Panda Express Super Greens: Gluten-Free Recipe

If you are the person who wants to take care of your health or wants to make smarter food choices, Super Greens can be one of the best sides to order. Most fast food side dishes are packed with extra calories, unhealthy fats, and too many carbs. This can be less healthy for you. Super Greens is the lighter choice with more nutritious options.

Super Greens at Panda Express are a mix of healthy vegetables like broccoli, kale, and cabbage. These vegetables are lightly cooked and seasoned. If you want to eat something tasty, it is an excellent choice for you.

"Panda Express Super Greens Gluten-Free Recipe promotional banner featuring broccoli, kale, and cabbage in a bowl with bold yellow and red branding."

These veggies give you fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Super Greens are perfect for people who are watching their diet and trying to eat more vegetables. This article will briefly explain Super Greens, their nutrients, and benefits. I will also compare them to other Panda Express side dishes. On top of that, we will talk about the health benefits you can get from eating them.

Let’s explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and more about this recipe. So keep reading!

What are Super Greens at Panda Express

Panda Express Super Greens is a simple but healthy side dish made with three main vegetables: broccoli, kale, and cabbage. The vegetables are lightly cooked. To add flavor and a nice crunch, it is cooked with a bit of garlic and oil. The reason behind this dish is to give customers a light option that is rich in nutrients but not heavy in calories. It was added to the menu to replace older mixed vegetable sides because people want healthier and more plant-based choices.

Panda Express Super Greens are a good option if you want to make your meal healthier. You can take Super Greens with fried rice or orange Chicken. These veggies, like broccoli, kale, and cabbage, give you essential nutrients like vitamins and fiber. These veggies make your meal colorful, and you can enjoy your food without feeling heavy.

History of Super Greens at Panda Express

The history of Super Greens at Panda Express shows how the brand responds to the customer’s needs. As a replacement for “Mixed Vegetables,” Super Greens was added to the menu in 2019. The old dish had a wide variety of veggies, but that was not very popular. People demanded fresh and light options, so Panda Express included broccoli, kale, and Cabbage in its menu.

The reason for choosing these vegetables is that they are nutrient-rich, colorful, and taste good. The idea was to give customers a simple, clean side dish that they can use with heavy foods like Orange Chicken or Chowmein. By introducing Super Greens, Panda Express shows that even in fast food, people can get healthier and plant-based choices.

Full Nutritional Breakdown & Allergen Info of Panda Express Super Greens

Nutrients Amount What it means
Calories 130 kcalVery low in calories, only about 7% of a full day’s intake
Total Fat4gSmall amount of fat, mostly from light seasoning
Saturated Fat0gNo unhealthy fats here
Trans Fat0gCompletely free of trans fat
Cholesterol 0mg100% cholesterol free
Sodium 370mgModerate amount about 16% of daily limit, so watch if you are reducing salt
Carbohydrates 14gLow in carbs compared to rice or noodles
Dietary Fiber 7gVery high in fiber
Sugars 6gNatural sugar from vegetables, not added sugar
Proteins 9gGood protein boost for a veggie side

Nutrition Facts: What You’re Actually Getting

The best thing about Panda Express Super Greens is that you clearly know what you are eating. A regular 10-oz serving has about 130 calories, 4 grams of fat, 14 grams of carbs, 7 grams of fiber, 6 grams of natural sugars, and 9 grams of protein. There is a good fiber in it, and the protein is more than you would expect from most vegetables. It also has no trans fat, no cholesterol, and no saturated fat, so it becomes a clean and healthy option for everyone.

The mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage not only tastes fresh, but it also gives you essential nutrients. Other Panda Express sides like rice or Chowmein, Super Greens are much lighter and easier to digest. People who want to maintain their health goals are wise choices. You can also visit Official site of Panda Express to know more about Panda Express Super Greens:

Ingredients & Flavor Profile Of Panda Express Super Greens

Super Greens are made with three main vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage. These are all very healthy greens that give both good nutrition and a nice texture. The taste is mildly bitter from veggies and flavored with its light seasoning.  For extra taste, it is sometimes cooked with garlic or a little sauce. The super Greens are crispy in texture. The broccoli and cabbage are soft enough to chew easily, but also have some crunch in them.

The dish becomes fresher and more satisfying, which is why many people like it. However, the texture and flavor sometimes are a little different depending on how each restaurant cooks them. In some places, they may be soft, while in other areas, they may be crunchy. The perfect combination of flavors makes Super Greens a side dish. It feels light, fresh, and healthy compared to rice and noodles. This simple dish adds balance to your meal.

