Corn, Flour, or Whole Wheat Tortillas: Which is Healthier?
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Food Guide
Soft tortillas are a staple in many dishes, but their nutritional value varies significantly. Here's how corn, flour, and whole-wheat tortillas stack up:
1. Corn Tortillas
- Nutrition Pros:
- Made from whole grain corn.
- Lower in fat and sodium compared to flour tortillas.
- Simpler ingredients, often without additives.
- Texture: Firm and chewy.
- Example:
- Mission Yellow Corn Tortilla (1 oz)
- Lower in calories and sodium than flour alternatives.
2. Flour Tortillas
- Nutrition Cons:
- Made with refined white flour.
- Higher in sodium and may contain additives.
- Often higher in calories and fat.
- Texture: Soft and pillowy.
- Example:
- Tia Rosa Flour Fajita Tortilla (1 oz)
- Least healthy option due to processed ingredients and high sodium content.
3. Whole-Wheat Tortillas
- Nutrition Pros:
- Higher in fiber than white flour tortillas.
- Similar texture to flour tortillas with added nutritional benefits.
- Nutrition Cons:
- Comparable sodium and processed ingredients to regular flour tortillas.
- Tip: Opt for smaller sizes to control sodium and calorie intake.
- Example:
- La Banderita 100% Whole Wheat Fajita Tortilla (1 oz)
Healthier Tortilla Choice: Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas are generally the most nutritious option, offering whole-grain benefits with fewer calories and additives.
Chicken and Guacamole Tacos Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil.
- 1 tsp chili powder.
- 1 cup jarred salsa.
- 1/4 cup water.
- 1 rotisserie chicken (meat removed, approx. 4 cups).
- 12 6-inch corn tortillas, warmed.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage.
- 1 chopped tomato.
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves.
Instructions:
Make Guacamole: Mash avocados with lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Cook Chicken: Heat oil and chili powder in a skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds. Add salsa, water, and chicken, and cook until warmed (about 10 minutes).
Assemble Tacos: Spread guacamole on warm tortillas and top with chicken, cabbage, tomato, and cilantro.
Servings: 6 (2 tacos per serving)
Nutritional Info (per 2 tacos):
450 calories, 19 g fat, 3.5 g saturated fat, 42 g carbs, 8 g fiber, 29 g protein, 475 mg sodium.
Quick Tip: Opt for corn tortillas in this recipe for a healthier taco base!
