The BEST Healthy Mexican Food Recipes - Isabel Eats (2024)

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Looking to add more healthy recipes to your menu? Here are 25 Healthy Mexican food recipes to help you stay on track.

The BEST Healthy Mexican Food Recipes - Isabel Eats (1)

Mexican food tends to get a bad rap. Many people associate the cuisine with queso dip, fried taquitos and oversized burritos covered in a creamy sauce. Don’t get me wrong, I love those dishes as much as everyone else, but that’s not what all Mexican food is like.

Mexican food can be very healthy and balanced. It packs a huge punch of flavor, uses lots of fresh and bright ingredients like cilantro, limes, and peppers and is never boring.

To help you see some of the healthy Mexican food recipes you can make at home, I’ve put together a list of my favorite 25 recipes that will get you eating healthy during the week, make wonderful leftovers for lunch the next day and perfect for meal prepping on the weekends.

25 Healthy Mexican Food Recipes

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite healthy Mexican food recipes that will help you feel good from the inside out.

1. Easy Steak Fajitas

These Easy Steak Fajitas are juicy, tender, flavorful and way better than the ones at your favorite Mexican restaurant! Serve them with a healthy dose of peppers and onions, guacamole and plain Greek yogurt or sour cream!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo)

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2. Easy Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

These easy crockpot chicken fajitas are made with only 6 ingredients! Serve them in tacos for an easy weeknight meal or in burrito bowls and salads for a healthy lunch!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo)

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3. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

These Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are a favorite Mexican weeknight dinner recipe that’s ready in only 30 minutes. Seasoned chicken breast, bell peppers and onions are baked on one sheet pan all at the same time!

(gluten free, paleo, low carb)

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4. Healthy Chicken Nachos

This Healthy Chicken Nachos recipe is made with mini bell peppers instead of tortilla chips and ground chicken for lots of protein.

(gluten free, low carb)

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5. Mexican Cauliflower Rice

This Mexican Cauliflower Rice is a delicious and healthy low-carb alternative to traditional Mexican rice. Made with cauliflower, tomatoes, onions, garlic and spices, it’s ready in only 25 minutes.

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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6. Easy Guacamole Recipe

This simple and easy guacamole recipe is THE BEST! Ready in only 10 minutes, you can serve it with chips, on a salad, in tacos and on even toast.

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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7. Healthy Avocado Salad

This Avocado Salad recipe is a healthy, fresh and insanely addicting side dish perfect for bbqs, potlucks and get togethers! Ready in only 10 minutes.

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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8. Easy Carnitas Recipe

Seasoned with oregano, cumin, chili powder, lime juice, and other spices, these Carnitas are juicy and flavorful Mexican pulled pork perfect for tacos, tostadas, salads and more!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo)

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9. Carne Asada Recipe

A delicious Carne Asada recipe made from marinated flank or skirt steak and cooked on the grill. Juicy, tender and a great addition to any Mexican meal!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo)

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10. Chicken and Green Chile Egg Muffins

These easy, healthy and filling Chicken and Green Chile Egg Muffins are ready in only 30 minutes. It’s perfect for meal prep and breakfast on-the-go.

(gluten free, low carb, paleo)

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11. Chipotle Pumpkin Turkey Chili

This Chipotle Pumpkin Turkey Chili recipe is made with pumpkin, sweet potatoes, beans and chipotle peppers for a healthy one pot meal!

(gluten free)

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12. Easy Salsa Verde Recipe

This Salsa Verde recipe is one of my favorite salsas ever! It’s so easy to make, packs a huge punch of tangy, zesty flavor and is so versatile, it can be used in countless dishes and recipes.

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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13. Fish Tacos with Chipotle Lime Crema

Made with a bright and creamy chipotle lime crema made with Greek yogurt and lime juice, these Fish Tacos take only 15 minutes to make!

(gluten free, low carb)

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14. Salsa Verde Breakfast Frittata

This Salsa Verde Breakfast Frittata is what breakfast dreams are made of. Topped with a salsa verde yogurt sauce, this recipe is perfect for brunch or meal prep.

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegetarian)

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15. Taco Soup Recipe

This Taco Soup recipe delivers all the flavor of your favorite ground beef tacos, but in a soup! Serve with your favorite taco toppings and tortilla chips for a little crunch!

(gluten free)

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16. Mexican Pico de Gallo Recipe

This Mexican Pico de Gallo recipe is made with fresh tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro and lime juice for a deliciously healthy appetizer! Serve it with chips as a dip or as a topping on tacos, tostadas, burritos and more!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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17. Quinoa Enchilada Bake

This Quinoa Enchilada Bake is packed with good-for-you ingredients like broccoli, bell peppers, onions, black beans and quinoa. It’s healthy, easy to make and filled with lots of veggies!

