This post shares 15 of my Healthiest Mexican Food recipes! You'll also learn the healthiest dishes to get while dining out, and what to avoid on a clean or low-calorie diet.
If you know me, you know I LOVE Mexican food. Something about all the different flavors, textures, colors, and spices has me consistently making healthy Mexican recipes.
This post shares 15 delicious Mexican-style dishes that use clean cooking methods, healthy ingredients, and proper portioning. It will read similar to my 3 Healthier Takeout Options to Make at Home. (Check this one out, too, if you haven't already).
Ready to make fiesta-worthy, clean-approved Mexican recipes without sacrificing flavor and richness? Let's get into it!
Tips for Health Eating at Mexican Restaurants
Looked For Grilled Meats
Grilled meat is an excellent option if you're looking for something lower calorie at a restaurant. Go for grilled protein tacos like chicken, beef, or steak — and of course — fish!
Simple Sides
Choose healthy sides with your proteins, like fresh fruit, black beans, or grilled veggies.
Don't Forget The Salsa
Salsa is a great way to add lots of flavor to your meal without a ton of added fat.
Corn Over Flour
Go with corn tortillas for less refined flour and lard than flour tortillas.
Pass (On) The Margarita
Instead of getting a high-sugar margarita, opt for a water or iced tea to avoid added sugar.
The Best Things To Order At Mexican Restaurants
It's not impossible to eat healthy at a Mexican restaurant, but you have to be intentional and choose dishes based on cooking style and their nutritional benefits.
Here's a quick cheat sheet/ list of healthier options:
- Chicken fajitas
- Steak fajitas
- Grilled meat dishes (avoid deep-fried proteins)
- Burrito bowls
- Chicken tortilla soup
- Soft-shell tacos (When in doubt, choose soft tacos. Because less frying = less oil.)
- Brown rice
- Guacamole
What To Avoid At Mexican Restaurants
To cut the calories and potentially inflammatory foods, avoid or eat in moderation the following foods:
- Refried beans (lotsa lard and excess fat)
- Chimichanga (These are deep-fried burritos, so…a big no. If you love burritos, check out my clean make-ahead recipe here.)
- Queso (often loaded with fat and calories if traditional ingredients are used. Check out my healthy queso here.)
- Chile Relleno (These also have a ton of cheese in them and are deep-fried in oil.)
- Nachos (Usually deep-fried and covered with loads of cheese and lotsa sodium. Don’t worry, I’ve made a healthy sweet potato version here.)
- Tostadas
- Taquitos
- Deep-fried tortilla
What Are The Healthiest Mexican Food Recipes?
Ready to meet the fabulous 15 Healthiest Mexican Food recipes? All of the following are made frequently in my household. Because they are balanced and healthy, I feel great about serving them to my family and friends. Enjoy!
1. Slow-Cooker Green Chile Pork Tacos
Perfect for barbecues, a weeknight treat, or even lunches! These slow cooker pork tacos are juicy and savory but also keep things light and healthy.
2. Turkey Taco Bowl
Perfect for meal prepping, this Turkey Taco Bowl makes a filling and delicious lunch on the go. You’ll get a party in your mouth with a mix of greens, proteins, avocado, spices, and Greek yogurt. Wowza!
3. Cilantro Lime Chicken
This Cilantro Lime Chicken marinade is so easy to make and it’s perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing. Imagine the juicy chicken with a splash of lime in every bite. Heavenly.
4. Spicy Shrimp Tacos
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos feature juicy shrimp, pico de gallo, and a creamy avocado cilantro lime dressing. We’re also using a yummy corn tortilla.
5. Skinny Beef Enchiladas (With Cassava Tortillas)
The epitome of healthiest Mexican food! Enchiladas are my obsession. And most people don't know how easy they are to make! Learn how to make them on your own for a flavorful, filling, and satisfying meal.
6. The Perfect Guacamole
Your go-to Mexican dishes wouldn’t be the same without this classic dip. Keep your entrees and sides fresh and healthy by making your own guac!
7. Homemade Tomatillo Salsa Verde
This Tomatillo Salsa Verde recipe is simply the BOMB. Flavor bomb, that is. It goes great on tacos, burritos...to be honest, I'll put it on whatever's around.
8. Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas
This enchilada recipe is such a satisfying combo of flavors. And I make it with simple ingredients.
9. Huevos Rancheros
This dish is two of my fave things in one recipe: Breakfast and Mexican food. It’s got ingredients that I love like black beans, bell peppers, and avocado for garnish if you like. Not to mention jalapeno peppers and tasty spices!
10. Spicy Quinoa and Black Bean Vegan Enchiladas
Black beans are one of the most nutrient-dense ingredients, and we make good use of them in these vegan enchiladas. You won't even miss the meat.
11. Quinoa Taco Bowl
This one's great to prepare for those lazy days when you don't feel like cooking something from scratch. Prep it in advance and it'll be ready when you want something flavorful, clean, and quick!
12. Chicken Tacos
Family favorite right here! The secret of clean and ultra-delicious tacos is my homemade taco seasoning blend with a beautiful chipotle lime sauce. Ahhh.
13. Pork Tamales
These tamales are easier to make than you think. And it's a hands-on process (which I find quite enjoyable).
14. My Go-To Pico De Gallo
Soooo in love with this pico! I use it on tacos, burritos, healthy nachos, and so much more. Why? Probably because it's versatile, refreshing, and will add a burst of flavor (and color) to anything it’s on.
15. Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
When a burrito craving hits, try this. These chicken burrito bowls contain cauliflower rice so it is very satisfying without a lot of excess calories. Yay!
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