McAlister’s Deli, a popular fast-casual restaurant chain, offers a variety of mouth-watering sandwiches, salads, and soups that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Among their signature menu items, the SPAL (Spicy Turkey Patty and Avocado Wrap) stands out as a fan favorite. But have you ever wondered how many calories are packed into this flavorful wrap? In this article, we’ll delve into the calorie count of McAlister’s SPAL, explore its nutritional breakdown, and provide some helpful tips for health-conscious patrons.
What’s in McAlister’s SPAL?
Before we dive into the calorie count, let’s take a closer look at what makes up this tasty wrap. The SPAL consists of:
- Spicy turkey patty (made with ground turkey, peppers, onions, and spices)
- Fresh avocado slices
- Crisp lettuce
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Tomato
- Creamy ranch dressing (optional)
- Wrapped in a warm flour tortilla
These ingredients combine to create a satisfying and filling meal that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
The Calorie Count: A Breakdown
According to McAlister’s nutrition information, a standard SPAL without ranch dressing contains approximately 740 calories. Here’s a breakdown of the macronutrients and other essential nutrients:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| — | — |
| Calories | 740 |
| Total Fat | 36g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Sodium | 830mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 63g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 35g |
As you can see, the SPAL is a relatively calorie-dense meal, primarily due to the presence of the spicy turkey patty and avocado. However, the whole wheat tortilla and moderate amount of vegetables help balance out the nutritional profile.
Fat and Saturated Fat Content
The SPAL contains a significant amount of fat, mainly from the turkey patty and avocado. While some of this fat is healthy (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated), the saturated fat content (6g) is worth noting. Consuming high amounts of saturated fat regularly can contribute to increased cholesterol levels and heart disease risk.
Sodium Content
With 830mg of sodium, the SPAL is a relatively high-sodium meal, primarily due to the turkey patty and seasonings. This is important to consider, especially for individuals with hypertension or those who are salt-sensitive.
Carbohydrate and Fiber Content
The SPAL contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, with 63g from the tortilla, turkey patty, and vegetables. The 8g of dietary fiber is a positive aspect, as fiber plays a crucial role in digestive health and satiety.
<h4-Protein Content
The 35g of protein in the SPAL comes from the turkey patty, making it a relatively protein-rich meal. This can be beneficial for individuals looking to support muscle growth and maintenance.
Tips for Health-Conscious Patrons
While the SPAL is a tasty and satisfying meal, there are some simple modifications you can make to reduce the calorie and nutrient counts:
- Opt for a whole wheat or whole grain tortilla instead of the standard flour tortilla for increased fiber and nutrient content.
- Request a smaller or junior-sized SPAL to reduce overall calorie intake.
- Consider swapping the spicy turkey patty for a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or turkey breast.
- Limit or avoid adding ranch dressing, which adds an additional 150 calories and 17g of fat.
- Pair your SPAL with a side salad or fruit cup instead of chips or cookies to increase the nutrient density of your meal.
Conclusion
McAlister’s SPAL is a delicious and filling meal that can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. By understanding the calorie count and nutritional breakdown, you can make informed choices to tailor your meal to your dietary needs. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking for a quick and tasty meal, the SPAL is a great option – just be mindful of the ingredients and portion sizes to ensure a nutritious and satisfying experience.
What is the SPAL at McAlister’s?
The SPAL, short for Soup, Potato, and Salad, is a unique menu offering at McAlister’s Deli, a popular fast-casual restaurant chain in the United States. It’s a flexible meal option that allows customers to choose from a variety of soups, potato options, and salads to create a customized meal that suits their taste and dietary needs.
The SPAL is available in various combinations, including a small cup of soup, a potato, and a side salad or a larger serving of soup, a baked potato, and a side salad. This flexibility is a major draw for customers who want to enjoy a satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value.
How many calories are in a typical SPAL at McAlister’s?
The calorie count of a typical SPAL at McAlister’s can vary greatly depending on the specific options chosen. On average, a small cup of soup ranges from 100 to 200 calories, a potato can range from 100 to 300 calories, and a side salad can range from 50 to 150 calories.
However, if you opt for a larger serving of soup, a baked potato with toppings, and a side salad with protein, the calorie count can quickly add up to 800-1000 calories or more. It’s essential to be mindful of your choices to ensure you’re staying within your daily calorie needs.
What is the healthiest SPAL option at McAlister’s?
The healthiest SPAL option at McAlister’s would likely be a small cup of vegetable-based soup, such as the Veggie Soup or the Chicken Tortilla Soup (without the crispy tortilla strips), paired with a baked potato and a side salad with mixed greens, veggies, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
This combination provides a good balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber while keeping calorie and fat intake relatively low. Be mindful of added toppings and dressings, which can quickly increase the calorie count.
Can I customize my SPAL at McAlister’s to fit my dietary needs?
Yes, McAlister’s is known for its flexibility in accommodating various dietary needs and preferences. You can customize your SPAL by choosing from a range of soup options, potato toppings, and salad dressings to suit your gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or low-carb requirements.
Be sure to inform your server or the person taking your order about any dietary restrictions or preferences, and they will be happy to guide you through the options and make recommendations. You can also ask for modifications, such as holding the cheese or croutons, to tailor your meal to your needs.
Are McAlister’s SPAL options gluten-free?
Some SPAL options at McAlister’s can be gluten-free, but it depends on the specific choices you make. The baked potatoes and most soups are gluten-free, but some soups may contain gluten due to added ingredients like croutons or barley.
The salads can also be gluten-free if you opt for a gluten-free dressing. However, some toppings like croutons or certain seasonings may contain gluten. Be sure to ask your server about gluten-free options and modifications to ensure your meal meets your dietary requirements.
Can I get a SPAL to-go at McAlister’s?
Yes, McAlister’s offers take-out and delivery options for their SPAL menu. You can order online, through their mobile app, or by calling your local McAlister’s restaurant. They will prepare your SPAL to-go, complete with a container for your soup, a wrapped baked potato, and a side salad in a convenient take-out container.
Be sure to specify any special requests or modifications when you place your order, and the McAlister’s team will ensure that your meal is prepared to your liking.
Are McAlister’s SPAL options suitable for a quick lunch or dinner?
McAlister’s SPAL options are an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The meals are prepared to order, but the staff is trained to work efficiently to minimize wait times. You can expect to receive your SPAL within 10-15 minutes of ordering, making it an ideal option for a busy day or a quick dinner on-the-go.
Plus, the SPAL is a filling and satisfying meal that will keep you energized throughout the day. With the flexibility to customize your meal, you can choose options that fit your schedule and dietary needs, making the SPAL a great choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.