Arby's is a fast-food chain known for its roast beef sandwiches and meat-heavy menu, which can be a challenge for vegans. However, with a bit of creativity and customization, it's possible to find vegan-friendly options at Arby's. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the vegan choices available, how to customize your orders, and tips for enjoying a vegan meal at Arby's.
Why You'll Love This Guide
- Discover Hidden Gems: Learn about the vegan-friendly items on Arby's menu, including sides and beverages.
- Customization Tips: Find out how to modify existing menu items to fit a vegan diet.
- Health Insights: Understand the nutritional benefits of choosing plant-based options at a fast-food restaurant.
- FAQ Section: Get answers to common questions about dining vegan at Arby's.
Vegan Options at Arby's
Sides
Arby's offers a few sides that are vegan-friendly, which can help you put together a satisfying meal:
- Curly Fries: These iconic fries are vegan-friendly and seasoned to perfection.
- Homestyle Fries: A classic choice, these fries are simple and vegan.
- Potato Cakes: Made with potatoes and vegetable oil, these are a tasty and filling option for vegans.
Salads
While Arby's salads typically come with meat and cheese, you can customize them to make them vegan:
- Side Salad: Request this salad without cheese and add a vegan-friendly dressing like Balsamic Vinaigrette.
- Chopped Side Salad: Similar to the side salad, but with a different mix of greens and veggies. Again, ask for no cheese and a vegan dressing.
Beverages
Arby's offers a variety of vegan-friendly beverages:
- Soft Drinks: Most fountain sodas are vegan.
- Iced Tea: Both sweetened and unsweetened options are available.
- Bottled Water: A simple, healthy choice.
Sauces and Dressings
Many of Arby's sauces and dressings contain animal products, but there are a few vegan-friendly options:
- Arby's Sauce: This tangy sauce is vegan-friendly and great for dipping fries.
- Bronco Berry Sauce: Another vegan option, this sweet and spicy sauce pairs well with sides.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: A suitable dressing for vegan salads.
Customizing Your Order
Arby's menu items can often be customized to fit a vegan diet. Here are some tips:
- Veggie Sandwich: Create a custom sandwich by requesting no meat and cheese. Add lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and your choice of vegan sauce.
- Salads: Enhance your side salad with extra vegetables and a vegan dressing.
- Wraps: If wraps are available, ask for a wrap without meat and cheese, and fill it with veggies and vegan-friendly sauces.
Health and Nutritional Insights
Choosing vegan options at Arby's can offer several health benefits:
- Lower in Saturated Fat: Plant-based foods typically have less saturated fat, promoting heart health.
- Higher in Fiber: Vegan diets often include more fiber, aiding in digestion and fullness.
- Rich in Nutrients: Plant-based meals can provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall well-being.
Variations
- Spicy Curly Fries: Add some heat by sprinkling red pepper flakes or chili powder on your curly fries.
- Loaded Potato Cakes: Top your potato cakes with vegan sour cream and chives for a savory treat.
- BBQ Veggie Wrap: Use vegan BBQ sauce in a custom veggie wrap for a smoky flavor.
- Southwest Salad: Add black beans, corn, and salsa to your side salad for a southwestern twist.
- Mediterranean Wrap: Use hummus as a base in your veggie wrap, and add cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives.
- Vegan French Toast Sticks: If available, request these without any non-vegan toppings or dips.
Substitutions
- Vegan Cheese: Bring your own vegan cheese to add to sandwiches or wraps.
- Vegan Mayo: Substitute regular mayo with vegan mayo in any custom orders.
- Plant-Based Meat: Use a vegan meat alternative like Impossible Meat or Beyond Meat at home to recreate Arby's sandwiches.
- Avocado: Add slices of avocado for a creamy texture in salads or wraps.
- Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle nutritional yeast on fries or salads for a cheesy flavor.
- Vegan Ranch Dressing: Use vegan ranch instead of traditional dressings for salads or wraps.
FAQ
1. Are the fries at Arby's vegan?
Yes, both the Curly Fries and Homestyle Fries at Arby's are vegan-friendly.
2. What sauces at Arby's are vegan?
Arby's Sauce, Bronco Berry Sauce, and Balsamic Vinaigrette are vegan-friendly.
3. Can I get a vegan sandwich at Arby's?
While Arby's does not offer a dedicated vegan sandwich, you can customize a sandwich by removing meat and cheese and adding vegetables and vegan sauces.
4. Are any desserts at Arby's vegan?
Currently, Arby's desserts like the Cherry Turnover and Apple Turnover contain animal products and are not vegan-friendly.
5. Are there any vegan protein options at Arby's?
Arby's does not offer vegan protein options like tofu or tempeh. You can create a filling meal by combining vegan sides and customizing your order.
6. How can I ensure my food is vegan?
Always double-check with the staff when ordering to ensure your modifications are understood and implemented. Communicate clearly to avoid cross-contamination.
Top Tips for Dining Vegan at Arby's
- Be Clear About Modifications: Clearly specify all modifications when ordering to avoid confusion.
- Check for Regional Variations: Menu items can vary by location, so check the specific offerings at your local Arby's.
- Stay Updated: Arby's may introduce new items or seasonal specials that could be vegan-friendly. Keep an eye on menu updates.
Hint
For a more satisfying meal, consider bringing your own vegan protein, like marinated tofu or a plant-based patty, to add to your customized veggie sandwich or salad. This ensures a more balanced and hearty vegan meal.
Final Thoughts
Dining vegan at Arby's might require some creativity and customization, but it's definitely possible to enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal. By focusing on vegan-friendly sides, beverages, and modifying existing menu items, you can navigate Arby's menu successfully. Always communicate your dietary needs clearly with the staff to ensure your meal is prepared according to your preferences. As the demand for vegan options continues to grow, we can hope that more plant-based choices will become available at Arby's and other popular fast-food chains.
Happy vegan dining!