If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful meal, the 1 plate (626 g) Carnitas Enchilada Plate definitely fits the bill. Not only is it tasty, it's also packed with calories - a whopping 1240, to be exact. So if you're watching your weight or trying to stick to a strict diet, proceed with caution.

Taking a closer look at the nutritional information, one serving of the Carnitas Enchilada Plate contains 93 grams of carbohydrates, 62 grams of protein, and 65 grams of fat. It also has 2940 milligrams of sodium, which is about 129% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Additionally, it has 7 grams of fiber and 5 grams of sugar.

While the Carnitas Enchilada Plate isn't exactly a health food, it can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation. We'll explore some ways to make the most of this indulgent dish without derailing your healthy eating goals.

Caloric Content

At 1240 calories per serving, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate is definitely a high-calorie meal. To put that into perspective, the average adult needs about 2000-2500 calories per day to maintain their weight, so this dish accounts for nearly half of your daily caloric intake. That being said, if you're going to indulge in a high-calorie meal, it's important to do so mindfully. This means savoring each bite, eating slowly, and stopping when you feel full rather than polishing off the entire plate out of habit or pressure.

Carbohydrate Content

One serving of the Carnitas Enchilada Plate contains 93 grams of carbohydrates. While this may seem like a lot, it's important to note that not all carbs are created equal. The dish includes ingredients like corn tortillas and black beans, which are high in fiber and essential nutrients. To balance out the carbs in this dish, consider pairing it with a side of fresh vegetables or a healthy, low-carb dip like guacamole. This will help you feel satisfied while still keeping your overall carb intake in check.

Protein Content

With 62 grams of protein per serving, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate is a good source of this essential nutrient. Protein is important for building and repairing muscles, and it also helps you feel full and satisfied after meals. To maximize the protein content of this dish, consider adding some additional protein sources like grilled chicken or shrimp. You could also stir in some quinoa or chickpeas to boost the protein and fiber content of the meal.

Fat Content

At 65 grams of fat per serving, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate definitely isn't a low-fat choice. However, it's worth noting that not all fats are unhealthy - in fact, many are vital for good health. The dish includes ingredients like avocado and cheese, which are high in healthy monounsaturated fats. To make the most of these beneficial fats, consider skipping the sour cream and opting for a side of fresh salsa instead.

Sodium Content

At 2940 milligrams of sodium per serving, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate is certainly on the high side when it comes to this mineral. Excessive sodium intake has been linked to high blood pressure and other health problems, so it's important to be mindful of your intake. When choosing your meals for the day, try to balance out high-sodium choices like the Carnitas Enchilada Plate with lower-sodium options like fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also try flavoring your foods with herbs and spices instead of salt to reduce your overall sodium intake.

Fiber Content

One serving of the Carnitas Enchilada Plate contains 7 grams of fiber, which is about 25% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Fiber is important for regulating digestion and preventing constipation, as well as reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. To boost the fiber content of this meal even further, consider adding some additional vegetables like peppers or onions. You could also swap out the corn tortillas for whole wheat tortillas or a salad to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.

Sugar Content

Despite being a savory dish, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate contains 5 grams of sugar per serving. While this may not seem like a lot, it's worth paying attention to your sugar intake to avoid consuming too much added sugar, which can lead to a host of health problems. To reduce the sugar content of this dish, consider skipping the store-bought enchilada sauce and making your own with fresh tomatoes and spices. You can also try swapping the black beans for fresh pico de gallo or another type of protein-rich salsa.

Cholesterol Content

With 135 milligrams of cholesterol per serving, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate is definitely on the high side when it comes to this heart-unhealthy substance. While some experts believe that dietary cholesterol may not be as harmful as previously thought, it's still a good idea to keep intake in moderation. To lower the cholesterol content of this meal, consider skipping the cheese or reducing the amount you use. You can also try making the dish with leaner cuts of meat, like pork tenderloin, to minimize the overall cholesterol content.

Vitamin Content

The Carnitas Enchilada Plate is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. For example, it contains 48% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which is important for immune health and collagen formation. It also has significant amounts of other essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, iron, and calcium. To make the most of these beneficial nutrients, try pairing the dish with a side of fresh, vitamin-rich vegetables like bell peppers or leafy greens.

Mineral Content

In addition to vitamins, the Carnitas Enchilada Plate is also a good source of important minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. These minerals are vital for everything from strong bones and teeth to muscle function and heart health. To make the most of these important minerals, consider pairing the dish with a glass of fortified orange juice or a side of steamed kale or broccoli. You can also try incorporating other mineral-rich foods like quinoa or tofu into your diet to further enhance your overall mineral intake.