Did you know that 2 corn tortillas weighing 24 grams contain 115 calories? Corn tortillas are a staple in many traditional Mexican dishes and are very versatile. However, many people are unsure about their nutritional value. Let's take a closer look at this delicious food item.
Corn tortillas are gluten-free and low in fat. They are also a good source of fiber and magnesium. One tortilla contains around 6% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium and 10% of the recommended daily intake of fiber. In addition to these benefits, corn tortillas are also a great option for those who are looking to cut back on their calorie intake.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value and health benefits of corn tortillas, how to make them healthier, and some ideas for incorporating them into your meals.
Corn tortillas nutrition facts
Corn tortillas are a good source of nutrients that can benefit your overall health. Here are some of the nutritional facts for one 2 tortillas (24 g) Corn Tortilla: - calories: 115
- Carbohydrates: 22.8 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.6 g
- Fat: 1.4 g
- Protein: 3.3 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Calcium: 34 mg
- Iron: 1.1 mg From this, we can see that corn tortillas are low in calories and fat, making them a great option for people who are watching their weight. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients.
How many calories are in a corn tortilla?
Corn tortillas are a low-calorie food, making them a great option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Here are the calorie counts for different sizes of corn tortillas: - One 6" tortilla (42 g) contains around 82 calories.
- One 5" tortilla (28 g) contains around 50 calories.
- One 3" mini-tortilla (10 g) has around 15 calories.
By choosing smaller sized tortillas, you can lower the calorie count in your meals while still enjoying the delicious taste and nutrition of corn tortillas.
Are corn tortillas healthy?
Corn tortillas can be a healthy food option, depending on how they are prepared and what they are served with. Compared to flour tortillas, corn tortillas are lower in calories and fat and are also gluten-free. Since they are made with whole grain corn instead of refined wheat flour, they are also a good source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients. However, some commercially produced corn tortillas may contain additives such as preservatives or vegetable shortening, so it's important to read the ingredient list before purchasing.
What are the benefits of eating corn tortillas?
There are several benefits to including corn tortillas in your diet: - Low in calories and fat
- Gluten-free
- Good source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients
- Versatile and easy to use in a variety of dishes Overall, corn tortillas are a nutritious and delicious food item that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
How to make corn tortillas healthier?
Here are some tips for making your corn tortillas even healthier: - Choose corn tortillas that are made with whole grain corn.
- Look for tortillas that are low in sodium.
- Avoid tortillas that contain preservatives or artificial additives.
- Use tortillas in moderation and fill them with nutritious ingredients such as grilled vegetables or lean protein.
- Pair tortillas with healthy sides such as salsa, guacamole, or black beans. By following these tips, you can increase the nutritional value of your meals while still enjoying the flavor and texture of corn tortillas.
Can I eat corn tortillas on a diet?
Yes, you can definitely include corn tortillas in your diet if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Corn tortillas are low in calories and fat and are also a good source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes and fill the tortillas with healthy ingredients such as grilled vegetables, lean protein, or beans. If you are following a specific diet plan, such as a low-carb or gluten-free diet, corn tortillas can be a great option since they are naturally low in carbohydrates and are also gluten-free.
How to use corn tortillas in your meals?
Corn tortillas are incredibly versatile and can be used in many different dishes. Here are some ideas for incorporating them into your meals: - Tacos: Fill tortillas with veggies, lean protein, and toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and cilantro.
- Enchiladas: Layer filled tortillas with sauce and cheese for a delicious and filling meal.
- Quesadillas: Stuff tortillas with cheese, veggies, and lean protein for a quick and easy meal.
- Tortilla chips: Cut tortillas into wedges and bake for homemade tortilla chips.
- Breakfast burritos: Fill tortillas with eggs, veggies, and cheese for a healthy and satisfying breakfast. These are just a few ideas, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to using corn tortillas in your meals. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients!
Corn tortillas vs flour tortillas
Corn tortillas and flour tortillas are two popular options for making Mexican-style dishes, but there are some key differences between the two: - Corn tortillas are made with whole-grain corn flour, while flour tortillas are made with refined wheat flour.
- Corn tortillas are lower in calories and fat than flour tortillas.
- Corn tortillas are gluten-free, while flour tortillas are not.
- Corn tortillas are denser and have a more distinctive flavor than flour tortillas. Overall, the choice between corn tortillas and flour tortillas comes down to personal preference and dietary needs. If you are looking for a healthier and gluten-free option, corn tortillas are the way to go.
How to store corn tortillas?
To keep your corn tortillas fresh, it's important to store them properly. Here are some tips: - Keep tortillas in the refrigerator in their original packaging or in an airtight container.
- If you have opened the package, wrap the tortillas in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating.
- If you have leftover tortillas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 6 months. By following these tips, you can ensure that your corn tortillas stay fresh and delicious for longer.
Corn tortillas recipes
Here are some delicious recipes that use corn tortillas: - Chicken and green chile enchiladas
- Shrimp tacos with avocado salsa
- Black bean and vegetable quesadillas
- Huevos rancheros breakfast tacos
- Beef and cheese burritos These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own delicious dishes using corn tortillas!
Corn tortillas are a nutritious and versatile food item that can be enjoyed in many different ways. By choosing whole-grain corn tortillas and filling them with healthy ingredients, you can make a delicious and satisfying meal that also supports your overall health and wellness.
5 Common Questions About Corn Tortillas
1. How many calories are in a corn tortilla?
A typical corn tortilla contains about 115 calories. However, the exact number of calories may vary depending on the size and brand of the tortilla. It is important to check the nutrition label for accurate information.
2. Are corn tortillas gluten-free?
Yes, corn tortillas are typically gluten-free. However, some brands may add wheat flour or other gluten-containing ingredients. It is important to check the label or ingredient list if you have a gluten allergy or intolerance.
3. Are corn tortillas healthy?
Corn tortillas can be a healthy choice as they are low in fat and high in fiber. They are also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy. However, corn tortillas can be high in sodium if they are made with salt or other flavorings. It is important to choose low-sodium options and consume them in moderation.
4. How should corn tortillas be stored?
Corn tortillas should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh. They can also be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place for a short period of time. To thaw frozen tortillas, place them in the refrigerator overnight or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.
5. How can corn tortillas be used in recipes?
Corn tortillas can be used in a variety of recipes, such as tacos, enchiladas, tostadas, and quesadillas. They can also be fried or baked to make tortilla chips or tostada shells. Corn tortillas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as beans, vegetables, and meats, to make a complete meal.