(gluten free, vegetarian)

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18. Easy Black Bean Soup

Made with canned black beans, onions, tomatoes, garlic and lots of spices, this Black Bean Soup is the perfect weekday lunch that will keep you full and focused throughout the afternoon!

(gluten free, vegan, vegetarian)

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19. Chipotle Roasted Cauliflower

This Chipotle Cauliflower isslathered in a smoky/spicy/buttery chipotle sauce and roasted to crispy crunchy perfection for the best low carb side dish you’ll ever have!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegetarian)

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20. Low Carb Enchilada Cabbage Rolls

These Low Carb Enchilada Cabbage Rolls are made with cabbage leaves instead of tortillas and stuffed with chicken, cheese and green chiles for a healthy weeknight meal!

(gluten free, low carb)

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21. Green Enchilada Sauce

This Green Enchilada Sauce recipe is made from roasted green chiles, onions, garlic, and some classic Mexican herbs and spices all in only 20 minutes! It’s easy to make and great for making enchiladas, chilaquiles and more.

(gluten free, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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22. Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

This Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is ready in only 15 minutes andwill help you get more veggies on the table in no time!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo, vegan, vegetarian)

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23. Easy Green Chicken Chili

This Easy Green Chicken Chili is a healthy and comforting one pot soup made with salsa verde and white beans. Naturally gluten free, it’s a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family!

(gluten free)

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24. Mexican Avocado Tuna Salad

This Tuna Salad combines healthy fat from avocados and lean protein from tuna for a quick and easy mayo-free lunch or snack!

(gluten free, low carb, paleo)

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25. Easy Enchilada Sauce

Ready in only 10 minutes, this easy enchilada sauce is super simple to make and requires no dried chiles! All you need are a few staple herbs and spices in your pantry and you’re good to go!

(gluten free, vegan, vegetarian)

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My favorite meal prep tools

  • Glass meal prep food containers: These are great for storing and reheating food easily and safely. Unlike plastic containers, these won’t warp and melt. They’re oven, microwave and dishwasher safe.
  • Glass mason jars: They’re perfect for side salads, soups, snacks and healthy sides like quinoa, brown rice and cauliflower rice.
  • Reusable condiment containers: These are leak proof and perfect for dressings, condiments and garnishes that you want to keep separate from the main meal. I like using these for things like guacamole, sour cream/plain Greek yogurt, salad dressing, chopped cilantro, cotija cheese, etc.

Leave a Reply

  1. Ruth

    Can I use brisket instead of skirt steak for carne asada?

    Reply

    1. Ana @ Isabel Eats

      Hi Ruth! You can try using the seasonings to get that carne asada type of flavor, but I would recommend cooking it slowly over lower heat since its a different cut of meat.

      Reply

  2. Cindy Chong

    My very dear Daughter-in-Law is Mexican raised. She has introduced us to authentic Mexican cuisine! So delicious! I am so thankful for your recipes and methods to create a meal when I have a hankering for something, without the need to take her away from her busy life…
    Thank you

    Reply

  3. Josseline Rios

    I have gastritis and All source but I love Mexican food. Is safe for me

    Reply

    1. Ana @ Isabel Eats

      Hi Josseline! We recommend consulting with your doctor regarding your specific dietary needs.

      Reply

  4. Afton Jackson

    I loved your example of a healthy Pico De Gallo recipe and listing all the ingredients needed for it. We’ve been planning a get-together party for my high school friends at my new apartment flat and I wanted to get a menu going that involves food from around the world, so healthy appetizers like this might be a great way to start off the feast. I’ll be sure to check out the rest of your recipes and look for any more Mexican Restaurants I can sample from to get a feel of the recipes before I attempt them myself.

    Reply

  5. Prashant sirohi

    You have shared different breakfast recipes for everyone. Different breakfast on different days brings excitement. I like to have these in my breakfast and love to share these with my friends. I am grateful if you have a look at

    Reply

  6. this looks very good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  7. Kanika Behl

    Those are some really healthy and delicious mexican food recipes. I will soon try some for my husband. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

    1. Isabel

      Thank you so much! I’m so glad you’re enjoying them 🙂

      Reply

The BEST Healthy Mexican Food Recipes - Isabel Eats (27)

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The BEST Healthy Mexican Food Recipes - Isabel Eats (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest Mexican food to eat? ›

Other healthier options at a Mexican restaurant could include Tamales, Gazpacho ( a tomato-based soup traditionally served cold), grilled seafood-based dishes, salsa and Picante sauce, soft tacos with chicken or beef, fish tacos, or chile con carne (minus cheese and chips).

What Mexican food is high in protein? ›

Protein. Lean meats are a healthy source of protein commonly found in Mexican foods. Chicken, shrimp, fish, pork, and beef are great sources of protein and can help to increase your energy and help keep your muscles healthy. Skip on the carnitas as they are high in saturated fats.

