If you're a fan of tortilla chips and cheese, you'll love this tasty twist on the classic snack. A one-ounce serving of black bean and cheese tortilla chips contains 140 calories.

While these chips are not the healthiest snack option out there, they can be a satisfying treat when enjoyed in moderation. In addition to their savory flavor, they offer a decent amount of protein and dietary fiber, making them a bit more filling than other types of chips.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of black bean and cheese tortilla chips, as well as some serving and snacking suggestions to help you enjoy them in a way that fits your diet and lifestyle.

Calories per serving

As mentioned, a one-ounce serving of black bean and cheese tortilla chips contains 140 calories. This may not seem like a lot, but it can add up quickly if you're not careful. To put it in perspective, if you were to eat 3 servings (a common amount for snackers), you would consume nearly 500 calories. That's about a quarter of the recommended daily calorie intake for a moderately active adult. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of how many tortilla chips you're eating and to adjust your portions accordingly.

Fat content

A one-ounce serving of black bean and cheese tortilla chips contains 7 grams of fat. Of that, 1 gram is saturated fat. While a moderate amount of healthy fats can be beneficial for overall health, it's important to keep saturated fat intake in check. Diets high in saturated fat have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, so it's best to enjoy these chips in moderation and balance them with other healthy foods.

Protein content

One benefit of black bean and cheese tortilla chips is their relatively high protein content. A one-ounce serving contains 3 grams of protein, which can help keep you feeling fuller for longer. Protein is also important for building and repairing muscles, so it's a good idea to include protein-rich snacks like these chips as part of an active lifestyle.

Carbohydrate content

Like most types of chips, black bean and cheese tortilla chips are relatively high in carbohydrates. A one-ounce serving contains 18 grams of carbs. While a moderate amount of carbs can be beneficial for energy and performance, it's important to balance them with other nutrients like protein and healthy fats.

Sodium content

One drawback of black bean and cheese tortilla chips is their high sodium content. A one-ounce serving contains 230 milligrams of sodium, which is about 10% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Diets high in sodium have been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If you're watching your sodium intake, it's best to limit your consumption of these chips or look for low-sodium alternatives.

Dietary fiber

One redeeming quality of black bean and cheese tortilla chips is their relatively high dietary fiber content. A one-ounce serving contains 2 grams of fiber. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, keeping you feeling fuller for longer, and reducing the risk of certain diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

Vitamins and minerals

While black bean and cheese tortilla chips are not a nutrient-dense food, they do contain some beneficial vitamins and minerals. A one-ounce serving provides small amounts of iron, calcium, and vitamin C. Iron is important for blood health, calcium for bone health, and vitamin C for immune health and tissue repair.

Ingredients

Black bean and cheese tortilla chips are typically made with corn, black beans, cheese powder, and a variety of seasonings and oils. It's always a good idea to check the ingredient list before buying packaged foods to ensure that you're comfortable with what's in them. If you're looking to avoid certain ingredients (such as gluten or artificial preservatives), be sure to read labels carefully.

Serving suggestions

To get the most out of black bean and cheese tortilla chips, it's important to pair them with other healthy foods to make a balanced snack. Try serving them with fresh salsa or guacamole for added nutrients and flavor. You could also pair them with hummus or Greek yogurt dip for a protein boost. If you're feeling creative, you could even use the chips as a base for loaded nachos or as a crunchy topping for salads or soups.

Snack ideas

If you're a fan of black bean and cheese tortilla chips, here are some creative snack ideas to try:

• Pair them with fresh veggies like baby carrots and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and balanced snack.
• Crumble them over chili or soup for added texture and flavor.
• Use them as a crunchy topping for homemade mac and cheese or casseroles.