Guide to Keto-Friendly Panda Express Options for Healthy Eating

Gone are the days when fast food and healthy eating were mutually exclusive. With the growing popularity of the keto diet, many fast-food chains now offer low-carb options that cater to health-conscious consumers. Panda Express, the well-known Chinese restaurant chain, is no exception. From keto-friendly Asian cuisine to low-carb Panda Express dishes, there are plenty of options to choose from.

In this guide, I will walk you through the best Keto-Friendly Panda Express options, making it easier for you to maintain your low-carb diet while enjoying delicious Chinese cuisine. We will explore the variety of healthy fast food choices available at Panda Express, and how you can make keto-friendly choices to stay on track with your health goals.

Key Takeaways:

• Panda Express offers a range of keto-friendly options for health-conscious consumers.
• Low-carb Chinese food is possible with the right customizations and choices.
• There are plenty of healthy fast food choices available at Panda Express.
• Keto-friendly Asian cuisine can be enjoyable and satisfying.
• Low-carb Panda Express dishes are available for those on a keto diet.

Exploring the Menu at Panda Express

Before diving into the keto-friendly options at Panda Express, let’s take a look at the menu offerings. While many Chinese dishes are known for their high carbohydrate content, there are still healthy options that can be included in a low-carb diet.

First, it’s important to note that Panda Express does not have a designated low-carb menu. However, there are still numerous options that can be customized to fit a keto-friendly diet.

One of the most popular keto-friendly options is the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. This dish contains only 11 grams of net carbs and is a great source of protein. Other protein options that are low in carbs include the string bean chicken, broccoli beef, and eggplant tofu.

For those looking for vegetable dishes, the Super Greens and mixed vegetables are both great options. These dishes are loaded with nutrient-dense veggies and contain fewer than 10 grams of net carbs per serving.

When it comes to sauces and dressings, many of the options at Panda Express are high in sugar and carbohydrates. However, there are still a few low-carb alternatives available. The ginger sauce and hot mustard sauce are both tasty options that won’t break the carb bank.

Overall, Panda Express offers a variety of healthy options that can be enjoyed as part of a keto-friendly diet. With a little customization and careful selection, you can indulge in delicious Chinese cuisine without sacrificing your health goals.

Keto-Friendly Protein Options

When it comes to low-carb Panda Express dishes, the right protein choices can make all the difference. Here are some of the best options for a keto-friendly meal:

As you can see, these protein options are relatively low in net carbs and calories, making them perfect for a keto diet.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, the Eggplant Tofu is a great choice with only 6g net carbs and 170 calories.

It’s important to note that while some of the dishes may be high in fat, they are largely made up of good fats that are healthy for your body.

When placing your order, try to avoid the breaded and fried protein options as they tend to be higher in carbs. Stick to the grilled or baked options for a healthier meal.

Low-Carb Vegetable Side Dishes

Adding vegetables to your meal is an excellent way to create a balanced low-carb meal, and Panda Express offers several options. Here are some of the low-carb vegetable side dishes to consider:

Note: Be mindful of the serving size when consuming vegetable dishes that contain meat or tofu.

If you are looking for a richer flavor, consider adding a low-carb sauce to your vegetable dish. The garlic sauce, hot mustard, and soy sauce are some of the low-carb alternatives at Panda Express. You can also customize the amount of sauce to control the carb content.

Sauces and Dressings to Avoid

While Panda Express is known for its delicious range of sauces and dressings, not all of them are suitable for a low-carb diet. It’s important to be mindful of the ingredients used in these condiments and choose alternatives wisely to keep your meal keto-friendly.

As a rule of thumb, creamy and sweet sauces should be avoided. These include:

• Sweet and Sour Sauce – Contains high amounts of sugar and carbs
• Plum Sauce – High in sugar and preservatives
• Orange Sauce – Loaded with sugar and carbs
• Honey Sesame Sauce – High in sugar and calories

Instead, opt for low-carb alternatives such as:

• Hot Mustard – Contains minimal carbs and provides a spicy kick
• Soy Sauce – A staple in Asian cuisine and low in carbs
• Black Pepper Sauce – Low in carbs and calories with a bold flavor
• Teriyaki Sauce – Contains some sugar, but can be used in moderation

It’s also a good idea to ask for sauces and dressings on the side so you can control the amount that you use. Remember to check the nutritional information for any sauce or dressing you plan to use, to ensure it fits within your daily carb limit.

