If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you have likely come across restaurant tortilla chips at some point. These chips are made from fresh corn tortillas and are popular for their crunch and versatility. However, if you're watching your calorie intake, you may be wondering how many calories are in 14 chips (28 g) of restaurant tortilla strips. Well, the answer is 130 calories.
Restaurant tortilla chips are a delicious snack, but it's important to be mindful of your portion sizes to avoid consuming excess calories. In addition to being a tasty treat, restaurant tortilla strips also offer some nutritional benefits. They are a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. They also contain some essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6 and potassium.
Whether you're looking for a snack to enjoy on its own or a crunchy topping for your favorite Mexican dish, restaurant tortilla strips are a great option to consider. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional values of restaurant tortilla strips, compare them to other snack options, and explore how they can be incorporated into a balanced diet.
What are Restaurant Tortilla Strips?
Restaurant tortilla strips are thin, crispy strips made from corn tortillas. They are typically deep-fried and seasoned with salt or other spices for added flavor. These chips are commonly served as an appetizer at Mexican restaurants, but they can also be enjoyed as a snack on their own or used to add crunch to salads, soups, and other dishes.
How many calories are in 14 chips (28 g) Restaurant Tortilla Strips?
As mentioned earlier, 14 chips (28 g) of restaurant tortilla strips contain 130 calories. However, it's important to note that the calorie content may vary depending on the brand and preparation method. If you're watching your calorie intake, be sure to check the nutrition label for the exact calorie count per serving.
How can Restaurant Tortilla Strips be served?
Restaurant tortilla strips are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy them:
- Serve them as a snack with your favorite dip, such as guacamole, salsa, or queso dip.
- Sprinkle them over salads or soups for added crunch.
- Use them as a topping for tacos, nachos, or burritos.
- Crush them up and use them as a coating for chicken or fish.
What are the nutritional values of Restaurant Tortilla Strips?
In addition to being a good source of fiber, restaurant tortilla strips also contain some essential vitamins and minerals. Here are the nutritional values for a 28 g serving (approximately 14 chips) of restaurant tortilla strips:
- calories: 130
- Total fat: 7 g
- Saturated fat: 1 g
- Trans fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Total carbohydrates: 16 g
- Dietary fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Vitamin D: 0%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 2%
- Potassium: 2%
It's worth noting that restaurant tortilla strips are relatively high in sodium and total fat, so it's important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Are Restaurant Tortilla Strips healthy?
While restaurant tortilla strips do offer some nutritional benefits, they are not necessarily a health food. As mentioned earlier, they are high in sodium and total fat, so it's important to consume them in moderation. Additionally, many brands of restaurant tortilla strips are deep-fried, which can add even more calories and unhealthy fats. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you could try making your own tortilla chips by baking them in the oven instead of deep-frying them. This can help reduce the calorie and fat content while still providing that satisfying crunch.
How do Restaurant Tortilla Strips compare to other snack options?
When it comes to snacking, it's always a good idea to choose options that are nutrient-dense and satisfying. Here's how restaurant tortilla strips compare to some other popular snack options:
- Potato chips: While potato chips are a classic snack, they are high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats. A 28 g serving of potato chips can contain around 150-160 calories and 10-11 g of fat.
- Pretzels: Pretzels are a lower-calorie option than potato chips, but they are also relatively low in nutrients. A 28 g serving of pretzels can contain around 110-120 calories and 1 g of fat.
- Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn can be a healthy and satisfying snack option. A 28 g serving of popcorn contains around 120-130 calories and 1-2 g of fat, depending on the type of popcorn and how it is prepared.
Overall, while restaurant tortilla strips are not the healthiest snack option, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What are some common brands of Restaurant Tortilla Strips?
There are many brands of restaurant tortilla strips available at grocery stores and online retailers. Here are a few popular options:
- Tostitos: Tostitos is a well-known brand of tortilla chips and strips that offers a variety of flavors, including original, hint of lime, and jalapeno.
- Santa Maria: Santa Maria is another popular brand that offers restaurant-style tortilla strips in both original and chili flavors.
- Garden of Eatin': Garden of Eatin' is a brand that specializes in organic and non-GMO snack foods, including restaurant-style tortilla strips in several flavors.
Can Restaurant Tortilla Strips be made at home?
Yes, restaurant-style tortilla strips can be made at home using fresh corn tortillas. Here's how:
- Cut 6-8 corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the tortilla strips to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the strips from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to cool and drain off any excess oil.
- Season the strips with salt or other spices, if desired.
Are Restaurant Tortilla Strips suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Restaurant tortilla strips may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain dietary restrictions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Gluten-free: While corn tortillas are gluten-free, some brands of restaurant tortilla strips may contain gluten-containing ingredients or be processed on equipment that also processes wheat. If you have celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, be sure to check the label or contact the manufacturer to confirm that the chips are gluten-free.
- Vegan: Many brands of restaurant tortilla strips are vegan-friendly, but some may contain animal-based ingredients, such as cheese or chicken broth. Check the label or contact the manufacturer to confirm that the chips are vegan.
How can you include Restaurant Tortilla Strips in a balanced diet?
While restaurant tortilla strips are not a health food, they can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Here are a few tips for incorporating them into your meals:
- Use restaurant tortilla strips as a crunchy topping for salads instead of croutons or fried onions.
- Serve restaurant tortilla strips with a side of fresh veggies and hummus, guacamole, or salsa for a satisfying snack.
- Make your own healthier version of nachos by topping whole-grain tortilla chips with beans, veggies, and a small amount of cheese and restaurant tortilla strips.
When it comes to snacking, moderation is key. While restaurant tortilla strips may not be the healthiest option, they can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurant Tortilla Strips
1. What are restaurant tortilla strips?
Restaurant tortilla strips are thin and crispy strips of tortilla chips that are often served as a topping or garnish for salads, soups, and other dishes. They are typically lightly seasoned with salt and other spices to add a bit of flavor and texture to the dish.
2. How many calories are in restaurant tortilla strips?
One serving of restaurant tortilla strips, which is typically about 14 chips or 28 grams, contains around 130 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the brand and how they are prepared.
3. Are restaurant tortilla strips healthy?
While restaurant tortilla strips can add crunch and flavor to a dish, they are not considered a healthy food option. They are high in sodium and fat, which can contribute to health issues such as high blood pressure and heart disease if consumed in excess.
4. How can I make restaurant tortilla strips at home?
To make restaurant-style tortilla strips at home, simply cut corn tortillas into thin strips, toss them in a bit of oil and seasonings, and bake them in the oven until crispy. This is a healthier option than buying pre-packaged restaurant tortilla strips, as you can control the ingredients and seasonings used.
5. How should I store restaurant tortilla strips?
Restaurant tortilla strips should be stored in an airtight container or bag to keep them fresh and crispy. It's best to consume them within a week of opening the package, as they can become stale quickly. You can also freeze them to extend their shelf life, but they may lose some of their texture and flavor when thawed.