41 Low-Calorie Mexican Food Recipes To Cook in 2025
Eating healthy doesn’t mean settling for boring meals when low-calorie Mexican food delivers all the flavor. If you’ve ever tried to eat a little healthier only to miss the comfort of your favorite dishes, you know the struggle.
Most so-called “light” meals fall flat because they don’t have much taste and are impossible to stick with. However, when it comes to Mexican food, it's easy to cook up flavor-packed recipes that are high on taste but low on calories. All you have to do is make a few smart ingredient swaps.
To help you discover the tastiest and lowest-calorie Mexican food around, we've created a detailed guide packed with our favorite dishes. These low-calorie Mexican food recipes allow you to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors you're craving without consuming an excess of calories. Think tender meats, smoky peppers, tangy lime, fresh cilantro and just the right kick of heat, all without the calorie overload.
So, let's jump into this guide to 41 low-calorie Mexican food recipes where you’ll find meals that feel indulgent, taste authentic and actually support your healthy eating goals.
- 41 Delicious Low-Calorie Mexican Food Recipes
- How We Chose the Best Low-Calorie Mexican Food
- Learn To Cook Low-Calorie Mexican Food
41 Delicious Low-Calorie Mexican Food Recipes
Each of these low-calorie Mexican dishes was created with lighter eating in mind, using modest portion sizes and carefully selected ingredients.
While not every dish meets the official FDA or EU standards for “low-calorie” labeling, most fall under 350 calories per serving, with nothing exceeding 500 calories per serving. This makes them a practical option for those focused on lower-calorie meal planning.
Where available, nutrition info is included and was reviewed for overall balance. To keep Mexican dishes low-calorie, opt for grilling over frying, use lean proteins and swap rice for cauliflower rice.
For reference, see the FDA's Nutrition Facts label, which guided these choices.
1. Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
This light and zesty side dish swaps traditional white rice for cauliflower, making cilantro lime cauliflower rice a perfect fit for any low-calorie Mexican food plan.
Sautéed with onion, garlic and a splash of vegetable broth, then finished with lime juice and fresh cilantro, it delivers big flavor with minimal calories. It’s a simple, satisfying way to enjoy the essence of low-calorie Mexican dishes without the carb overload often found in heavier sides.
- Calories: 79
- Total Fat: 3.8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10.8 grams
- Protein: 3.1 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
2. Roasted Poblano Peppers
With just two ingredients and a bold, smoky flavor, making roasted poblano peppers is a simple way to elevate any low-calorie Mexican food spread.
The peppers are roasted until perfectly blistered, then steamed and peeled for a soft, rich texture that pairs well with tacos, bowls or salads. This low-cal Mexican dish is an easy go-to for anyone craving cheap and healthy meals with a little bit of heat.
- Calories: 23
- Total Fat: 0.1 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5.4 grams
- Protein: 1.1 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
3. Cod Fish Tacos
Light, flaky and full of flavor, cod fish tacos bring together marinated cod — one of the healthiest fish to eat — with cabbage slaw and a drizzle of Sriracha crema for a lively spin on low-calorie Mexican food.
Wrapped in corn tortillas and topped with avocado and lime, this dish is a great option for those learning how to start eating healthy, as it doesn't sacrifice bold flavor.
- Calories: 463
- Total Fat: 23.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 32.4 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
4. Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos
Looking for a bold way to shake up taco night? Buffalo cauliflower tacos offer a flavorful, plant-based twist that’s both crisp and satisfying. The cauliflower is tossed with garlic, onion and your favorite type of hot sauce, then lightly fried and layered with avocado, cabbage and regular or vegan sour cream.
It’s a vibrant take on low-calorie Mexican food and a fresh addition to your list of flavorful Mexican dinner ideas that even those not counting calories will enjoy.
