Fit & Active Southwest Veggie Stuffed Sandwiches: Product Review

If you are in search of something different to eat for lunch or dinner, consider Southwest Veggie stuffed sandwiches by Fit and Active. The product is distributed by Aldi, Inc , a grocery chain which has its headquarters in Germany and has appeared on the American scene as an alternative to the supermarket giants. Aldi's features grocery and some household items at "no frill" prices that hit the pocketbook real easily in this present economy. While the selection of food products may not be as varied as your big name supermarkets, we find that their products are good for stocking the pantry with necessary items at a very reasonable price. We found the Fit and Active Southwest Veggie stuffed sandwiches about six months ago and have been quite satisfied with this product.

What is it?

The Southwest Veggie stuffed sandwich as described on its packaging is a vegetarian sandwich filled with chiles, black beans, corn, salsa and pepperjack cheese wrapped in a soft bread. The 9 ounce package contains two stuffed sandwiches wrapped in a very soft bread.

Preparation

The product is very easy to prepare in either a microwave or conventional oven. To ensure safety, keep the product frozen until ready to use and refrigerate any leftovers immediately.

Microwave Oven
I obtained excellent results with the microwave which was a savings in time and electricity. To prepare for microwave cooking, the directions state that you open either end of the paper wrap in which the stuffed sandwich is enclosed. Cook on high between 1 minute and 45 seconds to 2 minutes 15 seconds. Of course, microwaves vary in wattage so you have to determine what is the correct time for your microwave oven. When the sandwich is cooked, carefully remove the stuffed sandwich from the paper overwrap. The directions caution that the sandwich is to be cooked thoroughly and that an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit should be reached.

Conventional Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and remove and throw away the paper wrapper. (Note this step differs from the the microwave instruction). Put the unwrapped stuffed sandwich on a flat pan or baking sheet and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes depending upon your oven temperature. When cooked, remove the stuffed sandwich from the tray and allow it to stand to cook for about 1 or 2 minutes. As with the microwave instruction, the directions clearly state that the internal temperature reach 165 degrees F. Use a food thermometer to ensure that the product has reached its optimum temperature to ensure safety.

Nutritional Information

According to the information listed on the product's nutrition panel. the Fit and Active Southwest Veggie stuffed sandwiches contain 270 calories for each sandwich. Total fat is 6 grams with 0 g of trans fat. Cholesterol is listed at less than 5 mg while the sodium content is 650 g or 20%. The product contains 10% protein with Vitamin A at 4%, Calcium at 6 %, Iron at 15% and Vitamin C a 0%. There is no meat in this sandwich so it can be thoroughly enjoyed by vegetarians. The product contains milk, wheat and soy.

Where to Purchase

I have purchased this product at Aldi's grocery store and have not seen it in other retail supermarkets. Aldi's has been expanding its store locations for several years. To find the closest Aldi or obtain more information about their products, view the website www. ALDI.com. They can be contacted by writing to Aldi, Inc., Batavia, IL 60510-1477.

I recommend the Fit and Active Southwest Veggie stuffed Sandwiches. The preparation steps are clearly written and the packaging is colorful and appealing. In a time of diet and health conscious consumers, the nutritional information is quite complete and informative. The nutritional content is listed prominently on the front of the packaging and is in full view on the back and side panel. The Fit and Active Southwest Veggie stuffed sandwiches are easy to prepare and have a pleasing but not overbearing taste that captures the sharp, piquant southwest flavor. The sandwiches can be served alone or with soup or salad for a low cost healthy meal.