Can Mexican Food Be Healthy
What do you think of when you hear the phrase “eating healthy”? Most likely, it’s plain salads and smoothies that taste like grass! But did you know that eating healthy can still mean eating delicious food?
Whether dieting or simply trying to improve your eating habits, going to a Mexican restaurant can feel like a challenge. This guide can help you make balanced, nutritious choices when you take the important step of improving your overall health.
Are Burritos Healthy to Eat?
Like most meals, a burrito can be as healthy or unhealthy as you want; it depends on what ingredients you include and what you’re avoiding. If you’re trying to eat fewer carbs, a burrito bowl can be a better choice than a traditional burrito – and easier to take home if you want to cut back on portion sizes.
Whether you opt for a traditional burrito or a burrito bowl, picking toppings that are balanced in fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates can make a huge difference. A burrito doesn’t have to be a “guilty pleasure” if you pick the right ingredients. Keep reading to learn some guidelines for eating healthier at a Mexican restaurant.
Best Thing to Eat at a Mexican Restaurant on a Diet
Almost every ingredient and dish has some nutritional value, but balance is critical. Pick items that are high in protein, low in saturated fat, and low in sugar. A build-your-own restaurant like Burrachos will give you the most control over your meal.
Remember that the best foods for you to eat or avoid are specific to your individual health needs, so always consult your doctor and the nutrition information of what you’re eating if you’re unsure!
Here are a few general tips for eating healthy at a Mexican restaurant:
1. Go for grilled, not fried
Grilled meats and vegetables tend to be healthier, with less oil and lower calories due to not being breaded.
2. Pile on the veggies
Vegetables, especially fresh vegetables, are a great choice. They tend to have healthy fats, loads of vitamins, and fiber.
3. Say yes to beans
Many ingredients in Mexican food are high in protein and healthy fats, and beans are no exception! Beans, especially black beans, are rich in fiber, protein, iron, potassium, and more.
4. Light on the queso and sour cream
Cheese is life, and sour cream adds a perfect creaminess to your spicy burrito. Plus, dairy has essential nutrients that can be part of a balanced diet. However, cheese and sour cream are less nutrient-dense than some other toppings, and they add a lot of calories per serving, so it can be beneficial to go light on these toppings.
5. Meatless Mondays can be your friend
No matter what day of the week, eating a few meatless meals and prioritizing fresh vegetables can be a great way to branch out and add diversity to your diet. Swap the steak for vegetables or even guacamole, which is loaded with monounsaturated fats that are a more heart-healthy option.
6. Don’t forget the salsa
Salsa is a low-calorie, high-flavor addition to your meal and is typically full of colorful veggies. Plus, some studies suggest that spicy food can benefit you, so don’t be afraid to dial up the heat if you can handle it.
Healthy Mexican Food Ideas
So now we’ve covered a few tips on how to eat healthier at a Mexican restaurant, but what dishes do those include?
Burritos
When you customize your burrito, you can keep it healthy! Try your burrito with grilled meat or veggies and guacamole, your favorite salsa, rice, and beans.
Burrito bowls
Do you want to cut carbs? Skip the tortilla altogether with a burrito bowl. Consider adding grilled chicken, brown rice for extra fiber, guacamole for healthy fat, salsa for extra vegetables and flavor, and lettuce for a healthy crunch. Opt for light shredded cheese instead of queso.
Tacos
You read that right – being on a diet doesn’t mean skipping tacos! Opt for tacos with black beans, vegetables, salsa, and rice for a more balanced meal.
Salads
Salads don’t have to be sad. Pick a hearty protein, vegetables, and salsa for a veggie-focused option that still has a kick.
Burrachos Has the Healthier Mexican Food You Crave!
Wondering where you can find healthier Mexican food options near you? If you're in the Eau Claire, Onalaska, or Sun Prairie area, head to Burrachos. We have tons of high-protein toppings you can add to your burrito and even offer burrito bowls and salads if you want to skip the tortilla! Start your order online!