Complete Nutritional Breakdown of Pintos and Cheese
A standard order of Pintos and Cheese from Taco Bell, a popular vegetarian side dish, is a relatively low-calorie option on their menu. For those tracking their intake, knowing the precise nutritional information is key to making informed dietary choices. Below is a comprehensive look at what's in this dish.
Macronutrient Profile
One serving of Pintos and Cheese is known to have the following macronutrient values:
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 9g
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 1g
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
This breakdown shows that the dish offers a decent amount of protein and a high percentage of dietary fiber relative to its caloric load, which can aid in digestion and feeling full.
Micronutrients and Other Information
Beyond the primary macros, Pintos and Cheese also contain other notable components:
- Sodium: 690mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Calcium: 130mg
- Iron: 1.4mg
- Potassium: 360mg
It is important to be mindful of the sodium content, which represents a significant portion of the daily recommended intake. For those on a low-sodium diet, this is an important factor to consider.
Comparing Pintos and Cheese to Other Taco Bell Sides
When considering a side dish, it is useful to compare Pintos and Cheese to other popular options on the Taco Bell menu. This can help you choose the best item for your dietary needs.
| Item | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pintos and Cheese | 170 | 9 | 19 | 7 | 690 |
| Nacho Cheese Sauce | 30 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 210 |
| Black Beans and Rice | 180 | 5 | 32 | 4 | 500 |
| Chips and Nacho Cheese Sauce | 260 | 4 | 29 | 15 | 390 |
| Cinnamon Twists | 170 | 1 | 32 | 5 | 160 |
| Seasoned Fries | 270 | 3 | 33 | 14 | 420 |
As the table illustrates, the Pintos and Cheese are comparable in calories to Cinnamon Twists but offer a much more balanced nutritional profile with higher protein and fiber, and lower sugar content. It is also a heartier and more nutrient-dense option than the simple chips and cheese sauce.
Dietary Considerations and Customization
For those with specific dietary goals, a Pintos and Cheese order can be modified to better suit their needs. Because Taco Bell’s menu items are customizable, you have control over the final nutritional value.
- For lower sodium: You can ask for a light amount of red sauce, or for the item without it entirely. This can significantly reduce the sodium content. According to some data, Pintos and Cheese without red sauce has a lower sodium value.
- For higher protein: Adding extra beans or asking for a side of chicken or steak to mix in can boost the protein content.
- For lower fat: While the fat content is already modest, requesting less cheese or removing it altogether would lower it further. This is a trade-off for taste, but an option for those on a stricter low-fat diet.
The Vegetarian-Friendly Aspect
One of the main appeals of the Pintos and Cheese is that it is vegetarian-friendly, certified by the American Vegetarian Association. The pinto beans are not cooked with lard, making them suitable for most lacto-ovo vegetarians. This provides a convenient and protein-rich option for non-meat-eaters visiting a fast-food restaurant.
Conclusion: Is Pintos and Cheese a Healthy Choice?
Considering its nutritional composition, the Taco Bell Pintos and Cheese can be a relatively healthy and satisfying side dish, especially when compared to other fast-food alternatives. It provides a solid dose of protein and fiber for its calorie count, which are both crucial for satiety and overall health. The primary drawback is its high sodium level. For a complete and balanced diet, it's best to enjoy it in moderation and complement it with other nutritious choices.
For a full list of nutritional facts and customization options, you can consult the official Taco Bell nutrition calculator on their website.