- Calories: 231
- Total Fat: 14.4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 23.8 grams
- Protein: 5.5 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
5. Ranch Water
Ranch water is a light and refreshing cocktail made with blanco tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice and chilled sparkling mineral water poured over crushed ice. It’s a no-fuss drink that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or spicy salsas. As part of your low-calorie Mexican food spread, this cocktail delivers full flavor with minimal ingredients and under 100 calories per glass.
- Calories: 74
- Total Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3.1 grams
- Protein: 0.2 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
6. Tomatillo Red Chili Salsa
Bright citrus, smoky peppers and fresh herbs come together in tomatillo red chili salsa to deliver a bold hit of flavor in every spoonful. Made with tomatillos, ancho and guajillo peppers, cilantro and lime, it’s a vibrant and versatile dip or topping that fits seamlessly into any low-calorie Mexican food spread.
Spoon it over grilled meats, garnish tacos with it, or pair it with chips for a flavorful sauce made for enhancing all your favorite meals.
- Calories: 44
- Total Fat: 0.9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9.8 grams
- Protein: 1.5 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
7. Chilaquiles Rojos
Warm, crispy tortillas simmered in rich tomato chili sauce make chilaquiles rojos a crave-worthy start to any day. This delightful breakfast food idea blends roasted salsa, jalapeños, heirloom tomatoes and lime with pan-fried tortilla wedges for a bold yet balanced bite.
Served with beans, eggs and guacamole, it brings the full flavor of low-calorie Mexican food to the table without feeling heavy.
- Calories: 339
- Total Fat: 16.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45.7 grams
- Protein: 6.4 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? No
8. Vegan Tacos
Those who avoid meat or dairy don't have to miss out on low-calorie Mexican food with this recipe for vegan tacos. Featuring 'meat' made from mushrooms, these tacos also include a range of spices, plus a flavorful chipotle sauce and pickled onions and jalapeños for added texture, flavor and heat.
Despite not including animal protein, these tacos still offer a craveable bite that even the meat eaters may want a taste of!
- Calories: 390
- Total Fat: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25.5 grams
- Protein: 10.2 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
9. Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Smoky grilled shrimp, chipotle sour cream and crisp cabbage come together in grilled shrimp tacos for a light yet flavorful take on low-calorie Mexican food. The shrimp are dry-brined with spices, seared to perfection, then tucked into corn tortillas with fresh toppings.
Each bite is bold and bright, making it a standout among low-calorie Mexican food favorites for those who want light and flavorful eats.
- Calories: 216
- Total Fat: 9.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9.3 grams
- Protein: 24.3 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
10. Beef Taco
If low-calorie Mexican food makes you think of bland shortcuts, this beef taco recipe will change your mind. With lean ground beef, garlic, bell peppers and a splash of lime, every bite is packed with flavor and just the right amount of heat. It’s a quick, satisfying dinner that proves low-calorie Mexican food can still feel like a treat.
- Calories: 336
- Total Fat: 19 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25.8 grams
- Protein: 16.4 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
11. Vegetarian Fajitas
Skip the meat and still steal the show with vegetarian fajitas. This veggie-forward dish features portobello mushrooms, bell peppers and red onion sautéed in smoky spices, then topped with fresh guacamole and cilantro.
Wrapped in a warm tortilla, every bite brings bold flavor and satisfying texture, making it a great choice for anyone craving low-calorie Mexican food with plenty of color and kick.
- Calories: 257
- Total Fat: 18.9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 23.2 grams
- Protein: 5.2 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
12. Salsa Roja
Roasted tomatoes, charred jalapeños and rehydrated guajillo peppers give salsa roja its signature smoky depth and bold flavor. Blended with garlic, lime and cilantro and then simmered until thick, this chunky salsa skips the filler and keeps every ingredient fresh. With just 35 calories per serving, it’s the kind of low-calorie Mexican food you’ll want to spoon over everything.
- Calories: 35
- Total Fat: 0.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9.1 grams
- Protein: 1.3 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
13. Baked Beef Tacos
Low-calorie Mexican food doesn’t have to mean skipping the classics. Baked beef tacos bring all the flavor with lean ground beef, refried beans, spicy tomatoes and a blend of Mexican cheese tucked into crispy shells and finished in the oven.
