Leena Watts
McAlister's Deli offers a variety of options that can be tailored to fit a keto diet, focusing on low-carb, high-fat choices. While their menu is known for sandwiches and sweets, keto followers can opt for protein-rich items like grilled chicken or turkey, paired with non-starchy vegetables and healthy fats such as avocado or olive oil. Salads, sans croutons and sugary dressings, and lettuce wraps instead of bread are excellent alternatives. Additionally, customizing orders to exclude high-carb ingredients ensures a meal that aligns with keto principles, making McAlister's a surprisingly keto-friendly choice with a bit of creativity and adjustment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Menu Options | Grilled Chicken Salad (no croutons), Club on Chopped Salad (no croutons) |
| Protein Choices | Grilled Chicken, Turkey, Ham, Tuna Salad (without bread) |
| Low-Carb Bread | Lettuce Wraps (instead of bread) |
| Dressings | Oil & Vinegar, Blue Cheese, Ranch (used sparingly) |
| Sides | Steamed Veggies, Pickle Spears, Avocado (added to salads) |
| Beverages | Unsweetened Tea, Water, Diet Soda |
| Avoid | Bread, Sweet Tea, Sugary Dressings, Croutons, Potato Salad |
| Customization Tips | Request no bread, ask for extra veggies, avoid high-carb toppings |
| Keto-Friendly Desserts | None available (avoid all desserts) |
| Portion Control | Stick to regular portions, avoid oversized meals |
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What You'll Learn
- Low-carb sandwich options: Lettuce wraps or bun-less sandwiches with turkey, ham, or roast beef
- Salad choices: Chef, Garden, or Cobb salads with grilled protein and oil-based dressings
- Soup selections: Broth-based soups like chicken tortilla (skip tortillas) or vegetable
- Sides and snacks: Steamed veggies, avocado, or cheese bites for keto-friendly pairings
- Beverages: Unsweetened tea, water, or diet soda to stay within keto macros
Low-carb sandwich options: Lettuce wraps or bun-less sandwiches with turkey, ham, or roast beef
When dining at McAlister's while following a keto diet, low-carb sandwich options are a fantastic way to enjoy a meal without compromising your macros. One of the most popular choices is opting for lettuce wraps instead of traditional bread or buns. McAlister's offers a variety of deli meats like turkey, ham, or roast beef, which can be wrapped in large lettuce leaves, typically butter lettuce or romaine, to create a satisfying and carb-friendly meal. This method eliminates the high-carb bread while still allowing you to enjoy the flavors of your favorite sandwich fillings. Be sure to ask for extra lettuce to ensure a sturdy wrap that holds together well.
Another excellent low-carb option is ordering bun-less sandwiches with turkey, ham, or roast beef. Simply request your chosen meat without the bread, and you can enjoy it as an open-faced sandwich or with a fork and knife. McAlister's deli meats are high-quality and flavorful, making this a simple yet delicious choice. Pair your bun-less sandwich with a side of McAlister's famous sweet tea—just skip the sugar and opt for an unsweetened version or water to keep it keto-friendly. You can also add cheese, avocado, or bacon to your order for extra fat and flavor without adding carbs.
For added customization, consider adding low-carb toppings to your lettuce wrap or bun-less sandwich. McAlister's offers options like mustard, mayo, or oil and vinegar, which are all keto-approved condiments. Avoid sugary sauces like honey mustard or sweet dressings, as these can quickly add unwanted carbs. Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, or onion can also enhance your meal without significantly increasing the carb count. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as some vegetables like carrots or pickles may contain added sugars.
When ordering, be clear with your server about your dietary needs to ensure your meal is prepared correctly. For example, specify "lettuce wrap with turkey and mayo, no bread" or "bun-less roast beef sandwich with mustard and avocado." McAlister's staff is generally accommodating and can help you navigate the menu to find the best keto options. Don’t hesitate to ask for modifications to make your meal fit your macros.
Finally, complete your keto-friendly McAlister's experience by choosing a low-carb side. While their signature fries or potato salad are off-limits, you can opt for a side salad with oil and vinegar dressing or a cup of broccoli. These sides complement your lettuce wrap or bun-less sandwich perfectly, ensuring a balanced and satisfying keto meal. With a little creativity and clear communication, enjoying a delicious, low-carb meal at McAlister's is easier than you might think.