Health Benefits You Should Know

High in Fiber

In one serving, Super Greens has about 7 grams of fiber. It helps in the better digestion of food in the stomach. It can control blood sugar levels so you can stay healthy and active. Eating enough fiber is suitable for weight control. It keeps you satisfied without overeating. It is also essential for gut and regular digestion.

Low in Calories

It has around 130 calories in a serving. Super Greens is one of the lightest options at Panda Express. It is much lighter in fats and calories compared to other sides like fried rice or chow mein. People who want to lose weight, it is a wise choice for them. You can enjoy your favorite food without worrying about calories.

Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

The vegetables in Super Greens are full of vitamins like A, C, and K. They also have minerals like calcium and potassium. It helps in supporting your immune system and keeping your body strong. It also protects you from different illnesses.

The veggies also have antioxidants and plant compounds that will fight inflammation in the body. Broccoli has an ingredient called Sulforaphane, which helps in balancing hormones and reduces stress on your cells.

Good for Plant-Based Diets

The people who don’t want to eat meat or want to add more plants to their meals. In this way, you can include more vegetables in your diet without extra cooking. It is suitable for your diet plans because it does not have any animal products. You can make your meal healthier if you add more plant-based food to your diet.

Helps Balance Your Meal

Super Greens balance the fast food meal, which is heavy in carbs, oils, and fried items. The vegetables add color and crunch to your meal. It is full of nutrients. You can enjoy your favorite food like Orange Chicken or Beijing Beef. It brings balance to your meal according to your diet plans.

Instructions for Panda Express Super Greens

Here are quick steps to make the super greens Panda express recipe at home. However, to make this recipe, you should ensure that you have collected all essential ingredients.

Yes, absolutely. They can have this dish happily as it is full of vegetables.
  1. Make the Veggies:
    After washing the broccoli, cut it into pieces. Chop the cabbage and kale as well.  Also, remove stems from kale.
  2. Set Up Steamer:
    Take some water in a large pot and put a steamer inside it.
  3. Steam the Vegetables:
    Add broccoli first and steam for 2 minutes. Then add cabbage and kale on top. To make the vegetables tender and juicy, steam them all together for some time.
  4. Serve it Hot:
    Now take out the dish on a plate. Eat it hot and enjoy it with your favourite drink.
  5. Season:

You can add some ingredients as seasonings like salt, olive oil, and garlic powder.

Note: Don’t overcook it. So, you need to be an expert in that to cook the right amount.

  Comparison of Panda Express Greens with Other Fast-Food Veggie Sides 

Fast Food ChainVeggie Side OptionWhat You GetWhy it’s different
Panda ExpressSuper Greens(broccoli,kale,cabbage)Lightly cooked, seasoned veggies with fiber, vitamins and crunchStands out because it has kale and cabbage which most fast food places don’t offer. Feel fresh and more filling
KFCGreen BeansSoft green beans with some seasoningSimple and lower in calories but not as nutrients rich as Super greens
SubwaySide SaladLettuce, tomato,cucumber maybe a few peppersFresh but mostly raw veggies, lighter than cooked sides. Not as hearty or filling as Super Greens
McDonaldsSide SaladIceberg lettuce, shredded carrots, grape tomatoesRefreshing but very basic. Does not have fiber rich greens like kale or broccoli
ChipotleFajita veggies(bell peppers and onions)Grilled peppers and onions smoky flavorTasty and fresh but less variety of nutrients compared to panda’s mix of greens

Nutritional Information of Super Greens Recipe

However, we all know that it is a delicious and healthy option to eat. But for more detail overview, here is a nutritional information of this recipe:

Nutrient

Amount per Serving

Calories

90g

Total Fat

4g

Saturated Fat

0.5g

Trans Fat

0g

Cholesterol

0mg

Sodium

260mg

Total Carbohydrates

10g

Dietary Fiber

5g

Sugars

2g

Protein

4g

Drawbacks & Things to Watch Out For

Panda Express Super Greens are one of the healthier sides at Panda Express, but they also have some drawbacks. Let’s discuss these.

Sodium Content

There is about 370 mg of sodium in 10 10-oz servings. This quantity is not high, but it can affect you. If you are conscious about your salt intake or about blood pressure, it is something to be careful with.

Allergens

Super Greens contain soy and Wheat. You should avoid them if you have any allergies or food sensitivities. If you have some dietary problems, always check before ordering.

Variation in Preparation

Panda Express Super Greens has so many locations, so Super Greens are cooked differently at different places. Some restaurants may use more oil or cook the vegetables for a longer period, which can make them softer and higher in calories. So the taste and texture can be different at different places.

Taste Preferences

It is not liked by everyone because people have different tastes. Some think that it is mild because it is not heavily seasoned. Others like the simplicity and freshness. If you want more flavor, you can add sauce to it. But be careful, extra sauce can add more calories and sodium.