Every bite delivers warmth, crunch and comfort while keeping portions in check and keeping your goals on track. However, the combo of cheese, refried beans and seasoned shells can push up sodium and saturated fat, so opt for low-sodium beans and reduced-fat cheese.
- Calories: 277
- Total Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 17 grams
- Protein: 17 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
14. Naked Fish Tacos
Naked fish tacos let bold flavors shine without the tortilla. This low-calorie Mexican recipe features tender pan-seared tilapia, crisp slaw tossed in lime and cumin and creamy avocado on top.
By ditching the tortilla and focusing on lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish fits easily into a low-calorie Mexican food plan while still feeling fresh, satisfying and full of texture. It’s a delicious option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for simplicity.
- Calories: 293
- Total Fat: 16 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Protein: 33 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
15. Grilled Onion and Skirt Steak Tacos
Serving up skirt steak tacos with grilled onions is a delicious way to enjoy low-calorie Mexican food while still getting the bold flavor.
The beef is marinated in lime juice and beer (if desired), then grilled until tender and paired with sweet onions inside corn tortillas. It's a great high-protein, low-calorie Mexican food that skips the extras but never feels lacking in taste.
- Calories: 288
- Total Fat: 14 grams
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
- Protein: 31 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
16. Chickpea and Chipotle Tostadas
Low-calorie Mexican food meets weeknight convenience with these baked tostadas topped with smoky chipotle chickpeas, mashed avocado, shredded lettuce and fresh pico de gallo. Roasted in the oven instead of fried, the crispy shells stay light while still delivering crunch.
Chipotle adds depth without extra fat, and the chickpeas offer plant-based protein and fiber in every bite. Rinse chickpeas and use low-sodium varieties to keep these tostadas light and heart-friendly.
- Calories: 347
- Total Fat: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 59 grams
- Protein: 12 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
17. Stovetop Chili
If you're looking for a recipe that's low in calories, high in taste and easy to whip up, this Tex-Mex classic is for you. Packed with extra-lean ground beef or ground turkey, multiple types of chiles, and two types of protein-rich beans, stovetop chili brings comfort and flavor to your low-calorie Mexican food lineup.
- Calories: 375
- Total Fat: 18.4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Protein: 20.3 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
18. Chile Verde Pork
Chile verde pork simmers low and slow until the meat is fall-apart tender, soaking up the heat and tang of salsa verde and green chiles. This low-calorie Mexican dish keeps it light by skipping heavy sides and spotlighting lean protein.
Bold spices and a rich tomatillo-based sauce make every spoonful satisfying. To keep sodium and saturated fat in check, opt for reduced-sodium jarred salsa and trim visible fat from the pork shoulder before cooking.
- Calories: 349
- Total Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Protein: 34 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
19. Southwest Flank Steak
Southwest flank steak delivers smoky heat and bold flavor in every bite thanks to a dry rub made with cumin, chili powder and cayenne. As one of our favorite low-calorie Mexican food options, we like that it skips sugary marinades and leans on lean beef and spices.
Focusing on spices and the natural flavor of the meat packs flavor into a low-carb, low-calorie Mexican meal that cooks in under 30 minutes. Note that flank steak can carry 4 grams or more of saturated fat per serving, so pair it with a vegetable-heavy side and limit added oils.
- Calories: 219
- Total Fat: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Protein: 23 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
20. Chicken and Spanish Cauliflower Rice
A smart swap for heavier rice dishes, this zesty skillet meal features chicken and Spanish cauliflower rice in a fresh and flavorful way. This low-calorie Mexican food recipe combines lean chicken and cauliflower rice with bell peppers and a splash of lime for a vibrant, satisfying bite that keeps your energy high and cravings low.
