Craving Southwestern flavors but worried about your diet? Moe’s Southwest Grill offers a variety of tasty options that won’t derail your health goals. By choosing wisely from Moe’s menu, you can enjoy a satisfying meal while keeping calories and fat in check.
The restaurant’s build-your-own concept allows customers to customize their orders with fresh ingredients. Lean proteins like grilled chicken or tofu provide a nutritious base, while pinto beans add fiber and plant-based protein. Pile on veggies like lettuce, pico de gallo, and grilled peppers to boost nutrients without excess calories.
To keep meals lighter, opt for a burrito bowl or salad instead of a flour tortilla. Skip high-calorie toppings like queso and sour cream in favor of fresh salsa. With these simple swaps, Moe’s can be a flavorful choice for health-conscious diners looking for quick, customizable meals.
Understanding Moe’s Menu
Moe’s Southwest Grill offers a diverse menu centered around Mexican-inspired cuisine. Customers can choose from signature dishes or create their own combinations using a variety of ingredients.
Signature Dishes
Moe’s menu features several popular signature items. The Homewrecker burrito comes packed with rice, beans, shredded cheese, and a choice of protein. For a lighter option, the Earmuffs bowl skips the tortilla and loads up on veggies.
Taco lovers can enjoy the Overachiever with three soft or crispy shells. The John Coctostan quesadilla satisfies cheese cravings with melted queso. Nachos are another fan favorite, piled high with toppings.
Customizable Menu Options
Customization is key at Moe’s. Guests start by selecting a base: burrito, bowl, taco, quesadilla, nachos, or salad. Next, they choose a protein like all-natural adobo chicken, grass-fed steak, or organic tofu.
Toppings include:
- Beans (pinto or black)
- Rice (cilantro-lime or brown)
- Veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers)
- Cheese (shredded or queso)
- Sauces (pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole)
This build-your-own approach allows diners to create meals that fit their tastes and dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are easily accommodated.
Nutritional Content Breakdown
Moe’s Southwest Grill offers a variety of menu items with varying nutritional profiles. Understanding the calorie, sodium, and fat content of different options can help customers make informed choices.
Low-Calorie Selections
Moe’s provides several lower-calorie options for health-conscious diners. Burrito bowls typically have fewer calories than traditional burritos due to the absence of a tortilla. The Adobo Chicken Bowl contains approximately 148 calories, making it a lighter choice.
For those seeking protein-packed meals with moderate calorie counts, options like grilled chicken tacos or salads with lean protein can be good picks. Adding fresh vegetables and salsa as toppings can boost nutritional value without significantly increasing calories.
Monitoring Sodium and Fat
Many Moe’s menu items contain high levels of sodium and fat. Cheese, queso, and sour cream can quickly increase fat content. Opting for fresh vegetables instead of high-fat toppings can help reduce overall fat intake.
Sodium levels can be a concern in restaurant meals. Moe’s offers customizable options, allowing customers to control sodium intake by choosing fresh ingredients and limiting salty toppings or sauces.
To reduce sodium and fat, consider:
- Selecting grilled meats over fried options
- Choosing black beans instead of refried beans
- Limiting cheese and creamy sauces
Identifying Nutritional Information
Moe’s provides a nutrition calculator on their website to help customers make informed choices. This tool allows diners to view calorie counts, fat content, and other nutritional information for customized meals.
Key nutritional facts to consider:
- Calorie content of base items (e.g., tortillas, proteins)
- Sodium levels in sauces and toppings
- Fat content in cheese and creamy additions
When dining in-store, customers can request nutritional information from staff. Being aware of portion sizes is crucial, as some menu items may contain multiple servings.
Moe’s commitment to transparency allows customers to tailor their meals to fit specific dietary needs or preferences.
Dietary Preferences and Allergies
Moe’s Southwest Grill caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. The restaurant offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those requiring gluten-free meals.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Moe’s provides numerous choices for vegetarian and vegan customers. The menu features plant-based proteins like tofu and black beans. Vegetarians can enjoy cheese quesadillas, veggie burritos, and salads topped with fresh vegetables.
