Mexican chips and salsa

Snack

Item Rating: 69/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 200 calories, 3.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 30.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		317.5
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		15.9 g	20%
	Saturated Fat	2.4 g	12%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		634.9 mg	27%
Total Carbohydrates		47.6 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	6.3 g	22%
	Sugars	4.8 g
protein		4.8 g	9%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		31.7 mg	2%
Iron		1.6 mg	8%
Potassium		238.1 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 143 cal (40.6%)

Protein: 19 cal (5.4%)

Carbs: 190 cal (54.0%)

About Mexican chips and salsa

Mexican chips and salsa is a popular appetizer traditionally rooted in Mexican cuisine. The dish typically consists of tortilla chips made from ground corn and a fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. Salsa provides a nutrient-rich profile with low calories, high water content, and vitamins like vitamin C (from tomatoes and peppers) and vitamin A. While tortilla chips offer energy from carbohydrates, they are usually higher in sodium and fat due to the frying process. This combination creates a widely enjoyed snack, often served as a starter or side dish during meals and celebrations.

Health Benefits

• Tomatoes in salsa are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
• Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which has been shown to boost metabolism and support anti-inflammatory processes.
• Cilantro contributes small amounts of vitamin K, important for bone health and effective blood clotting.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains corn (for chips), gluten (potential cross-contamination in some commercially prepared chips)

Suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free (if chips are certified gluten-free), dairy-free

Not suitable for: Low-sodium diets (due to salt content in chips), low-fat diets

Selection and Storage

Store tortilla chips in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness. Refrigerate salsa in a covered container and consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Common Questions About Mexican chips and salsa Nutrition

Are Mexican chips and salsa high in protein?

Mexican chips and salsa are not high in protein. A typical serving of tortilla chips (around 28g) contains roughly 2-3g of protein, while salsa provides even less protein, usually less than 1g per serving. This combination is primarily carbohydrate-based.

Can I eat Mexican chips and salsa on a keto diet?

Mexican chips and salsa are generally not suitable for a keto diet due to the high carbohydrate content in tortilla chips. A standard serving of chips can contain 15-20g of carbs, making it challenging to fit into keto macros. However, keto-friendly alternatives, like low-carb chips or vegetable sticks with salsa, can be considered.

Are there health benefits or concerns with Mexican chips and salsa?

Salsa typically provides health benefits as it is low in calories and contains vitamins like vitamin C from tomatoes and peppers. However, tortilla chips are often high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats, especially if fried. Consuming them in moderation is important to avoid excess salt and calorie intake.

What is the recommended serving size of Mexican chips and salsa?

A recommended serving size for tortilla chips is about 1 ounce (roughly 9-13 chips), which contains around 140-150 calories. Salsa is low-calorie, with a typical serving size being 2 tablespoons (about 10-15 calories). Stick to appropriate portions to manage calorie and sodium intake.

How does Mexican chips and salsa compare to other snacks?

Compared to snacks like potato chips, tortilla chips with salsa generally offer fewer calories and fat per serving. Salsa can be a healthier dip option than creamy alternatives like cheese or ranch, as it is lower in calories and higher in vitamins. Choosing baked tortilla chips over fried ones can further reduce fat content.

Data Sources & Scientific References