- Calories: 227
- Total Fat: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Protein: 28 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
21. Slow Cooker Carnitas
Slow cooker carnitas turn a humble pork shoulder into something deeply savory and comforting. Instead of frying in lard, the meat simmers low and slow in seasoned broth until it's tender enough to shred and crisp up in the oven.
This captures the essence of low-calorie Mexican food while keeping things lighter and just as craveable as dishes higher in calories. Just remember that pork shoulder and broth concentrate add saturated fat and sodium, so use trimmed pork loin and low-sodium broth to balance the plate.
- Calories: 223
- Total Fat: 14 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 22 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
22. Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
Another low-calorie Mexican meal that makes use of the slow cooker, this chicken mole combines tender chicken with a thick, complex sauce made from cocoa powder, crushed tomatoes, chipotle pepper and peanut butter.
This slow-cooked classic delivers deep warmth and authentic Mexican flavor. What we also like is that, along with being a low-calorie Mexican food, it's also decently high in protein and has minimal added fat.
- Calories: 289
- Total Fat: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams
- Protein: 28 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
23. Skinny Margaritas
Nothing beats a good margarita when the craving hits, and skinny margaritas deliver all the bold, zesty flavor of your favorite cocktail while keeping it light.
This refreshing spin on low-calorie Mexican food uses fresh lime juice, a splash of orange juice, smooth tequila and a touch of agave for the perfect balance of citrus and sweetness.
- Calories: 164
- Total Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
24. Black Beans With Bell Peppers and Rice
You don’t need a meat-heavy meal to enjoy bold, savory flavor. Low-sodium black beans with bell peppers and rice deliver on all fronts with sautéed tricolor peppers, cumin-spiced black beans, fluffy brown rice and gooey melted cheese (you can also use vegan cheese or omit it), all in one skillet.
As a flavorful and satisfying option for low-calorie Mexican food, it’s a go-to for anyone craving warmth and richness from a plant-forward plate.
- Calories: 347
- Total Fat: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? Yes
Vegan Friendly? Yes
25. Lime Chicken With Salsa Verde Sour Cream
Bright citrus and bold spices come together in lime chicken with salsa verde sour cream for a quick, flavorful upgrade to classic baked chicken.
Juicy broiled thighs are paired with a light sour cream sauce mixed with salsa verde, lime juice and cilantro. It’s a refreshing take on low-calorie Mexican food that delivers on both taste and simplicity.
- Calories: 199
- Total Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Protein: 23 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
26. Lime-Cilantro Tilapia
Lime-cilantro tilapia delivers tons of flavor in a light, refreshing package, making it a smart pick when you're looking for low-calorie Mexican food that's easy to whip up.
Tilapia cooks quickly, absorbs citrus and spice beautifully, and offers 33 grams of lean protein per serving. Plus, the bright sauce of lime, cilantro and cumin adds tang without piling on extra calories or fat.
- Calories: 198
- Total Fat: 5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Protein: 33 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
27. Tex-Mex Tacos
Tex-Mex tacos bring hearty flavors and Tex-Mex flair with lean ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, corn and lettuce all tucked into your choice of soft or crunchy shells.
It’s a great way to enjoy low-calorie Mexican food that still satisfies big cravings. With smart swaps like 90% lean beef and reduced-fat cheese, these tacos keep things balanced while packing in plenty of flavor.
- Calories: 294
- Total Fat: 11 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Protein: 17 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
28. Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
This hearty slow cooker salsa chicken transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, tender dish that’s perfect for weeknights. Packed with boneless chicken, spicy salsa and tomatoes with habaneros, as well as onion, celery and carrot, it delivers a big flavor with minimal prep.
This is one of the healthiest picks for anyone craving low-calorie Mexican food that works in tacos, bowls or on its own.
- Calories: 148
- Total Fat: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Protein: 23 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
29. Slow Cooker Pozole
A comfort classic, slow cooker posole blends lean pork sirloin, enchilada sauce, low-sodium hominy, chilies and garlic into a rich, savory stew. Known for its depth and warmth, this traditional dish gets a lighter spin without losing its soul.
