Del Taco Vegan Options and Vegetarian Menu

Del Taco, a popular fast-food chain known for its Mexican-inspired cuisine, offers a variety of options for vegans and vegetarians. In this article, we will delve into Del Taco vegan options and also explore its vegetarian menu, highlighting some of the plant-based alternatives and delicious options available. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, Del Taco has some enticing choices to satisfy your cravings.

What is the Vegan Diet?

A vegan diet is a dietary lifestyle that excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. It focuses on consuming plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Veganism is driven by ethical, environmental, and health concerns, with individuals opting to avoid contributing to animal exploitation, reduce their carbon footprint, and promote a nutritious lifestyle through plant-based nutrition.

While attention is needed to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients, a well-planned vegan diet can provide all necessary nutrients and be followed at all stages of life. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or registered dietitians can help ensure nutritional needs are met.

Del Taco Vegan Options

Del Taco recognizes the growing demand for vegan alternatives and has introduced several plant-based options to cater to its diverse customer base.

Here are some of the vegan options available at Del Taco, it’s important to note that some of these items need modifications to make them vegan-friendly:

Macho Combo Burrito: Swap the beef, sour cream, and cheese with guacamole, black beans or Beyond Meat (vegan meat) for a hearty and flavorful vegan burrito.
Crinkle Cut Fries: Del Taco’s Crinkle Cut Fries are a delicious and satisfying vegan option available at the popular fast-food chain. These fries are specially prepared with a crinkle cut design, giving them a unique texture and appearance.

Hashbrowns: In addition to their Crinkle Cut Fries, Del Taco offers a vegan-friendly option with their Hashbrown. This breakfast staple is not only a delicious choice but also suitable for those following a vegan diet. What makes the fries and hashbrowns an excellent choice for vegans is that they are cooked in vegetable oil, making them free from any animal-based ingredients.
Beyond 8 Layer Burrito: This burrito excludes cheese and sour cream, and it features Beyond Meat as a protein substitute. Packed with layers of flavorful ingredients, it provides a satisfying vegan option.
8 Layer Veggie Burrito: Similar to the Beyond 8 Layer Burrito, this version omits the cheese and sour cream. It offers a delicious combination of vegetables and slow-cooked beans.
Epic Beyond Fresh Avocado Burrito: Also known as Epic Beyond Original Mex Burrito, contains Beyond Meat and Avocado, it also has other vegan-friendly ingredients such as seasoned rice, black beans, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and vegan-friendly zesty salsa.

Beyond Avocado Taco: This beyond taco features Beyond Meat, fresh avocado slices, lettuce, and pico de gallo, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Del Taco’s Signature Taco Salad: One of the best vegan options at Del Taco is this salad. Traditionally, the Signature Taco Salad features a bed of crispy lettuce topped with seasoned beef, tangy salsa, freshly grated cheese, diced tomatoes, and cool sour cream, all served in a crispy tortilla bowl. However, with the inclusion of Beyond Meat, this salad is made vegan.

Avocado Veggie Bowl: A satisfying vegetarian bowl featuring seasoned black beans, cilantro-lime rice, fresh avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and tangy salsa.

Del Taco’s Vegetarian Menu

In addition to its vegan menu items, Del Taco also provides a range of vegetarian options. While these dishes may contain dairy or eggs, they exclude meat and are suitable for lacto-ovo vegetarians. Here are some highlights from Del Taco’s vegetarian menu:

Beyond 8 Layer Veggie Burrito: This burrito swaps out the meat for Beyond Meat, combining it with a medley of vegetables, beans, and cheese. It offers a satisfying and flavorful choice for vegetarians.
Bean and Cheese Burrito: The Bean and Cheese Burrito at Del Taco features a warm tortilla filled with creamy refried beans and melted cheese. The combination of savory beans and melted cheese creates a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Crunchtada Tostada: A crispy corn tortilla topped with refried beans, lettuce, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes. This vegetarian tostada is a crunchy and delicious option.
Bean and Cheese Cup: A simple yet tasty vegetarian side dish that combines creamy refried beans and shredded cheese.
Beyond Guacamole Taco (Beyond Avocado Taco): Packed with seasoned Beyond Meat, fresh guacamole, and tasty veggies in a taco shell, it’s the perfect dish for those who want to save the planet and still enjoy mouth-watering Mexican food.
Cheddar Quesadilla: The Cheddar Quesadilla at Del Taco features a warm, grilled tortilla filled with melted cheddar cheese. The cheese is rich and gooey, providing a burst of savory goodness with every bite. The tortilla is perfectly toasted, adding a delightful crunch to the quesadilla.

