6 Delicious, Low-Calorie Bun Alternatives

When it comes to buns, why not think outside the box? After all, part of the fun in eating is experimenting with new flavors and enjoying food in different ways.  Adding variety to your diet, even by swapping a bun, can be a clever way to introduce yourself to new nutrients.  So, whether you’re motivated to find a more calorie-conscious choice or simply looking to switch up your usual go-to, there are plenty of bun alternatives available.  We rounded up some enticing choices that are definitely worth considering.

6 Alternatives to Buns

1. Lettuce

Why not increase your daily intake of greens by using lettuce in place of your bun?  Iceberg, butter lettuce, or collard greens work extremely well as a bun since they are larger in size to easily accommodate cheese, meat, or whatever else you want to toss inside.  Plus, lettuce is very low in calories and carbs while still adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.

2. Portobello Mushroom Caps

Another veggie worth considering is a portobello mushroom cap.  You’ll need to remove the stem first and then cook it either on the grill or roasting, but once done, it yields a delicious tender texture.  One whole portobello mushroom cap contains around 20 calories and 3 grams of carbohydrates.  Plus, it’s free of sodium if you’re limiting your intake.

3. Cloud Bread

Miss the baking aspect of bread?  Try cloud bread.  It is a popular bread choice among the low-carb and keto communities and is made from eggs, cream cheese, and cream of tartar.  It has a light, fluffy texture hence the name cloud. You can find various recipes online, or even some grocery stores carry this trendy product in the frozen section.

4. Sweet Potato Buns

Sure, sweet potatoes are still considered a carbohydrate, but they bring something to the table that a regular bun cannot – beta-carotene.  Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that gives sweet potatoes their vibrant orange color.  To turn it into a bun, simply slice a sweet potato into thick rounds and bake or grill them until cooked through. Some grocers offer presliced sweet potatoes in the freezer section. 

5. Sandwich Thin

If you prefer a more traditional bun, opt for a whole wheat or multigrain sandwich thin instead. These buns are thinner in size but still offer that same trusted taste many crave.  What sets them apart is they typically contain around 100 calories and fewer carbohydrates.

6. Pita Pockets

Add a Mediterranean flare to your meal by opting for a pita pocket. Look for small-sized whole wheat or whole grain pita pockets, which are usually around 100 calories each. The pre-sliced pocket makes it a mess-free, convenient, and delicious choice. Plus, if you have yet to try hummus as a spread, now could be the time to see if you like this plant-based dip.

The Bottom Line

The possibilities are endless when it comes to buns that are both flavorful and low in calories. So why not try something new the next time your recipe calls for a bun?