Finding the Absolute Lowest Calorie Options
When dissecting the Del Taco menu for the absolute lowest calorie options, it's important to look beyond just the main menu items. While the Crunchy Snack Taco is a great low-calorie choice, the menu offers a few contenders that actually come in even lower.
The Zero-Calorie Champion: Drinks
The single lowest calorie item at Del Taco is actually not a food at all. Unsweetened beverages like Gold Peak Iced Tea and black coffee contain 0 calories. While this might seem obvious, it's a crucial consideration for anyone tracking their total caloric intake, as many people forget to account for high-calorie, sugary drinks that can easily inflate a meal's total count. Making a conscious decision to choose water or an unsweetened tea can save hundreds of calories.
The Lowest Calorie Food Item: Tacos
For those looking for a savory food item, the tacos present the best low-calorie choices. The Crunchy Snack Taco is a well-known option with its seasoned beef, lettuce, and cheese in a hard shell, clocking in at 120 calories. Another strong contender is the Grilled Chicken Street Taco, which contains 110 calories and is packed with more protein. This makes it an excellent choice for a low-calorie, high-protein snack.
Other Low-Calorie Favorites
Del Taco offers more than just tacos. Several other menu items are surprisingly low in calories, making it easier to build a satisfying meal without compromising your diet. These options prove that you don't have to sacrifice flavor for health-conscious choices.
- Mini Cheddar Quesadilla: At 130 calories, this is a simple, cheesy snack that is low on the caloric scale.
- Egg & Cheese Breakfast Roller: A small but filling breakfast option, containing 250 calories.
- Snack Queso Quesadilla: Slightly larger than the mini, this is 230 calories of cheesy goodness.
A Closer Look at Nutritional Information
To make the most informed decision, it is essential to compare the nutritional details of the various low-calorie options. While calories are a primary concern, looking at other factors like fat, protein, and sodium can help you choose the healthiest item for your specific needs.
| Item | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Street Taco | 110 | 9 | 3.5 | 13 | 300 |
| Crunchy Snack Taco | 120 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 135 |
| Mini Cheddar Quesadilla | 130 | 5 | 6 | 13 | 290 |
| Egg & Cheese Breakfast Roller | 250 | 10 | 12 | 24 | 600 |
| Snack Queso Quesadilla | 230 | 8 | 9 | 27 | 480 |
This table illustrates that while the Crunchy Snack Taco has slightly more calories than the Grilled Chicken Street Taco, it contains less protein. The Street Taco offers a better protein-to-calorie ratio, which can be more beneficial for satiety. Similarly, the Mini Cheddar Quesadilla is slightly higher in calories than the snack taco but offers a quick and satisfying hit of flavor with a reasonable protein count.
Customizing Your Order for Even Fewer Calories
If you want to go beyond the standard menu, customizing your order is the key to further reducing calories. Many items can be modified to remove or swap ingredients that add extra fats and calories without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Request no cheese or sour cream: These toppings are often high in fat and calories. For example, removing them from a taco can significantly lower the caloric total.
- Choose grilled over crispy: Opting for grilled chicken instead of crispy, breaded chicken can save a substantial number of calories.
- Stick with fresh ingredients: Request extra lettuce, pico de gallo, or salsa for more flavor and nutrients without adding many calories.
- Ask for 'Del Fresco' style: Many fast-food chains offer this modification, where high-calorie sauces are replaced with fresh pico de gallo. While Del Taco doesn't officially call it this, you can make similar requests.
Conclusion
While the Crunchy Snack Taco holds the title for the lowest-calorie main item, the Grilled Chicken Street Taco is a compelling alternative with fewer calories and more protein. For the absolute lowest option, unsweetened iced tea or black coffee is the winner. By understanding the menu and making simple modifications, it's entirely possible to enjoy a satisfying, low-calorie meal at Del Taco. The key is to be mindful of your choices, prioritize grilled proteins and fresh toppings, and avoid calorie-dense sauces and sodas. The Del Taco nutritional guide is your best tool for making informed decisions on your next visit.
The Health-Conscious Fast Food Revolution
The demand for healthier options at fast-food restaurants is growing, and establishments like Del Taco are adapting by offering a wider array of choices. From customizable salads to lighter snack items, the fast-food landscape is shifting to accommodate different dietary needs. Eating healthy at a fast-food restaurant is no longer just about picking the 'least bad' option, but about making smart, deliberate choices from a diverse menu.
The Unexpectedly Healthy Side
In addition to the main courses, even some of the side items and dessert options can be surprisingly low-calorie. For instance, a small order of Crinkle-Cut Fries contains 160 calories, which is considerably less than a main course like the Deluxe Taco. While these are not the 'healthiest' sides overall, they demonstrate that even typical fast-food offerings can be moderated to fit within a low-calorie diet plan. For those with a sweet tooth, a small order of Mini Cinnamon Churros is around 200 calories, a reasonable indulgence for many.
Ultimately, knowing what is the lowest calorie item at Del Taco and what other healthier options exist empowers you to take control of your fast-food experience. It allows you to satisfy your cravings while staying aligned with your health and wellness goals. The variety on the menu ensures that you have choices for any time of day, whether it's a quick breakfast or a late-night snack.
A Quick Reference Guide to Del Taco's Lowest Calorie Items
Tacos
- Grilled Chicken Street Taco: 110 calories
- Crunchy Snack Taco: 120 calories
Quesadillas
- Mini Cheddar Quesadilla: 130 calories
- Snack Queso Quesadilla: 230 calories
Breakfast
- Egg & Cheese Breakfast Roller: 250 calories
Sides & Dessert
- Small Crinkle-Cut Fries: 160 calories
- Mini Cinnamon Churros (2 pc): 200 calories
Beverages
- Gold Peak Iced Tea (Unsweetened): 0 calories
- Water: 0 calories
Understanding and utilizing this guide can help you navigate the Del Taco menu with confidence, ensuring you always know what is the lowest calorie item at Del Taco and what other healthy choices are available.
For additional nutritional details and a complete menu breakdown, you can visit the official Del Taco nutrition page.