 Fun Facts About the Ingredients

Kale – The Super Food

Kale is often called a super food because it is full of nutrients that your body needs. It has vitamins like A, C, and K. These vitamins are essential for your eyes, skin, and bones.

It also has a lot of fiber that helps your stomach by keeping it full. Many people like it in salad, smoothies, or as a side dish. The reason it is called super is that it gives so much nutrition with very few calories. Eating kale regularly helps you stay healthy in a simple way.

Broccoli – The inflammation Fighter

It is a very popular vegetable and is known for being extra healthy. It has vitamins, fiber, and a compound called Sulforaphane. This compound helps in fighting inflammation in the body. It can protect your cells from damage. Broccoli is also suitable for digestion and can support your immune system.

Many people enjoy it steamed, roasted, or in stir-fries. It is one of the most studied vegetables because of its fantastic health benefits.

Cabbage – The Ancient Vegetable

Cabbage is one of the oldest vegetables people have grown and eaten. It has been a part of the diet for thousands of years in different countries all around the world. Cabbage is very versatile; you can eat it raw in salads or cooked in soups.

It is also used in fermented sauerkraut or Kimchi. It has a lot of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which supports your immune system. Cabbage is also very cheap and easy to find. Because of its long history, it is still a favorite vegetable in many cultures today.

Panda Express Super Greens vs. other common Panda Express sides

Side DishCalories and CarbsFiber and proteinOther Notes
Steamed White RiceHigh in carbs, moderate caloriesVery low fiber, very little proteinFills you up quickly but not very nutritious
Chowmein High in carbs and caloriesLow fiber, moderate proteinCooked with oil and sauce, so heavier and less healthy
Fried RiceHigh in carbs, higher calories and fatLow fiber, some proteinExtra oil and sauce make it calorie dense
Super GreensLow calories, low carbsHigh fiberNutrient rich, lighter, helps with fullness and balance

Best for:

  • People who want to lose weight by eating fewer calories are best suited.
  • People who want to keep their blood sugar normal are perfect for them.
  • It is best for anyone who wants a complete meal without overeating.
  • The people who are looking for vitamins, minerals, and overall nutrition.

Best Ways to Pair Panda Express Super Greens & Meal Hacks

To make the most of your Super Greens, you can use a few brilliant meal hacks.

Pair With Lean Protein

You can eat them with light dishes like String Bean Chicken Breast, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, or Broccoli Beef. In this way, you can get both protein and veggies with fewer calories.

Go Half and Half with Sides

If you love rice and noodles, then there is no need to skip them. You can order half Super Greens and half rice or noodles. In this way, you can get the best meal. You can get both carbs for energy and veggies for fiber and balance.

Watch the Sauces

Sauces can add extra salt, oil, and sugar. A good trick is to use a light sauce so you can control how much you use.

Choose Wok Smart Options

Panda Express has Wok Smart meals that are lighter in calories. It is a good way to keep your meals healthier.

Boost Flavor Naturally

You can add different things if you want more taste. You can add garlic, herbs, a squeeze of lemon or lime, or soy sauce. These items add flavor without any extra calories or sugar.

Kid-Friendly or Family Appeal

The families who want healthy meals, Super Greens are a wise choice for them. Parents said that their kids like the crunchy texture of broccoli and cabbage. This dish is less spicy, which is why it is perfect for kids. Families can order one significant portion and share it. In this way, everyone can enjoy vegetables. It is a nice way to balance a heavy entree like orange Chicken or fried rice.

For busy parents, the side dish helps to take away the stress. It makes sure that their kids eat enough vegetables because it is already prepared and ready to go. It can help children build good eating habits in a simple way.

Portion Sizes & Serving Suggestions

When you order Panda Express Super Greens at Panda Express, one serving is about 10 ounces. It is enough to fill a side bowl and can feel satisfying even on its own because it is broccoli, kale, and cabbage. It has a lot of fiber and feels light. You can enjoy Super Greens in many ways. If you want a lighter meal, you can order it as your main side instead of rice and noodles.

If you don’t want to skip carbs, you can ask for half Super Greens and half Rice or Chowmein. In this way, you can still enjoy your favorite carbs by balancing them with vegetables. Super Greens are also good with heavy foods like Orange Chicken or Beijing Beef.

It helps to balance the taste of those dishes. You can pair it with lean protein like Grilled Teriyaki Chicken or String Bean Chicken Breast if you want something extra healthy. It becomes a perfect meal which is tasty, balanced, and not too heavy.

Homemade Super Greens (Copycat Panda Express Recipe)

If you want to enjoy Super Greens at home with the same flavor, you can make the recipe by following some easy steps to get the same taste.

