Delicious and Nutritious: Healthy Food Options for Food Trucks

Food trucks are increasingly offering healthy and lighter options, catering to the rising demand for nutritious and mindful eating. Whether you’re looking for something fresh or a healthier alternative to fast food, more and more food trucks are offering dishes that not only taste great but are also good for your body.

Refreshing Starts: Smoothie Bowls and Fresh Juices

One of the most popular healthy options from food trucks is smoothie bowls and freshly pressed juices. Smoothie bowls are made with a base of frozen fruits, plant-based milk, or yogurt and are topped with granola, chia seeds, nuts, and fresh fruit. These colorful, Instagram-worthy bowls are not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Freshly pressed juices and detox drinks are also a big hit at food trucks. From green juices with spinach, apple, and ginger to tropical blends of pineapple, mango, and turmeric, these drinks are perfect for boosting your energy and giving your body a healthy kick.

Light and Satisfying Meals: Salads and Buddha Bowls

Salads are no longer boring or monotonous. Modern food trucks elevate this classic by using creative combinations and seasonal ingredients. Imagine a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a fresh lemon dressing, or an Asian-inspired salad with noodles, edamame, and a spicy sesame dressing.

Buddha bowls, which combine grains, vegetables, proteins, and flavorful dressings, are also growing in popularity. They provide a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Food trucks often customize their Buddha bowls to fit specific diets, such as vegan, gluten-free, or keto, making them accessible to a wide audience.

Read also: Mobile Dining Revolution

Guilt-Free Snacking: Healthy Street Food

Food trucks are also great for healthy snacks. Think veggie chips made from sweet potatoes or beets, hummus with whole-grain pita bread, or edamame with a touch of sea salt. These snacks are perfect for sharing and complement a mindful lifestyle.

For street food lovers, food trucks offer healthier alternatives like wraps filled with grilled vegetables and chickpeas, grilled fish tacos, or rice cakes topped with avocado and smoked salmon.

The Rise of Vegan Food Trucks

Vegan food trucks are becoming increasingly popular, offering plant-based versions of classic street food dishes. Here are some popular vegan options that can be found on food trucks:

1. Vegan Breakfast Options: For those rushing to work, vegan food trucks offer light and quick breakfast options.
2. Socca: A street food favorite in Paris, socca is a light and savory pancake made from chickpea flour.
3. Grilled "Cheese" Sandwiches: These sandwiches are a drool-worthy take on a classic comfort food, using vegan cheese for an ooey, gooey experience.
4. Loaded Fries: Fries loaded with vegan nacho cheese and other toppings are perfect for sharing.
5. Fried Avocado: A hot, gooey, savory snack that can be enjoyed on its own or added to a mixed greens salad.
6. Chickpea "Wings": Chickpeas can be transformed into "wings" using wheat gluten, offering a healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings.
7. Vegan Poutine: A vegan version of the classic Canadian dish, featuring fries topped with gravy and vegan cheese curds.
8. Vegan "Lobster" Rolls: A great substitute for traditional lobster rolls, using plant-based ingredients to mimic the taste and texture of lobster.
9. Creative Fries: Fries can be customized with a variety of toppings and flavors.
10. Vegan Hotdogs: Made with flavorful toppings, vegan hotdogs offer a healthier alternative to traditional hotdogs.
11. Deep Fried Pickles: Paired with a creamy dill dipping sauce, deep-fried pickles are a salty, crispy, and addictive snack.
12. Chicken and Waffles: Waffles make a hot and tasty substitute for bread, and vegan "chicken" made from seasoned oyster mushrooms adds a savory element.
13. Vegan "Fish" Tacos: A plant-based twist on the popular fish taco, using vegan ingredients to mimic the taste and texture of fish.
14. Late Night Snacks: Vegan food trucks also offer options for those late-night cravings.
15. Vegan Nachos: Loaded with vegan cheese, guacamole, and black beans, vegan nachos are a satisfying and indulgent snack.
16. Vegan Tacos: Refried bean tacos without the cheese are a simple and delicious vegan option.
17. Vegan Teriyaki Sushi Burrito: A fusion of Japanese and Mexican flavors, this burrito combines teriyaki flavors with sushi ingredients.
18. Vietnamese Banh Mi Sandwiches: Spicy and tasty, Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches are a popular choice.
19. Vegan Fish and Chips: Beer-battered tofu is used as a substitute for fish in this vegan version of the classic British dish.
20. Waffle Sandwiches: Waffles make a hot and filling substitute for bread, holding sandwich sauces perfectly.
21. Vegan Burgers: Made with legumes, carbs, veggies, and spices, vegan burgers offer a delicious and meatily-textured alternative to traditional beef burgers.
22. Arepas: A popular Venezuelan dish, arepas are becoming well-known all over the world.
23. Vegan Meatball Sub Sandwiches: A filling and satisfying option for when hunger strikes.
24. Cauliflower Pizza: A healthier alternative to traditional pizza, using a cauliflower base to save on carbs.
25. Air Fried Ravioli: Packaged vegan ravioli is air-fried for a crispy and easy-to-make snack.
26. Falafel: Falafels come in all shapes and sizes, and can have a large variety of fillings.
27. Indian Street Food: Vegan food trucks also offer options based on Indian street food.
28. Funnel Cakes: Sweetly fried dough topped with powdered sugar and a variety of toppings.
29. Beignets: A fancy word for donuts, beignets are a sweet and satisfying treat.

