Mexican cuisine – a flavorful and vibrant culinary tradition that’s perfect for those looking to spice up their diet without sacrificing taste. And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good taco or burrito? But what if you could enjoy these delicious dishes without breaking the calorie bank? Enter our collection of 20 mouthwatering low-calorie Mexican recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and keep you on track with your healthy eating goals.
From hearty stuffed peppers and savory skillet dinners to fresh and zesty salsas, we’ve got you covered with a variety of options that are all under 400 calories per serving. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some lighter takeout-inspired meals, this list has something for everyone. So go ahead, indulge in the bold flavors of Mexico without the guilt – your taste buds (and your diet) will thank you!
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Stuffed Peppers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with these Spicy Black Bean and Corn Stuffed Peppers. This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, combining the sweetness of corn and bell peppers with the heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, jalapeños, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean mixture and place in a baking dish.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini and Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful skillet dish that combines tender chicken, sautéed zucchini, and creamy enchilada sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add zucchini, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Top with shredded cheese and let it melt for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Burrito Bowls
This recipe combines the health benefits of cauliflower rice with the bold flavors of a burrito bowl, minus the tortilla. The result is a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast (or substitute with tofu or veggies)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
3. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add warmed black beans and cooked chicken breast (or substitute); stir to combine.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Skinny Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines succulent shrimp, crunchy veggies, and sweet mango salsa to create a flavorful and refreshing taco dish that’s perfect for a light and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Avocado or sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked shrimp, Mango Salsa, and your choice of toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Poblano Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a roasted poblano pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each roasted poblano pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Low Calorie Chicken Fajita Lettuce Wraps
Get ready to wrap up flavor without sacrificing nutrition! This recipe transforms classic fajitas into a healthier, lettuce-wrapped delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado slices, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, chicken, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook 5-6 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add fajita seasoning and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by placing chicken mixture onto a lettuce leaf, adding optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Avocado with Egg and Salsa
Take your breakfast game to the next level with this creamy, savory, and flavorful dish that combines the best of avocados, eggs, and salsa.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup salsa (mild or spicy, whichever you prefer)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
3. Crack an egg into each avocado half.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and top with salsa.
7. Garnish with optional toppings of your choice (if using).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lime Cilantro Grilled Fish Tacos
Lime Cilantro Grilled Fish Tacos Recipe Summary: This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of lime, cilantro, and grilled fish to create a delicious and healthy taco dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or yellowtail)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– Juice from 2 limes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 taco-sized corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish fillets.
4. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled fish, cilantro-lime mixture, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetarian Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed potatoes, these sweet potatoes are filled with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add cumin and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans, brown rice, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Split sweet potatoes open lengthwise and top with the bean and rice mixture. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Lightened-Up Chicken Tortilla Soup
This recipe puts a healthy twist on classic chicken tortilla soup by using leaner ingredients and reducing the sodium content. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté chicken, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add broth, tomatoes, tortilla strips, cumin, and seasoning blend. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Add a flavorful twist to traditional cauliflower rice with this spicy Mexican-inspired recipe! With its creamy sauce and bold spices, it’s perfect for a quick and delicious side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
2. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Stir in lime juice and Greek yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Spinach Quesadillas
These quesadillas combine the richness of black beans with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, spinach, olive oil, onion, garlic, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low Calorie Beef and Bean Taco Salad
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional taco salads, this recipe combines lean beef, fiber-rich beans, and crunchy veggies with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons reduced-fat ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the cooked black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture, cilantro, and olive oil.
5. Drizzle with reduced-fat ranch dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Pico de Gallo
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this simple and flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly with the vibrant, tangy flavors of pico de gallo. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pico de gallo (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While chicken is cooking, warm pico de gallo by letting it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
5. Serve grilled chicken with warmed pico de gallo spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad with Greek Yogurt
A creamy twist on traditional street corn, this recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the tanginess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the corn kernels and stir until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Skinny Mexican Casserole with Ground Turkey
This flavorful and nutritious casserole is a great way to enjoy the taste of Mexico without breaking the calorie bank. With ground turkey, black beans, and whole wheat tortillas, this recipe makes for a satisfying and healthy dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 6 whole wheat tortillas, cut into quarters
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and cooked black beans to the skillet and stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine enchilada sauce and shredded cheese.
5. Arrange tortilla quarters in a 9×13-inch baking dish, overlapping slightly.
6. Spoon turkey mixture over tortillas, followed by enchilada sauce mixture.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chile Rellenos with Egg Whites
This recipe gives the traditional chile relleno a lighter and healthier spin by using egg whites instead of whole eggs. The result is a deliciously flavorful and creamy dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Anaheim peppers, roasted and seeded
– 1/2 cup egg whites
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together egg whites until frothy.
3. Stuff each pepper with shredded cheese and divide the egg white mixture evenly among the peppers.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Calorie Mexican Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, these zucchini boats are filled with a delicious blend of Mexican-inspired ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the cooked rice, black beans, red bell pepper, yellow onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp with Cauliflower Rice
This recipe combines the brightness of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro with succulent shrimp, all served atop a nutritious cauliflower “rice” base. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s both flavorful and healthy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower
– Optional: 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Cook the shrimp, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve the shrimp atop the cauliflower “rice” with salt and pepper to taste. Optional: add butter or non-stick cooking spray to the cauliflower for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Healthy Mexican Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This flavorful salad combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the creamy texture of black beans, all wrapped up in a vibrant Mexican-inspired package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is also packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins to keep you going.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the black beans, red bell pepper, and cucumber. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the black bean mixture, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 delicious and healthy low-calorie Mexican recipes! From stuffed peppers and enchilada skillets to tacos, soup, and salads, there’s something for everyone. Try Spicy Black Bean and Corn Stuffed Peppers or Zucchini and Chicken Enchilada Skillet for a flavorful twist on classic dishes. Or go light with options like Low Calorie Chicken Fajita Lettuce Wraps or Skinny Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthier take on your favorite Mexican dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy!