, it's essential to consume them in moderation as too much of anything can be harmful.
Composition of Santa Fe Corn Stix
Santa Fe Corn Stix are made from corn, vegetable oil, and seasoning. The seasoning consists of spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder, which give it a distinct flavor. It's worth noting that corn is a gluten-free grain, making it an excellent snack option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Ingredients of Santa Fe Corn Stix
To make Santa Fe Corn Stix at home, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cornmeal
- 1/2 cup of flour (gluten-free or wheat flour)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 cup of water
Mix the cornmeal, flour, spices, and salt in a bowl. Add the oil and water, and mix again until a dough forms. Roll the dough into thin sticks and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving Size of Santa Fe Corn Stix
The serving size of Santa Fe Corn Stix is 1/3 cup (30 g). This is equivalent to about three handfuls of the snack. It's essential to measure your portion sizes to avoid overeating and consuming too many calories.
How to Include Santa Fe Corn Stix in Your Diet
Santa Fe Corn Stix are a versatile snack that you can incorporate into your diet in many different ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Eat them as a standalone snack between meals.
- Add them to your favorite soup or salad as a crunchy topping.
- Crush them and use as a coating for chicken or fish before baking.
- Enjoy them with salsa, guacamole, or hummus as a dip.
- Mix them with your favorite nuts and dried fruits for a homemade trail mix.
Health Benefits of Santa Fe Corn Stix
Santa Fe Corn Stix offer several health benefits that make them a great snack option. Here are a few of their benefits:
- The high fiber content in corn helps regulate your digestive system and prevent constipation.
- The iron in corn helps transport oxygen throughout your body, which aids in energy production.
- The B vitamins in corn (including B1) are essential for brain function and overall mental health.
- The vitamin E in corn acts as an antioxidant, preventing cell damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Precautions to Take While Consuming Santa Fe Corn Stix
While Santa Fe Corn Stix offer many benefits, it's important to consume them in moderation to avoid overeating and consuming too many calories. Here are some precautions to take while consuming these snacks:
- Measure your serving sizes and avoid eating straight from the bag to control your portions.
- Balance your snacks with other nutrient-dense foods to meet your nutritional needs.
- Avoid consuming them if you have a corn allergy or intolerance.
- Choose the baked version over the fried one to reduce your intake of unhealthy fats and calories.
Storage Guidelines for Santa Fe Corn Stix
To keep your Santa Fe Corn Stix fresh and crunchy, follow these storage guidelines:
- Store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture and air from entering.
- Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause them to become stale or moldy.
- Keep them at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.
- Check the expiration date and consume them before they expire to avoid consuming stale or spoiled food.
Alternative Snacks with Similar Calories
If you're looking for alternative snacks with similar calories to Santa Fe Corn Stix, here are a few options to try:
- Popcorn (air-popped without added butter or oil): 1 cup (8 g) contains 31 calories.
- Celery sticks with hummus: 1 medium celery stalk (40 g) contains 6 calories, and 2 tablespoons of hummus (28 g) contain 46 calories.
- Rice cakes with peanut butter: 1 rice cake (9 g) contains 35 calories, and 1 tablespoon of peanut butter (16 g) contains 94 calories.
- Baby carrots with ranch dip: 1 cup (128 g) of baby carrots contains 52 calories, and 2 tablespoons of ranch dip (30 g) contain 141 calories.
Remember to check the ingredient list and nutritional values before consuming any food to ensure it fits your dietary needs and goals.
Santa Fe Corn Stix- Best Places to Buy
You can find Santa Fe Corn Stix in most grocery stores or online retailers that specialize in snacks or health foods. Here are a few places to buy them:
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Santa-Fe-Corn-Stix-7oz/dp/B003PBDAGE
- Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Goya-Santa-Fe-Corn-Stix-7-oz/10852500
- Jet: https://jet.com/product/Santa-Fe-Corn-Stix/95ebf91009144ad0ad045d189004aa80
You can also make them at home using the recipe provided earlier in this article!
5 FAQ About Santa Fe Corn Stix
1. What are Santa Fe Corn Stix?
Santa Fe Corn Stix are a snack food made from corn that is shaped into small sticks. They are often flavored with spices and seasonings, such as the flavors found in Southwestern cuisine.
2. What is the nutritional information for Santa Fe Corn Stix?
One third cup (30g) of Santa Fe Corn Stix contains 140 calories. The exact nutritional information may vary depending on the brand, seasoning, and serving size.
3. Are Santa Fe Corn Stix gluten-free?
It depends on the brand and specific ingredients used. Some Santa Fe Corn Stix may contain gluten, while others may be gluten-free. It is important to check the label or contact the manufacturer to determine if a specific product is gluten-free.
4. Can Santa Fe Corn Stix be part of a healthy diet?
As with any snack food, Santa Fe Corn Stix should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They can be a good source of carbohydrates and provide some fiber and protein, but may also be high in sodium and added sugars depending on the flavoring used.
5. How can Santa Fe Corn Stix be enjoyed?
Santa Fe Corn Stix can be enjoyed as a snack on their own, or used as a topping for salads, soups, or chili. They can also be crushed and used as a coating for chicken or fish for added crunch and flavor.