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Salad choices: Chef, Garden, or Cobb salads with grilled protein and oil-based dressings
When dining at McAlister's while following a keto diet, salad choices are a fantastic way to stay on track while enjoying a satisfying meal. The Chef, Garden, and Cobb salads are excellent options, especially when customized with grilled protein and oil-based dressings. These salads provide a balance of healthy fats, protein, and low-carb vegetables, making them keto-friendly. Start by selecting one of these salads as your base, ensuring you avoid high-carb ingredients like croutons, dried fruits, or sugary dressings.
For the Chef Salad, you’ll typically find a mix of fresh greens, ham, turkey, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs. To make it keto-friendly, opt for grilled chicken or turkey instead of processed meats, which may contain added sugars. Skip the croutons and ask for an olive oil and vinegar dressing or a simple balsamic vinaigrette without added sugar. This combination keeps the carb count low while maximizing flavor and nutrition.
The Garden Salad is another great choice, featuring a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to boost your protein intake and keep the meal satiating. Pair it with an oil-based dressing, such as McAlister’s olive oil or ranch dressing (without added sugars). Be sure to confirm with the staff that the ranch dressing is sugar-free or opt for a safer choice like olive oil and vinegar.
If you’re craving something heartier, the Cobb Salad is a stellar option. Traditionally, it includes greens, chicken, bacon, eggs, avocado, and cheese. Customize it by choosing grilled chicken instead of breaded or fried options, and ensure the bacon is sugar-free. Avocado is a keto superstar, providing healthy fats, so keep it in your salad. Top it off with an oil-based dressing like blue cheese or a simple olive oil and lemon juice mix to maintain keto compliance.
When ordering any of these salads, be explicit about your customizations to ensure they align with your keto goals. Always ask for no croutons, sugars, or high-carb additives, and double-check the ingredients in dressings. McAlister’s staff is usually accommodating, so don’t hesitate to modify your order. By focusing on grilled protein and oil-based dressings, you can enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly meal at McAlister’s without compromising your diet.
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Soup selections: Broth-based soups like chicken tortilla (skip tortillas) or vegetable
When dining at McAlister's while following a keto diet, soup selections can be a smart and satisfying choice. Opt for broth-based soups as they tend to be lower in carbs compared to cream-based options. McAlister’s offers a variety of broth-based soups, such as chicken tortilla soup and vegetable soup, which can fit into your keto plan with a few adjustments. For the chicken tortilla soup, skip the tortillas and any corn or beans that might come with it, as these are high in carbs. Focus on the chicken, broth, and vegetables to keep it keto-friendly. This simple modification allows you to enjoy the flavors of the soup without derailing your macros.
The vegetable soup at McAlister’s is another excellent option for keto dieters. Since it’s broth-based, it’s naturally lower in carbs, but it’s important to confirm with the staff that it doesn’t contain starchy vegetables like potatoes or carrots, which could add unnecessary carbs. Stick to non-starchy vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli to keep the carb count minimal. Pairing this soup with a side of avocado or a small portion of cheese can add healthy fats and make the meal more filling and keto-compliant.
When ordering broth-based soups at McAlister’s, be mindful of toppings and add-ins. Many soups come with croutons, crackers, or cheese that can add carbs. Politely ask for these to be omitted or served on the side. Additionally, if the soup includes beans or grains, request that they be left out. McAlister’s is generally accommodating to special requests, so don’t hesitate to customize your order to fit your keto needs.
Another tip for enjoying keto-friendly soups at McAlister’s is to check the menu for seasonal offerings. Sometimes, they introduce limited-time broth-based soups that can be tailored to your diet. Always ask for the nutritional information or consult the staff about ingredients to ensure the soup aligns with your keto goals. By making informed choices and customizing your order, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup without compromising your diet.
Lastly, portion control is key when eating keto at McAlister’s. While broth-based soups are generally low in carbs, larger portions can still add up. Consider pairing a cup of soup with a side salad (without croutons or sugary dressings) or a small portion of protein like grilled chicken or turkey. This balanced approach ensures you stay within your keto macros while enjoying a variety of flavors. With a little planning and customization, McAlister’s soup selections can be a delicious and convenient option for keto dieters.
