Authentic Mexican Cuisine You Can Enjoy Without Loading Up On Calories

Sometimes, all you want is a delicious meal that won't make you regret your dietary choices. Thankfully, there are plenty of healthy Mexican dishes out there that provide the same flavor and authenticity as their less diet-friendly counterparts.

Here are just a few to look for the next time you take a trip to a Mexican restaurant.

Tostadas

Tostadas are a diner favorite, and they can easily be made healthy. A traditional tostada is a flat, crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, shredded lettuce and cheese, chopped tomatoes, other vegetables, and proteins like chicken or beef. They are then typically dressed in sour cream and guacamole.

Tostadas are not only delicious but also nutritionally beneficial. The tortilla provides whole-grain carbohydrates, and the toppings provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Proteins from chicken or beef add essential amino acids, which can help aid muscle development.

To make your tostadas even healthier, you could opt for a corn tortilla over a flour one, as it has more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You could also swap out some of the ingredients, such as the cheese, refried beans, and sour cream, for more nutritious alternatives like black beans, avocado slices, or Greek yogurt. In doing so, you will create a tasty meal that is both high in nutrients and low in calories!

Chile Relleno 

Chile relleno is a beloved Mexican dish that can be served as an appetizer, entree, or even a side dish. It consists of a roasted poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, vegetables, and proteins such as beef, pork, or chicken. The pepper is then typically lightly battered and fried before being served.

Chile relleno can make for a delicious, healthy dish when prepared correctly. Poblano peppers are rich in vitamins that help to keep your skin and bones strong. Additionally, their high fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer, so you're less likely to snack on unhealthy foods throughout the day.

If you want your chile relleno to be even healthier, you could opt for a non-fried version. You could ask the chef to lightly roast the pepper instead and fill it with nutritious ingredients like roasted vegetables, quinoa, and lean proteins. This will ensure that your dish is low in unhealthy fats and high in essential nutrients.

Finally, you can top off your chile relleno with a delicious yet light sauce, and you have a meal that is both flavorful and healthy!

For more information about Mexican food, visit a local restaurant.