What are the healthiest Mexican beans? ›

Best: Black or Pinto Beans

In a taco or as a side, black or pinto beans are a healthy pick.

Is Mexican food healthy for weight loss? ›

Mexican food by nature can be a trap for calories, fat, and sodium. The fried tortilla chips, high-fat meats, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, refried beans, and deep-fried combo dishes can really pack on the pounds.

What Mexican meat is the healthiest? ›

The extra protein and fiber will help you feel full. Pass on carnitas (braised or simmered beef or pork) and chorizo (sausage). Instead, opt for a leaner grilled chicken breast, grilled fish, or black or pinto beans.

What is the unhealthiest Mexican food? ›

What Is the Unhealthiest Dish You Can Order at a Mexican Restaurant? The unhealthiest dish you can order at a Mexican restaurant is… the chimichangas. A chimichanga is essentially a deep-fried burrito. It is a Tex-Mex dish made with a large tortilla stuffed with multiple servings of rice, beans, cheese and meat.

What Mexican food is good for weight loss? ›

Mexican foods that are lower in calories typically include options like pollo a la plancha (plate of chicken) and shrimp ceviche (a fresh seafood salad). Chicken or veggie tacos with lean protein and many vegetables are also low-calorie options.

Is homemade Mexican food healthy? ›

A great thing about Mexican cooking is that it already includes many fresh vegetables, herbs, spices and lean proteins, says Beci Falkenberg, a chef at Cancer Wellness at Piedmont. Try her tips to make your favorite Mexican-inspired meals healthier.

What Mexican food is heart healthy? ›

What Mexican food is heart-healthy? Opt for lean protein. Choosing chicken, shrimp, beans, and even leaner cuts of steak will reduce the unhealthy fats you'll find in the richer pork, stewed beef and fried items. Go for low-fat dairy.

What beans do Mexicans eat the most? ›

Pinto beans are one of the most common types of beans and considered to be one of the most popular for northwestern Mexico and the United States. In fact, its scientific name, Phaseolus vulgaris, literally means “common bean.”

Are tamales healthy? ›

Tamales are rich in certain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They're generally a good source of vitamin B3 (niacin) since the nixtamalization process enhances niacin's bioavailability—the amount of niacin that can be absorbed by our bodies—, per a 2016 study.

How do Mexicans eat healthy? ›

Beans: Mexican food makes heavy use of beans, which may lower the risk of heart disease (4). Beans are also rich in protein and iron, making them an all-around healthy choice. Vegetables add flavor: Mexican food is rich in vegetables, particularly squash, tomato, chile peppers, and avocado.

What is a good Mexican dish? ›

In this article, we'll be sharing 20 of the best Mexican foods that you absolutely must try.
  • Tacos al pastor. These tacos are made with marinated pork that is cooked on a spit and then sliced thin. ...
  • Enchiladas. ...
  • Tamales. ...
  • Chiles rellenos. ...
  • Pozole. ...
  • Guacamole. ...
  • Sopaipillas. ...
  • Tortas.
Jan 29, 2023

Are fajitas healthy? ›

A great way to eat healthily at a Mexican restaurant is to choose grilled foods. Instead of ordering a chimichanga or taquito, opt for steak, chicken or shrimp fajitas. Fajitas are much healthier than fried items but are just as filling; they taste even better when flavored with peppers and onions.

Is there such a thing as healthy Mexican food? ›

Grilled seafood, lean meat and poultry are good sources of protein, vitamins and minerals. “There are definitely lots of healthy Mexican food options when eating out at Mexican restaurants,” says Dr. Ochoa.

What Mexican food can I eat to lose weight? ›

Plus, don't miss our 22 Meals to Melt Belly Fat in 2022.
  • Steak Nachos.
  • Crispy Chipotle Shrimp Quesadilla.
  • Beef Tacos.
  • Sweet Potato and Spicy Chorizo Tacos.
  • Vegetarian Black Bean Omelet.
  • Fish Taco Bowls.
  • Crock-Pot Vegetarian Chili.
  • Plant-Based Breakfast Burrito.
Mar 29, 2022

What Mexican food is good for your stomach? ›

Aids Healthy Digestion

A lot of Mexican dishes contain corn and beans. They are both rich in soluble fiber that keeps you feeling full and helps food to move through your digestive tract more quickly for healthy elimination. Apart from that, it also helps lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels.

What are the healthiest Mexican tacos? ›

Tacos de Canasta

If you are looking for healthy tacos, this could be the one. It is prepared by steaming, filled with healthy and simple ingredients like potatoes and beans. Sometimes, they can be incredibly greasy. Hence, their other name is sweaty tacos.

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