Tips for Customizing Your Order

When it comes to keto-friendly fast food, customization is key. Here are some tips for customizing your order at Panda Express:

• Choose a protein that is low in carbs, such as grilled teriyaki chicken or kobari beef. Avoid breaded or fried options like orange chicken or sweet and sour pork.
• Ask for extra vegetables instead of rice or noodles. Panda Express offers a variety of keto-friendly vegetable options, including string beans, broccoli, and mixed veggies.
• Avoid sauces and dressings that are high in sugar and carbs, such as sweet and sour sauce or hoisin sauce. Instead, opt for low-carb alternatives like the hot mustard sauce or chili sauce.
• Customize your meal by selecting a combination of protein and vegetable options. For example, you can order a plate with grilled teriyaki chicken and mixed veggies, or kobari beef and broccoli.

Remember that you can always ask the staff at Panda Express for help with customizing your order to make it more keto-friendly. They are happy to accommodate your requests and help you find healthy options that fit your dietary needs.

Navigating the Side Dishes

Side dishes can be the perfect complement to your keto-friendly meal at Panda Express. However, it’s essential to choose wisely, as not all side dishes are healthy fast food choices.

At Panda Express, some side dishes are high in carbs and can quickly derail your low-carb diet. For example, the Fried Rice and Chow Mein are not suitable for those following a keto diet due to their high carb content.

Instead, opt for the following vegetable side dishes that are low in carbs:

These vegetable side dishes are flavorful and satisfying, making them the perfect addition to any low-carb meal.

Additionally, if you’re craving something crispy, you can opt for the Crispy Green Beans. They are lightly breaded and seasoned with salt and pepper, making them a perfect keto-friendly side dish.

By selecting the right side dishes, you can create a balanced and satisfying meal that’s both keto-friendly and healthy.

Keto-Friendly Meal Ideas with Asian Flavors

When it comes to Asian cuisine, there are plenty of delicious keto-friendly options to enjoy at Panda Express. Here are some sample meal ideas to get you started:

1. Kung Pao Chicken with Mixed Veggies: This dish combines spicy chicken with a mix of veggies like green beans, bell peppers, and onions. Opt for the steamed mixed veggies to keep the carbs low.
2. Beijing Beef with Broccoli: This dish features tender beef strips with a slightly sweet and tangy sauce. Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli for a filling and nutritious meal.
3. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with Super Greens: This dish offers a flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken, with a savory teriyaki glaze. Choose the super greens side for a healthy serving of kale, cabbage, and broccoli.

These meal ideas are just a few examples of the many keto-friendly options available at Panda Express. Don’t be afraid to mix and match protein and vegetable dishes to create a customized meal that meets your dietary needs.

Tips for Customizing Your Order

One of the best things about Panda Express is the ability to customize your order to fit your dietary needs. Here are some tips for making your meal more healthy:

Choose the Right Protein

When it comes to protein options, go for grilled chicken, grilled teriyaki chicken, or the eggplant tofu. These options are low in carbs and high in protein, making them perfect for a keto-friendly meal.

Load Up on Vegetables

Vegetables are an essential part of a keto diet, so make sure to add them to your Panda Express meal. The best options include steamed broccoli, mixed vegetables, and super greens. These choices are low-carb and high in fiber, making them a perfect addition to your meal.

Avoid Fried Foods

Fried foods are delicious, but they’re not the best option when it comes to a healthy meal. Instead, opt for grilled or steamed options to keep your meal low in carbs and high in nutrients.

Be Mindful of Sauces and Dressings

Some of the sauces and dressings at Panda Express can be high in sugar and carbs. To keep your meal healthy, avoid the sweet sauces and opt for options like the ginger sauce or the hot mustard sauce.

By following these tips, you can customize your Panda Express order to fit your low-carb dietary needs. With a little bit of planning and mindfulness, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious meal without compromising your health goals.

Conclusion

As we’ve explored in this guide, Panda Express offers a variety of Keto-Friendly options for those looking to maintain a low-carb diet while enjoying Asian cuisine. By customizing your order to include low-carb alternatives at Panda Express, you can have a satisfying and healthy meal while on the go.

Remember to choose Keto-Friendly Panda Express Options by selecting the right protein and low-carb vegetable options and avoiding sauces and dressings that are high in carbs. Additionally, be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a healthy diet.

Next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, don’t let your diet get in the way. Apply the tips and tricks we’ve discussed and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal at Panda Express!