Vegan diners have several options as well. The tofu can be added to tacos, burritos, or bowls. Moe’s offers dairy-free alternatives like guacamole and salsa. Vegan-friendly sides include rice, beans, and grilled vegetables.
Customization is key at Moe’s. Customers can build their meals by selecting from a range of vegetables, sauces, and plant-based ingredients.
Gluten-Free Choices
Moe’s accommodates gluten-sensitive diners with a selection of gluten-free items. Corn tortillas are available as a gluten-free alternative to flour tortillas. Gluten-free protein options include grilled chicken, steak, and ground beef.
Many of Moe’s toppings and sauces are naturally gluten-free. These include lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños. The restaurant’s website provides a detailed allergen menu to help customers identify gluten-free choices.
Moe’s staff can change gloves and use separate utensils upon request to minimize cross-contamination risks for gluten-sensitive guests.
Healthy Eating at Moe’s
Moe’s Southwest Grill offers various options for health-conscious diners. The restaurant provides fresh ingredients and customizable meals that can fit into a balanced diet.
Choosing Balanced Meals
Moe’s allows customers to build their own meals, making it easier to create nutritious options. Start with a base of brown rice or lettuce for added fiber and nutrients. Select lean proteins like grilled chicken or tofu for a protein boost without excess fat.
Load up on vegetables to increase the nutritional value of your meal. Opt for fresh pico de gallo, diced tomatoes, and grilled peppers and onions. These add flavor and vitamins without many calories.
Be mindful of high-calorie toppings. Choose salsa over queso, and limit or skip sour cream and cheese. Add a small amount of guacamole for healthy fats, but remember it’s calorie-dense.
Spotlight on Salads and Bowls
Salads and burrito bowls are excellent choices for healthier eating at Moe’s. The Close Talker salad with grilled chicken is a protein-packed option. It includes mixed greens, black beans, and pico de gallo.
Burrito bowls offer flexibility. Build a nutritious meal by choosing brown rice, black beans, grilled chicken or steak, and plenty of veggies. Add a light dressing or salsa for flavor without excess calories.
For a lower-carb option, try the Earmuffs bowl. It features a bed of lettuce instead of rice, topped with your choice of protein and vegetables.
Sides and Snacks Considerations
Moe’s offers complimentary chips with meals. While tasty, they add extra calories and fat. Consider sharing or skipping them if watching your intake.
For a healthier side, try the cup of black beans or pinto beans. These provide fiber and plant-based protein. The seasonal corn salsa is another nutritious option when available.
If ordering kids’ meals, choose apple slices as a side instead of chips. This adds nutrients and fiber to the meal. Encourage water or unsweetened tea as a beverage choice to avoid added sugars.
Customizing Your Meal for Health
Moe’s Southwest Grill offers numerous options to create nutritious meals tailored to individual preferences. By selecting wholesome ingredients and making smart choices, customers can craft satisfying dishes that align with their health goals.
Selecting Fresh Produce
At Moe’s, an array of fresh vegetables allows diners to boost the nutritional value of their meals. The salsa bar features choices like pico de gallo, diced tomatoes, and jalapeños. These add flavor and vitamins without excess calories.
Lettuce, onions, and cilantro provide crunch and nutrients. Grilled peppers and onions offer a flavorful way to increase vegetable intake. Consider adding extra veggies to burritos, bowls, or salads for more fiber and micronutrients.
Guacamole, made from fresh avocados, provides healthy fats. Use it as a topping or dip in moderation due to its calorie density.
Opting for Whole Grains and Proteins
Moe’s offers whole grain options like brown rice and whole wheat tortillas. These provide more fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains. Swap white rice for brown rice in bowls or burritos for a healthier base.
For proteins, grilled chicken or tofu are lean choices. Black or pinto beans add plant-based protein and fiber. Steak and ground beef are available for those seeking higher protein content, but contain more saturated fat.
Limit high-calorie toppings like cheese and sour cream. Instead, focus on flavorful salsas and fresh veggies to enhance taste without excess calories.