Breakfast Burrito & Breakfast Roller: These breakfast options features a warm tortilla filled with a combination of scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and freshly made salsa. This flavorful combination creates a hearty and satisfying breakfast experience.
Mini Cinnamon Churros: These churros are a popular choice among both children and adults, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a touch of sweetness. The aroma of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch make them hard to resist.
Caramel Cheesecake Bites: These delectable treats offer the perfect balance of rich cheesecake and sweet caramel, making them a truly indulgent dessert option. Whether enjoyed as an after-meal treat or as a standalone dessert, the Caramel Cheesecake Bites are sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and satisfying.
Shakes: Del Taco’s Hand-Blended Shakes come in three classic flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry. Each shake is carefully prepared with high-quality ingredients to ensure a smooth and velvety texture, providing a truly delightful drinking experience.

How to Eat Vegan at Del Taco (How To Order Vegan at Del Taco)

Eating vegan at Del Taco is possible with a few simple modifications and choices. Here’s a guide on how to enjoy a vegan meal at Del Taco:

Start with the menu: Del Taco provides a specific section on their menu dedicated to vegetarian and vegan options. You can find it under the “Vegetarian/Vegan” category.
Choose plant-based protein: Swap out meat options with vegan alternatives. Del Taco offers Beyond Meat as a substitute for beef, which you can enjoy in items like the Beyond 8 Layer Burrito or the Macho Combo Burrito.
Customize your burritos: When ordering burritos, remove any animal-based ingredients such as cheese or sour cream. Instead, opt for items like the 8 Layer Veggie Burrito, which excludes cheese and sour cream by default.
Explore the sides: Del Taco offers vegan-friendly sides such as Crinkle Cut Fries and Hashbrowns. These delicious options make for a satisfying addition to your meal.
Be cautious with sauces and dressings: While some of Del Tacos sauces and dressings may be vegan, others may contain animal-based ingredients. It’s advisable to inquire about the ingredients or request vegan-friendly options such as guacamole or salsa.
Double-check ingredients: As with any dining experience, it’s always a good practice to confirm ingredients and preparation methods with the restaurant staff to ensure your meal aligns with your vegan preferences.

As you can see, Del Taco provides a range of vegan options and vegetarian choices to accommodate individuals following plant-based diets. From vegan burritos to vegetarian tostadas and bowls, there are numerous flavorful and satisfying options to choose from.

By making simple modifications and customizations, vegans can enjoy a satisfying meal at Del Taco while adhering to their dietary choices. It’s important for individuals to double-check ingredients, ask for vegan substitutes, and communicate their preferences to ensure a delicious and cruelty-free dining experience.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a full meal, Del Taco vegan options and vegetarian menu items offer a delicious alternative to traditional fast food.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common sources of protein in a vegan diet?

Common sources of protein in a vegan diet include legumes (such as pinto beans, lentils, and chickpeas), tofu, tempeh, seitan, edamame, quinoa, nuts, and seeds. Additionally, some plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond Meat Crumbles and tofu-based products can provide a significant protein boost.

How can vegans ensure they get enough vitamin B12?

Vegans can obtain vitamin B12 through fortified foods like plant-based milk, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast. It is also recommended to consider taking a vitamin B12 supplement to meet the daily requirements. Regular blood tests and consultation with a healthcare professional can help monitor and manage vitamin B12 levels.

Can a vegan diet provide sufficient calcium for bone health?

Yes, a vegan diet can provide sufficient calcium for bone health. Good plant-based sources of calcium include leafy greens (such as kale, collard greens, and bok choy), tofu made with calcium sulfate, fortified plant-based milk, calcium-fortified orange juice, and some types of nuts and seeds (like almonds and sesame seeds). It is important to ensure an adequate intake of these calcium-rich foods in a well-balanced vegan diet.

Are there any specific nutrients that vegans need to pay attention to?

Vegans should pay attention to nutrients like iron, omega-3 fatty acids (such as ALA, EPA, and DHA), iodine, zinc, and vitamin D. Including iron-rich plant foods like legumes, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens can help meet iron needs. Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and algae-based supplements. Vegans can ensure sufficient iodine intake through iodized salt or seaweed. Zinc can be sourced from legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Vitamin D can be obtained through sun exposure or fortified foods, and supplementation may be necessary depending on individual circumstances.

Is it possible for children and pregnant women to follow a vegan diet?

Yes, it is possible for children and pregnant women to follow a vegan diet. However, special attention should be given to meeting their specific nutrient needs to support growth, development, and overall health. Consulting with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians who specialize in vegan nutrition is highly recommended to ensure proper planning and monitoring of nutrient intake during these critical stages of life.

Final Thoughts on Del Taco Vegan Options

Overall, Del Taco offers a diverse range of vegan and vegetarian options, catering to those seeking delicious plant-based alternatives. From the Beyond Meat-based burritos to the customizable salads, sides like Crinkle Cut Fries and Hashbrowns, and delectable desserts such as the Mini Cinnamon Churros, there is something to satisfy every craving.

With their commitment to providing vegan-friendly options, Del Taco proves that vegan and vegetarian dining can be both flavorful and enjoyable. So, whether you’re following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, or simply looking to explore plant-based choices, Del Taco is a go-to destination for a tasty and satisfying meal.

If you want more info on vegan-friendly fast-food chains, click here for more!