Classic Food Truck Recipes Made Healthier

Below are some popular food truck recipes along with healthier twists and nutritional information:

1. Chicken Street Tacos: These tasty tacos include jicama in the salsa to boost the nutritional value. Each serving (2 tacos) contains 465 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1351mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 8g fiber), and 33g protein.
2. Toasted Ravioli: A close replication of the St. Louis favorite, each piece contains 73 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 117mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), and 2g protein.
3. Corn Dogs: A classic fair food, each corn dog contains 316 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), and 8g protein.
4. Potato Nests: These are simple to make and great for toppings like pulled pork or cheese. Each hash brown cup contains 129 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 439mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), and 8g protein.
5. Air-Fried Samosas: Crispy dough pockets stuffed with potatoes and peas, air-fried for a healthier twist.
6. Crispy Fish Tacos: A lighter alternative to traditional fried fish tacos, each taco contains 350 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 632mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), and 34g protein.
7. Jalapeno Cream Corn: This recipe includes a creamy dressing, crunchy panko coating, and spicy jalapeno kick. Each ear of corn contains 339 calories, 26g fat (9g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 568mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), and 6g protein.
8. Citrus Ice Pops: A lower-fat alternative to ice cream-filled pops, each pop contains 58 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 41mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), and 2g protein.
9. Garden-Fresh Taco Salad: A great way to use leftover taco filling, each serving (2 tacos) contains 291 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 674mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), and 28g protein.
10. Asian Pulled Pork Sandwich: A flavorful slow-cooker dish with Vietnamese influences. Each sandwich contains 350 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 703mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), and 23g protein.
11. Fried Candy Bars: A novelty treat, each fried candy bar (without confectioners' sugar) contains 136 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), and 2g protein.
12. Gyro: A flavorful gyro recipe that can be sliced and frozen for future cravings. Each gyro contains 475 calories, 22g fat (7g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 918mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), and 28g protein.
13. Fried Green Tomato Sandwich: A summer sandwich featuring fried green tomatoes, each sandwich contains 623 calories, 37g fat (7g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 1329mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 4g fiber), and 18g protein.
14. Korean Beef and Rice: A tasty version of Korean bulgogi, each serving (1/2 cup beef mixture with 2/3 cup rice) contains 413 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 647mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 3g fiber), and 27g protein.
15. Vegetarian Enchiladas: These enchiladas use a lot of garden favorites, each serving (2 enchiladas) contains 346 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 780mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), and 18g protein.
16. Crunchy Beef Burrito: Each chimichanga contains 285 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 608mg sodium, and 23g carbohydrate.
17. Banh Mi Skewers: A fun twist on banh mi sandwiches, each skewer with about 1 tablespoon sauce contains 336 calories, 24g fat (5g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), and 13g protein.
18. Cinnamon Roll: Maple syrup sweetens these lovely little cinnamon buns. 1 cinnamon roll: 176 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
19. Caesar Wrap: This classic handheld with tender chicken, Parmesan cheese and chopped Caesar croutons features the perfect amount of dressing for a tasty meal any night. 1 wrap: 337 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 730mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein.
20. Frozen Yogurt Banana Pops: When we want a healthy snack, we dip bananas in yogurt, roll 'em in cereal, then freeze. Ta-da! 1 pop: 106 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
21. Buffalo Chicken Wings: Cayenne, red sauce and spices keep these tangy buffalo chicken wings good and hot, just like the originals.
22. Chicken Souvlaki Pitas: These chicken souvlaki pitas are a favorite at our house, especially in summer. With just a few ingredients and a grill, we can enjoy a gourmet-style Greek dinner that’s a snap to put together. Of course, a simple Greek salad on the side is a nice addition. - Becky A. 1 pita: 369 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 462mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
23. Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers: Cilantro layers on the freshness, while the sesame oil and Thai chili sauce add Asian flavors that pair perfectly with peanut butter. 1 skewer with about 2 teaspoons sauce: 73 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 172mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
24. Loaded Waffle Fries: Make any dinner fun with my Loaded Waffle Fries, topped with a savory blend of cheese, scallions and bacon.
25. Mac and Cheese Bites: Young relatives were coming for a Christmas party, so I wanted something fun for them to eat. To my surprise, it was the adults who devoured these mini mac and cheese bites. 1 appetizer: 91 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 162mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
