Panera Bread is a popular fast-casual restaurant chain that offers a variety of tasty and healthy dishes. One of their most popular menu items is the Asian Sesame Salad, which is a mix of romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, edamame, red bell pepper, and crispy wonton strips, all tossed in a delicious Asian sesame vinaigrette. But, if you’re watching your calorie intake, you may be wondering just how many calories are in this salad. In this article, we’ll break down the Panera Asian Sesame Salad calories, provide some tips for making it healthier, and answer some common questions about this dish.
Table of Contents
How Many Calories are in a Panera Asian Sesame Salad?
A standard Panera Asian Sesame Salad with chicken contains 540 calories. However, this number can vary depending on the size of the salad, the dressing used, and any additional toppings or modifications you make. For example, adding extra wonton strips or using a different dressing can significantly increase the calorie count.
What are Some Tips for Making the Panera Asian Sesame Salad Healthier?
If you’re looking to enjoy the Panera Asian Sesame Salad without breaking your calorie bank, there are a few things you can do to make it healthier:
1. Choose a Smaller Size
Panera offers two sizes of the Asian Sesame Salad: a full-sized entree salad and a half-sized side salad. If you’re looking to cut back on calories, opt for the smaller size.
2. Go Easy on the Dressing
The Asian sesame vinaigrette is delicious, but it can also be high in calories. Ask for the dressing on the side and use it sparingly. A little goes a long way!
3. Skip the Wonton Strips
The crispy wonton strips add a nice crunch to the salad, but they’re also high in calories and carbs. Consider skipping them or asking for a smaller amount.
4. Add More Veggies
You can add extra veggies like carrots, cucumbers, or snap peas to bulk up the salad without adding too many calories. Plus, they’ll add some extra fiber and nutrients to your meal.
What Do People Say About Panera Asian Sesame Salad Calories?
The response to the Panera Asian Sesame Salad calories is mixed. Some people appreciate that it’s a filling and tasty salad that won’t completely derail their healthy eating goals, while others feel that it’s too high in calories for a salad. Some people also note that the salad can be high in sodium, which is something to keep in mind if you’re watching your salt intake.
Panera Asian Sesame Salad Nutrition Facts
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for a standard Panera Asian Sesame Salad with chicken:
| Calories | 540 |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 1090mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g |
| Sugars | 11g |
| Protein | 39g |
Conclusion
The Panera Asian Sesame Salad is a tasty and filling option, but it can be high in calories and sodium. By making some simple modifications, like choosing a smaller size, using less dressing, and skipping the wonton strips, you can enjoy this salad without going overboard on calories. And, with the nutrition information provided, you can make an informed decision about whether this salad is the right choice for you.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Panera Asian Sesame Salad healthy?
A: The Panera Asian Sesame Salad can be a healthy option if you make some modifications. For example, choosing a smaller size, using less dressing, and skipping the wonton strips can significantly reduce the calorie count. The salad also contains a good amount of protein and fiber from the chicken and veggies. However, it can be high in sodium and some versions may contain added sugars, so it’s important to read the nutrition information carefully.
