The number of calories in a Guzman y Gomez (GYG) soft shell taco depends heavily on the specific filling you choose. A standard taco includes a soft corn tortilla, a filling of your choice, and salsa. Add-ons like sour cream and cheese significantly increase the overall calorie count.
Guzman y Gomez Soft Shell Taco Calorie and Macronutrient Breakdown
To help you make an informed decision, here is a detailed nutritional breakdown for several common GYG soft shell taco fillings, based on information from CalorieKing and other nutrition databases. All values are approximate for a single standard soft shell taco.
| Filling | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mild Grilled Chicken | 194 | 15.3 | 8.1 | 14.5 | 455 |
| Mild Ground Beef | 213 | 11.5 | 11.2 | 15.8 | 475 |
| Spicy Grilled Chicken | 202 | 15.5 | 8.4 | 15.5 | 532 |
| Spicy Pulled Pork | 235 | 15.8 | 12.0 | 15.7 | 548 |
| Sauteed Vegetables | 243 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Slow Cooked Beef | 204 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
It's important to note that these figures represent a single taco. If you're ordering a three-pack of tacos, your total calorie intake could range from approximately 580 to over 700 calories, even before adding extras.
How Add-Ons Affect Your Calorie Total
While the base tacos are relatively moderate in calories, the final count can increase significantly with optional additions. Here’s a look at how common add-ons can change the nutritional profile of your meal:
- Cheese: Adding cheese contributes extra fat and sodium, increasing the total calorie count. For example, a serving of cheese could add around 100-150 calories.
- Sour Cream: This popular topping is high in fat and calories. A single dollop can easily add 50-70 calories.
- Guacamole: Although made with healthy fats, guacamole is calorie-dense. A standard side serving can add around 126 calories.
- Queso Sauce: This cheese sauce contains fat and sodium, boosting the calorie total further.
- Extra Fillings: Requesting extra protein or other fillings will naturally increase the overall calories.
Tips for a Healthier GYG Soft Shell Taco Meal
For those mindful of their calorie intake, a GYG soft shell taco can still be a good choice with a few smart modifications. Here are some tips for building a lighter meal:
- Choose Wisely: Opt for grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables as your filling, which are generally lower in calories and fat.
- Hold the Cheese: Forgo the cheese or ask for a very small amount to significantly reduce fat and calorie content.
- Limit Sour Cream: Skip the sour cream entirely or replace it with a low-fat salsa for extra flavour without the added fat.
- Stick to Salsa: Take advantage of the fresh tomato salsa (pico de gallo) or other salsas for flavor. They add minimal calories compared to creamy sauces.
- Consider Portions: Be aware that a three-pack of tacos can constitute a substantial portion of your daily calorie allowance, especially with added toppings.
Navigating the Official Nutrition Information
For the most up-to-date and comprehensive nutrition information, it is always best to consult the official source. Guzman y Gomez provides a detailed nutritional guide that can be accessed through their website. This guide offers specific values for all menu items and their ingredients, allowing for precise calorie calculation based on your customizations.
Official GYG Nutrition Information (PDF)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of calories in a GYG soft shell taco is not a fixed number but varies based on the filling and any extra toppings. A single taco with a lean filling like grilled chicken can be a reasonably low-calorie option, while a combo with multiple tacos and high-fat additions like cheese and sour cream can quickly become a significant meal. By being mindful of your choices, especially with add-ons, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal while managing your calorie intake effectively.
