Noodles and Company is a popular chain of fast-casual restaurants that specializes in noodle-based dishes from different cuisines around the world. Among the many options available on their menu, the Med Salad stands out as a healthier alternative for those who want to enjoy a satisfying meal without overloading on calories.
However, if you’re watching your weight or trying to manage your calorie intake, you may wonder how many calories are in a Noodles and Company Med Salad. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients used in this dish, its nutritional profile, and some tips to make it even more diet-friendly. Whether you’re a regular customer at Noodles and Company or trying it out for the first time, reading this article can help you make more informed choices about what to order.
Understanding the key components of Noodles and Company Med Salad
When trying to determine how many calories are in Noodles and Company Med Salad, it’s important to first understand its key components. The salad contains a mix of fresh greens, marinated tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, parmesan cheese, and crispy noodles. The salad’s dressing is a sweet and tangy balsamic vinaigrette that helps tie all of the ingredients together.
The salad’s greens offer a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, while the marinated tomatoes add a sweet, flavorful punch. The crunchy noodles offer a satisfying texture and the parmesan cheese provides a savory flavor. Overall, the Noodles and Company Med Salad is a well-balanced and delicious salad option that can be a healthy addition to any diet.
The calorie count breakdown of Noodles and Company Med Salad
The calorie count of Noodles and Company Med Salad ranges from 390 to 500 calories per serving, depending on the additions you choose. A basic Med Salad without any added protein or dressing contains around 390 calories, while a fully loaded salad with chicken, bacon, and creamy Caesar dressing can go as high as 500 calories.
The calorie breakdown of a Med Salad also includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. On average, a Med Salad contains 58 grams of carbohydrates, 23 grams of protein, and 16 grams of fat. It’s important to note that adding protein or dressing can significantly increase the fat and calorie content of the salad. Therefore, it’s best to opt for lean proteins like grilled chicken and vinaigrette dressings for a healthier option.
Nutritional benefits of Noodles and Company Med Salad
The Noodles and Company Med Salad is a healthy entree that not only tastes great but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. The salad is packed with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats that provide essential nutrients to your body. The Med Salad is a perfect choice for those who are health conscious and looking for a nutrient-dense meal option.
The salad contains spinach, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. These ingredients are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote good health. The salad is also high in fiber and protein, which helps to keep you feeling full for longer and reduces the risk of overeating. Additionally, the healthy fats from the feta cheese and olives are essential for heart health and brain function. Choosing the Noodles and Company Med Salad is an excellent way to add variety to your diet, enjoy a delicious meal, and also support your overall health and well-being.
Factors that affect the calorie count of Noodles and Company Med Salad
The calorie count of Noodles and Company Med Salad can vary depending on certain factors. One of the major factors that affect the calorie count is the choice of dressing. Noodles and Company offers three types of dressings for their Med Salad – Chili Lime Vinaigrette, Ranch, and Caesar. The Chili Lime Vinaigrette has the least amount of calories, followed by the Ranch, and then Caesar. If you want to keep the calorie count low, it is best to choose the Chili Lime Vinaigrette as your dressing.
Another factor that affects the calorie count is the add-ons or toppings. Noodles and Company offers several options for add-ons such as chicken, shrimp, tofu, Parmesan cheese, and more. Adding more toppings can increase the calorie count significantly. It is important to be mindful of the amount and type of toppings you choose. You can still enjoy a delicious and nutritious Med Salad at Noodles and Company while keeping the calorie count in check by making wise choices when it comes to dressings and toppings.
How to customize your Noodles and Company Med Salad for a healthier option
If you’re looking to make your Noodles and Company Med Salad healthier, there are a few simple swaps you can make to reduce calorie and fat intake. One option is to request dressing on the side, so you can control the amount you add. You can also choose to go with the fat-free Vinaigrette dressing, which has just 60 calories per serving. Another way to cut down on calories is to ask for less cheese or skip it altogether.
If you want to add more protein to your Med Salad, consider asking for extra chicken or tofu. You can also add more veggies, like broccoli or mushrooms, for a boost of fiber and nutrients. By making a few small changes, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal from Noodles and Company without sacrificing your health goals.
Comparing Noodles and Company Med Salad with other similar salads for calorie count
When it comes to salads, calories can vary widely depending on the ingredients used. Comparing Noodles and Company Med Salad with other similar salads can give you a better idea of how it stacks up in terms of calorie count.
A similar salad to Noodles and Company Med Salad is the Panera Bread Greek Salad with Chicken. While the Noodles and Company Med Salad has 520 calories, the Panera Bread Greek Salad with Chicken has only 350 calories. Another similar salad is the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl with 470 calories, which is also lower than the Noodles and Company Med Salad. By comparing the calorie count of different salads, you can make more informed decisions about what to order and maintain your daily calorie goals.
Tips for maintaining a balanced diet while including Noodles and Company Med Salad in your diet.
If you enjoy Noodles and Company Med Salad but want to maintain a balanced diet, there are a few simple tips to follow. Firstly, try to choose a smaller portion size and pair it with a protein source such as chicken or tofu. This will help to balance the carbohydrate content of the salad and keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Secondly, pay attention to the dressing that you choose. Many salad dressings can be high in calories and unhealthy fats, so opt for a lighter dressing such as balsamic vinaigrette or lemon vinaigrette. You can also ask for the dressing to be served on the side and apply it sparingly to your salad.
Lastly, try to include a variety of vegetables and fruits in your diet to ensure that you are getting a range of nutrients. You can even bring your own vegetables and add them in for extra nutrients and flavor. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy Noodles and Company Med Salad while maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
Based on the analysis of the nutritional information provided by Noodles and Company, it can be concluded that the Med Salad can be a healthy and satisfying choice for those watching their calorie intake. With only 390 calories per serving, it can be enjoyed guilt-free as a main dish or as a side option alongside other menu items.
However, it’s important to note that the total calorie count can vary depending on additional toppings or dressings selected, so it’s always a good idea to check the nutritional information beforehand and make informed choices. Overall, the Med Salad can be a tasty and nutritious option for those seeking healthier choices while dining out.