If you’re unfamiliar with the difference between a chimichanga and an enchilada, it can be difficult to identify the healthier options on a Mexican restaurant menu. What you need to know to make the best choice is as follows.
5 Dishes You Should Avoid
Additionally, tortilla chips
Complimentary chips and salsa are typically brought to the table as soon as you sit, and whether you like it or not, they are nearly bottomless. When the first basket is completely empty, take a step back; you’ll need those calories for the remainder of your meal.
Cheesy
This liquid cheese sauce is anything but light. Additionally, a thinner consistency requires you to dip twice as many chips. Maintain a healthy balance of salsa, guacamole, and fresh pico de gallo.
Frites Entrees
Chili rellenos, chalupas, chimichangas, gorditas, tostadas, and taquitos are all examples of deep-fried main courses. Tostadas (open-faced tacos) and rellenos (poblano peppers) are the best of these options. It’s easier to order one of the non-fried dishes (see below) than to request that the kitchen prepare a dish differently.
Tortilla Shells Fried
A deep-fried vessel is not a healthy way to begin a salad; omit it and opt for a leafy green-based salad. If you’re cooking at home, give our brilliant taco salad a try (crispy shell included). If you’re in the mood for something sweet, ask for ice cream without the fried shell or sopapilla (a fried tortilla drizzled with honey).
Additional toppings
A simple way to cut calories and fat is to eliminate unnecessary toppings, such as generous dollops of sour cream and guacamole or a second layer of melted cheese. Pico de gallo works well in place of any of these toppings.
5 To-Order Dishes
Chicken fajitas
Grilled meats and vegetables are always a good choice for a healthy meal. Fajitas are typically served on a sizzling platter with all the trimmings on the side, allowing you to build your own (with a more balanced ratio of vegetables to meat and toppings) and save the remainder for later.
Main courses that are not fried
No fried enchiladas, burritos, tamales, or soft-shell tacos. If possible, choose corn tortillas over flour tortillas.
Salads
Certain combinations include a simple salad (usually shredded iceberg lettuce with tomatoes and guacamole). If it isn’t included, you can add one from the side menu or request it from your server.
Soup with Tortillas or Posole
Soup is not typically associated with your neighborhood Mexican restaurant, but it should be. Both tortilla soup and posole are low in calories and opulent in flavor. Instead of chips and dip, order a cup as an appetizer.
Steak with black beans and pico de gallo
These three items are healthier alternatives to ground beef, refried beans, and more substantial salad dressings or dips. Wherever possible, make these substitutions.
A remark on margaritas:
It is unclear whether margaritas served on the rocks are a healthier alternative to frozen margaritas (the latter might go down easier, but they are otherwise the same). The majority of restaurants will use a mix that contains a significant amount of sugar. Order on the rocks if you prefer a lighter mix, or simply request tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.