As a hearty bowl of low-calorie Mexican food, pozole satisfies cravings while staying lean, especially when topped with fresh lime, cilantro and avocado.
- Calories: 241
- Total Fat: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 26 grams
- Protein: 17 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
30. Southwest Pork Tenderloin
Making Southwest pork tenderloin is a fast, flavorful way to enjoy low-calorie Mexican food without skimping on spice. Each tenderloin is coated in the taco seasoning, roasted until juicy, then finished with a bright splash of lime.
With just a few ingredients and no heavy marinades, it’s a lean, satisfying option for lunch or dinner that balances taste and simplicity. To keep it heart-healthy, the best taco seasoning to use is one that is homemade. Trim any visible fat from the pork as well to reduce the saturated fat content of the dish.
- Calories: 184
- Total Fat: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Protein: 22 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
31. Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas
Salsa Verde chicken enchiladas are a flavorful favorite on our list of low-calorie Mexican food. Made with tender shredded chicken and a zesty tomatillo sauce, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas, they're as easy to whip up as they are tasty.
Topped with reduced-fat cheddar or a small amount of Mexican cheese like cotija, this dish hits the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition with fewer calories than typical enchiladas.
- Calories: 469
- Total Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42 grams
- Protein: 33 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
32. Carne Guisada
Rich, hearty and deeply seasoned, this classic stew slow-simmers pork shoulder or stewing beef with broth, potatoes, onion and spices until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Carne guisada offers comforting flavor in a lighter form, especially when served with brown rice or whole wheat tortillas. To keep calories in check, serve smaller portions and skim excess fat from the pot before ladling.
- Calories: 261
- Total Fat: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 16 grams
- Protein: 21 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
33. Summer Garden Fish Tacos
Summer garden fish tacos feature grilled tilapia topped with a mix of sweet corn, squash, heirloom tomatoes and fresh cilantro. This low-calorie Mexican food recipe keeps things light with lean protein and nutrient-dense vegetables, all tucked into warm taco shells and finished with avocado slices.
- Calories: 278
- Total Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 26 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
34. Enchilada Chicken
Enchilada chicken is a six-ingredient dinner that brings delicious flavor without unnecessary calories. This low-calorie Mexican food recipe includes skillet-seared chicken breasts seasoned with chipotle spice, then topped with enchilada sauce, sharp cheddar and fresh cilantro before being baked. It's simple, satisfying and protein-rich for an easy weeknight win.
- Calories: 265
- Total Fat: 11 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Protein: 38 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
35. Cozumel Red Snapper Veracruz
Flaky white fish shines in Cozumel red snapper Veracruz, a dish layered with tomatoes, onion, olives, jalapeño and capers, all baked in a splash of white wine and olive oil.
This low-calorie Mexican food recipe skips heavy sauces in favor of fresh, tangy toppings that pack flavor without piling on calories. However, olives, capers and added salt can push up sodium, so rinse the briny toppings and season lightly to keep the dish heart-friendly.
- Calories: 285
- Total Fat: 11 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
36. Italian Burritos
Cheesy, saucy and baked until golden, Italian burritos trade traditional Mexican fillings for lean beef, Italian marinara sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan, all wrapped in whole wheat tortillas.
This playful mash-up qualifies as low-calorie Mexican food by keeping portions in check and using lighter ingredients that still deliver comfort-food flavor in every bite.
- Calories: 275
- Total Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 26 grams
- Protein: 18 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
37. Spicy Turkey Roll-Ups
Spicy turkey roll-ups use shredded turkey, jalapeños and taco seasoning slow-cooked in broth for a tender, flavorful filling. Served in warm tortillas, this dish delivers a hit of heat paired with lean protein and minimal fat.
It’s a great example of how leftovers can be turned into low-calorie Mexican food that satisfies without weighing you down.
