Tacos vs. Sliders – Which Is the Healthier Option?
In a recent article for Fox News Digital, experts compared the nutritional profiles of tacos and sliders, offering practical tips on how to prepare these popular handheld foods in a healthier manner. This discussion comes as summer approaches, bringing with it an abundance of social gatherings where these dishes are often staples.
“Tacos and sliders are fun, handheld meal options, but their nutritional content can vary significantly depending on ingredient choices, portion sizes, preparation methods, and cooking techniques such as grilling or frying,” said Michelle Routhenstein, a New York-based cardiology dietitian at Entirely Nourished.
“To keep either option on the healthier side, opt for lean proteins, whole-grain buns and shells, and nutrient-dense fresh toppings,” added Trista K. Best, a registered dietitian in Georgia.
According to Routhenstein, a typical restaurant taco contains about 150 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 250 milligrams of sodium, and 6 grams of protein. However, these values can fluctuate based on whether you are dining at a fast-food restaurant or a more formal establishment, or if you’re preparing them at home with pre-made frozen varieties.
Best recommended using soft-corn tortillas for tacos, which provide more fiber and fewer refined carbohydrates compared to flour tortillas. She suggested replacing fried meats with leaner protein options such as chicken, fish, or beans to enhance nutritional value. Adding fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and vegetables can significantly boost the nutrient density of tacos.
For sliders, which usually contain about 160 calories, 4 grams of saturated fat, 250 milligrams of sodium, and 9 grams of protein, Routhenstein cautioned that they can be high in calories, fats, and sodium, especially when made with fatty meats or high-fat sauces. She recommended choosing lean proteins like grilled chicken and being mindful of portion sizes and the use of high-fat condiments.
Both dishes have potential for excessive calories and saturated fats. However, with some thoughtful planning and portion control, the two can easily fit into a healthy diet. Best suggested choosing whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps for sliders.
“While tacos and sliders at a restaurant may have similar nutrition facts, tacos have great potential to be nutrient-dense and healthy when you select the right ingredients,” said Routhenstein. “Overall, tacos are likely the healthier option between the two,” concluded Best. “This is largely due to the ease with which they can be made with fresher, whole, and leaner ingredients.”