Ingredients

  • Broccoli Florets(cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • Kale(chopped with thick stems removed)
  • Cabbage (shredded)
  • Garlic (finely chopped)
  • A little cooking oil (canola, soybean, or olive  oil)
  • low-sodium soy sauce or vegetable broth(optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sesame oil or lemon juice for extra flavor (optional)

Steps for the recipe

  • First, lightly steam the broccoli, kale, and cabbage until they are tender but still have a crunch. Don’t overcook them.
  • After that, heat a small amount of oil in a pan or Wok on medium heat. Add garlic and cook for just a few seconds until it smells good.
  • Then add the vegetables and stir them around quickly. If they feel too dry, add some water or broth to help them cook.
  • Mix a little soy sauce with broth if you want a sauce. You can also add cornstarch to water, and it will thicken.
  • For extra taste, add some salt and pepper. You can also add some lemon juice or some sesame oil.
  • If you make this at home, you can add oil, salt, or sauce according to your taste. It is quick, healthy, and can be even fresher than a restaurant.

Cost & Value Analysis

Panda Express Super Greens usually cost between $2.50 and $3.50 as a side dish. It might be a little more expensive than steamed rice or Chowmein, but its health benefits can be more than that. You don’t just get extra carbs or fried food, but you can get full of vegetables, fiber, and even some protein. When you eat Super Greens with lighter options, your plate becomes healthier and lower in calories.

It makes Super Greens a good value for your money and health. Its price is a bit higher, but its benefits are excellent without feeling heavy. It gives you more energy and essential nutrients. It can help you lose weight and keep your digestion better. It is a simple choice, but it can give you more benefits.

Customer Reviews & Ratings Summary

People gave good reviews to those who tried Panda Express Super Greens at Panda Express. The customers say that they like the taste and crunch of the vegetables. In this way, this dish becomes lighter and healthier than other sides.  Many people also appreciate that it is a good option for adding more vegetables to their meals. On the other hand, some people think that the taste is too mild, especially if they are used to stronger sauces or seasonings.

A few people report that the texture can be different depending on the location. Sometimes the veggies are perfectly crisp, while other times they are a little too soft. Even with these minor issues, Super Greens are still rated as one of the best sides for anyone who wants a healthier and plant-based choice at Panda Express.

Meal Prep & Leftovers Tips

Panda Express Super Greens are also great for meal prep or serving as leftovers. It will still taste fresh if you keep it in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you want to reheat them, use a microwave or warm them on the stovetop at low heat. The vegetables remain tender without getting soft. Leftover Super Greens can be used in many creative ways, too. For breakfast, you can add them to an omelet. For lunch, you can add them to a wrap. For extra flavor and nutrition, you can add them to a salad.

You can also add the leftovers to a soup or as a topping on a grain bowl. This becomes a flexible and budget-friendly option, so you can get more meals and still keep things healthy.

Cultural & Regional Popularity

The people who care a lot about their health, Panda Express Super Greens are a popular choice for them. These people belong to California and the Pacific Northwest. People in these areas are looking for lighter and more nutritious choices. These dishes fit their lifestyle well.

Panda Express promotes its healthy options in the regions where people want healthier meals. This shows how the company is paying attention to changing food trends. The company works for customers who prefer fresh, plant-based, and low-calorie meals.

The popularity of Super Greens in these areas shows that fast food restaurants are changing to meet the needs of people. More and more customers are asking for healthier meals and dishes. It proves that in fast food, people now want lighter, fresher, and more balanced choices in meals.Check the Latest deals of Panda Express Menu:

Conclusion

Panda Express Super Greens is one of the best choices if you want a side dish that is both tasty and healthy. It gives you a good mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage, which are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. As compared to other heavier sides like fried rice or Chowmein, it is much lighter in calories and easier to digest.

Super Greens also balance the rich and saucy taste at Panda Express. If you are trying to lose weight or want to eat more vegetables, it is an excellent choice for you. It is a simple and affordable option. It proves that fast food can still offer something fresh, healthy, and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a side dish made with broccoli, kale, and cabbage. They are lightly cooked and taste fresh and healthy.

Yes, they are very healthy. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and full of vitamins and minerals.

One serving has around 130 calories. It is one of the lowest-calorie sides at Panda Express.

Yes, they have about 9 grams of protein per serving, which is high for a veggie side.

The main drawback is the sodium content (about 370mg). The taste and texture may also vary depending on the restaurant.

Yes, they are suitable for kids. The mild taste and crunchy texture make it easy to enjoy.

Yes, you can make it at home. Just steam or saute broccoli, kale, and cabbage with a bit of garlic and oil. You can add soy sauce or lemon for extra flavor.