- Calories: 246
- Total Fat: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
38. Mexican Pintos With Cactus
Mexican pintos with cactus combine smoky bacon, jalapeños, onions and tender nopales with slow-simmered pinto beans for a rich, earthy flavor rooted in traditional comfort food. This high-fiber dish delivers plant-based protein and hearty satisfaction in every bite.
It’s a wholesome, low-calorie option with an authentic Mexican taste. For a lighter, low-calorie Mexican meal, use turkey bacon or skip cured meats to cut sodium and saturated fat.
- Calories: 153
- Total Fat: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
39. Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Chicken
A bright salsa-lime blend gives slow cooker cilantro lime chicken its signature flavor, with juicy chicken thighs cooked low and slow for zesty results. Made with just five ingredients, it's a flavorful pick for fans of low-calorie Mexican food looking to keep meals light yet satisfying.
- Calories: 147
- Total Fat: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5 grams
- Protein: 27 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
40. Mahi Mahi Tacos
The mahi mahi tacos offer a coastal-inspired twist on low-calorie Mexican food. The protein used is fresh, grilled mahi mahi, which is paired with vegetable toppings and a Greek yogurt-based chipotle crema. It's all wrapped inside warm corn tortillas for a delicious plate that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
- Calories: 367
- Total Fat: 12.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 33.3 grams
- Protein: 32.6 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
41. Sausage-Egg Burritos
Sausage-egg burritos turn classic breakfast flavors into a lighter take on low-calorie Mexican food. With lean turkey sausage, egg whites, spinach and fresh tomatoes tucked into whole wheat tortillas, it's the perfect dish to start the day with and fuel your day right.
- Calories: 258
- Total Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 24 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
Vegetarian Friendly? No
Vegan Friendly? No
How We Chose the Best Low-Calorie Mexican Food
To create this guide to the best low-calorie Mexican food, we turned to our experience creating other recipe guides and nutritional content. This content includes articles on low-calorie eating and round-ups of the best Mexican and Tex-Mex recipes, including sides, mains and desserts.
Once we had rounded up our favorite recipes, we narrowed the list down by removing high-calorie dishes, so that only Mexican food under 500 calories per serving remained. Next, we checked that the recipes were otherwise healthy.
This included confirming dishes were:
- Low in saturated fat and relatively low in total fat.
- Decently high in protein.
- Decently high in fiber.
- Not overly high in carbohydrates.
By prioritizing these types of low-fat, low-calorie, high-protein Mexican food recipes, we ensure that you can find the healthiest choices that fit various types of low-calorie diets. However, we also included a few additional dishes that are a little lighter in some areas (with a lower amount of protein or fiber, for example), to offer something for all cravings.
You’ll also find that our guide to low-cal Mexican food has a range of meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan options. We additionally included a handy guide for those who avoid meat and dairy to scan to see which of these tasty, low-calorie Mexican dishes they can indulge in.
Lastly, we consulted with Jessica O'Shea, a Registered Nutritionist (ANutr) with the Association for Nutrition. She reviewed the recipes to confirm they are a healthy choice and added extra tips on how to make the dishes even healthier.
Learn To Cook Low-Calorie Mexican Food
To make preparing low-calorie Mexican food even easier, consider taking some cooking classes near you. In these professional chef-led sessions, you'l learn tips and tricks for making low-calorie food full of flavor.
If in-person classes don't work for your schedule, there are also virtual sessions, such as healthy online cooking classes and Mexican online cooking classes.
Mexican cuisine is rich in tradition, and low-calorie Mexican food gives you a way to enjoy the depth of smoky chipotle, the warmth of cumin-laced black beans and the zest of fresh lime layered over slow-grilled meats.
Everyone craves that bite of crispy tostadas, juicy al pastor or charred poblano folded into warm tortillas, but heavy oils and calorie-loaded toppings can make it tough to stay on track.
This list should help you dig into low-calorie Mexican food that’s still bursting with heat and the kind of flavor that lingers long after the last bite.
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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