1 serving Wood-Grilled or Broiled Tilapia (Half Portion) contains 270 calories. Tilapia is a popular fish that is not only delicious but also healthy. If you are looking for a low-calorie but high-protein meal, tilapia can be a great option.

Tilapia is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. A half portion of wood-grilled or broiled tilapia provides 33 grams of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. This fish is also low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for people who want to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional value and benefits of tilapia, as well as some tips for preparing and serving it.

Calories

As mentioned earlier, 1 serving of wood-grilled or broiled tilapia (half portion) contains 270 calories. This makes it a great option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Compared to other popular sources of protein, such as beef or chicken, tilapia has fewer calories. For instance, a 3-ounce serving of grilled chicken breast contains around 140 calories, while a 3-ounce serving of broiled beef sirloin contains around 200 calories. So, if you are watching your calorie intake, tilapia can be a great choice of protein.

Protein

Tilapia is a rich source of protein, with 33 grams of protein per half portion. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, as well as for various other bodily functions. In addition to being a rich source of protein, tilapia is also a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. So, if you are looking for a high-protein meal that is also low in fat and calories, tilapia can be a great choice.

Carbohydrates

Tilapia is a low-carbohydrate food, with less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per half portion. This makes it a great option for people who are following a low-carbohydrate diet or trying to reduce their carbohydrate intake. Compared to other sources of protein, such as beans or lentils, tilapia has fewer carbohydrates. For instance, a 1/2 cup serving of cooked lentils contains around 20 grams of carbohydrates, while a half portion of wood-grilled or broiled tilapia contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. So, if you are looking for a low-carbohydrate source of protein, tilapia can be a great choice.

Fats

Tilapia is a low-fat food, with less than 5 grams of fat per half portion. This makes it a great option for people who are trying to reduce their fat intake or maintain a healthy weight. Compared to other sources of protein, such as beef or pork chops, tilapia has fewer fats. For instance, a 3-ounce serving of pork loin contains around 8 grams of fat, while a half portion of wood-grilled or broiled tilapia contains less than 5 grams of fat. So, if you are looking for a low-fat source of protein, tilapia can be a great choice.

Sodium

Tilapia is a low-sodium food, with less than 80 milligrams of sodium per half portion. This makes it a great option for people who are trying to reduce their sodium intake or maintain a healthy blood pressure. Compared to other sources of protein, such as canned soups or processed meats, tilapia has much less sodium. For instance, a 1-cup serving of canned chicken noodle soup can contain around 800 milligrams of sodium, while a half portion of wood-grilled or broiled tilapia contains less than 80 milligrams of sodium. So, if you are looking for a low-sodium source of protein, tilapia can be a great choice.

Serving Size

A half portion of wood-grilled or broiled tilapia is generally around 3 to 4 ounces or 85 to 113 grams. This can vary depending on the recipe and the chef. It is important to keep in mind that portion sizes can greatly affect the nutritional value of a meal. So, if you are trying to maintain a healthy weight or watch your calorie intake, it is important to be mindful of the portion sizes you consume.

Preparation Method

Tilapia can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, broiling, baking, or pan-searing. The preparation method can affect the nutritional value of the meal, as well as its taste and texture. For instance, grilling or broiling tilapia can help it retain more of its nutrients, while deep-frying it can add more fat and calories. It is also important to be mindful of the ingredients and seasonings used in the preparation process. So, if you are looking for a healthy and flavorful way to prepare tilapia, consider grilling or broiling it with some herbs and spices.

Dietary Restrictions

Tilapia is a versatile food that can be enjoyed by many people, including those with dietary restrictions or preferences. For instance, tilapia is gluten-free, which makes it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for people with heart disease or high cholesterol. However, it is important to note that some people may be allergic to tilapia or other types of seafood. So, if you have any allergies or intolerances, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before adding tilapia to your diet.

Possible Sides

Tilapia can be served with a variety of sides, depending on your taste preferences and nutritional needs. For instance, you can pair tilapia with some roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans, which are rich in vitamins and fiber. You can also serve it with some whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, or bulgur, which are rich in complex carbohydrates and protein. Other possible sides for tilapia include salads, soups, or stews, which can provide additional nutrients and flavors.

Recommended Beverages

Tilapia can be paired with a variety of beverages, depending on the occasion and your personal preferences. If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can pair tilapia with some infused water, sparkling water, or herbal tea, which can provide some hydration and antioxidants. If you prefer some alcoholic beverages, you can pair tilapia with some light beer, white wine, or vodka soda, which can be lower in calories and sugar than other options. However, it is important to drink alcohol in moderation and to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any health concerns or medication interactions.