26. Tostada: Here's a terrific recipe for your next weeknight dinner. Set out various toppings and garnishes so your family members can customize their own tostadas with the lime-kissed shredded pork. 1 tostada: 269 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 279mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
27. Walking Tacos: These Walking Tacos are perfect for an on-the-go dinner, a campfire meal or an easy game-night supper. The ingredients go right into the chip bags! 1 serving (calculated without toppings): 530 calories, 28g fat (6g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 1017mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 24g protein.
28. Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry: I normally serve a traditional stir-fry, but I wanted to change it up with this ramen noodle recipe. Ramen noodles are a quick sub for the rice, and we really like the crisp-tender bite from fresh broccoli and a package of coleslaw mix. 1-3/4 cups: 354 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 794mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
29. Strawberry Gelato: You’ll love this smooth and creamy gelato with bright strawberry flavor and just a hint of sea salt and honey. 1/2 cup: 160 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 124mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
30. Slow-Cooker Meatball Sandwich: When my husband’s not manning the grill, I count on my slow cooker. These mouthwatering meatballs are just one reason why. I serve them as party appetizers, or spooned over crusty rolls and topped with cheese for irresistible sandwiches. 1 sandwich: 643 calories, 36g fat (18g saturated fat), 95mg cholesterol, 1302mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein.
31. Tamales: I love making these homemade tamales. They take a little time to make but are so worth the effort. I usually make them for Christmas, but my family wants them more often, so I freeze a big batch. 2 tamales: 564 calories, 35g fat (7g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 835mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 20g protein.
32. Fried Ice Cream: Make this Mexican restaurant-style dessert at home! Drizzle hot fudge or caramel on top of this crunchy, creamy frozen treat. 1 each: 323 calories, 22g fat (12g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 138mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
33. Barbecue Parfait: I tried a version of this meaty parfait at Miller Park, home of my favorite baseball team, the Milwaukee Brewers. I take it up a notch by layering in corn and creamy mac and cheese, so it truly is a full barbecue meal you can take on the go. 1 serving: 349 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 1116mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein.
34. Pad Thai: Skip the take-out restaurant and give this pad thai recipe a try if you need an easy and quick meal. 1-1/4 cups: 361 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 1669mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
35. Cornmeal Waffle BLT Slider: Craving a BLT for breakfast? Try a deliciously different version that features crisp bacon and fresh tomatoes between two golden cornmeal waffles. Prepare the waffles ahead of time and reheat in the toaster for quick assembly. 1 slider: 224 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 574mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
36. Strawberry-Watermelon Slush: We like to relax on the back porch with glasses of my slush after a long, hot day. Strawberries and watermelon blend up with lemon juice and sugar for an instant refresher. 1-1/4 cups: 112 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
37. Waffle Pizza: These little waffle pizzas are a fun mashup using the waffle iron. Try your favorite toppings or even breakfast fillings like ham and eggs. 1 pizza (calculated without sauce): 461 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
38. Shrimp Sliders: My family loves these shrimp sliders. The bang bang slaw dressing and shrimp cake patties can be made ahead. When ready to serve, toss the cabbage slaw and sear the shrimp cakes, then assemble and enjoy. 1 slider: 210 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 321mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
39. Poutine: The ultimate in French-Canadian junk food, poutine commonly features warm fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. This side dish is quick to fix with frozen potatoes and packaged gravy but has all the traditional greasy spoon comfort. 1 serving: 244 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 465mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
40. Rice Krispies Pops: I came up with this recipe as a way for my grandkids to enjoy Rice Krispies treats without getting sticky hands. You can also pack the cereal mixture into paper cups and insert a wooden pop stick to create pops. 1 serving: 174 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 142mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
41. Spicy Breaded Ravioli: We like Mexican and Italian foods, so spicy breaded ravioli gives us the best of both worlds. We serve sauce on the side and pass the queso fresco.

Crafting a Healthy Food Truck Menu

Creating a menu for a food truck involves emphasizing the finest servings by placing the most popular items in the top right corner or center of the board. Highlighting promotions and deals can also attract more customers. Digital menu boards with appealing visuals and vivid descriptions can enhance the overall food truck experience.

Read also: Capturing the Healthy Food Market

Read also: Food Truck Menu: Healthy Options

tags: #food #truck #healthy #food