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Sides and snacks: Steamed veggies, avocado, or cheese bites for keto-friendly pairings
When dining at McAlister's while following a keto diet, focusing on low-carb sides and snacks is essential to stay within your macros. Steamed veggies are an excellent choice, as they are naturally low in carbs and high in fiber. McAlister’s offers steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans, which pair well with entrees like grilled chicken or a bunless sandwich. These veggies not only add volume to your meal but also provide essential nutrients without derailing your keto goals. Be sure to skip any added sauces or butter, opting instead for olive oil or a drizzle of ranch dressing if available.
Another keto-friendly side option at McAlister’s is avocado. Rich in healthy fats and low in carbs, avocado can be a satisfying addition to your meal. If McAlister’s offers avocado slices or guacamole, consider adding them to your order. They pair perfectly with salads, grilled proteins, or even as a standalone snack. Avocado’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it a versatile choice that complements a variety of dishes while keeping you full and energized.
For those craving something savory and indulgent, cheese bites are a fantastic keto-friendly snack option at McAlister’s. If available, fried cheese bites or cheese curds can be enjoyed in moderation, as cheese is naturally low in carbs and high in fat. Just ensure they are not breaded or served with a sugary sauce. Cheese bites can be a great way to satisfy cravings while sticking to your keto plan. Pair them with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
When customizing your McAlister’s order, don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions to make your sides and snacks keto-friendly. For example, swap out high-carb sides like fries or pasta salad for steamed veggies, avocado, or cheese bites. Additionally, always check with the staff about ingredient options to ensure there are no hidden sugars or carbs. By focusing on these low-carb pairings, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal at McAlister’s while staying true to your keto lifestyle.
Lastly, portion control is key when enjoying sides and snacks on keto. While steamed veggies and avocado are nutrient-dense, cheese bites should be consumed mindfully due to their higher calorie content. Pairing these options with a protein-rich entree ensures a well-rounded meal that keeps you satiated. With a bit of planning and creativity, McAlister’s can be a keto-friendly destination where you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or variety.
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Beverages: Unsweetened tea, water, or diet soda to stay within keto macros
When dining at McAlister's while following a keto diet, it’s crucial to choose beverages that align with your macros and won’t spike your blood sugar. The best options are unsweetened tea, water, or diet soda, as these contain minimal to no carbs and fit seamlessly into a keto lifestyle. Unsweetened tea, whether hot or iced, is an excellent choice because it’s naturally carb-free and can be flavored with lemon or lime for added zest without compromising your macros. Avoid adding sugar or honey, as these will quickly derail your keto goals.
Water is always the safest and most hydrating option, especially when you’re aiming to stay within keto macros. It’s calorie-free, carb-free, and essential for maintaining ketosis. McAlister’s offers plain water, sparkling water, or even water with lemon or cucumber slices for a refreshing twist. Opting for water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps curb false hunger cues, which can be common when adjusting to a low-carb diet.
Diet soda is another viable choice for those who crave carbonation or a sweet flavor without the carbs. McAlister’s offers a variety of diet sodas, typically including options like Diet Coke or Diet Dr Pepper. These beverages use artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, which are keto-friendly since they don’t impact blood sugar levels. However, be mindful of your tolerance to artificial sweeteners, as some people may experience cravings or other side effects.
When ordering, be explicit about your preferences to ensure you get the right beverage. For example, specify "unsweetened iced tea with no sugar" or "diet soda, please." McAlister’s staff is generally accommodating and can help you make keto-friendly choices. Pairing these beverages with keto-approved menu items, such as a bunless sandwich or a salad with oil and vinegar dressing, will ensure your entire meal stays within your macros.
Lastly, remember that staying hydrated is key to success on the keto diet, as it aids in digestion, energy levels, and the elimination of ketones. Whether you choose unsweetened tea, water, or diet soda, these beverages will help you enjoy your meal at McAlister’s without compromising your keto goals. Always prioritize options that keep your carb intake low and your hydration levels high for the best results.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but you’ll need to order them as lettuce wraps or without the bread. McAlister’s offers a variety of sandwiches that can be customized to fit keto by skipping the bun and opting for extra veggies or cheese.
Yes, McAlister’s has several keto-friendly side options, such as the Garden Salad (without croutons), steamed veggies, or a side of bacon. Just be sure to skip high-carb sides like fries, pasta salad, or sweet tea.
McAlister’s unsweetened tea is keto-friendly, but their sweetened tea is loaded with sugar and should be avoided. You can also ask for unsweetened tea with a sugar substitute if you prefer a sweeter taste.
