41 Nutritionist-Approved Low-Calorie Mexican Food Recipes To Cook in 2025

Eating healthy doesn’t mean settling for boring meals, especially when low-calorie Mexican food can deliver big flavor. If you’ve ever tried to eat a little healthier only to miss the comfort of your favorite dishes, you know the struggle.

Many so-called “light” meals fall flat because they’re bland and hard to stick with. But with Mexican-inspired cooking, it’s often possible to build flavor-packed meals that feel satisfying while keeping calories in check.

The key is a few smart ingredient swaps and portion choices, like leaning on chiles, citrus, herbs and spices for flavor, choosing lean proteins, and going lighter on high-calorie add-ons such as large portions of cheese, crema, fried shells and heavy sauces. 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 are designed to deliver the rich, comforting flavors you’re craving without piling on extra calories. Think tender proteins, smoky peppers, tangy lime, fresh cilantro and just the right kick of heat, with simple tweaks that keep the calorie load reasonable.

Now, let’s jump into this nutritionist-reviewed guide to the best low-calorie Mexican food recipes, where you’ll find meals that feel indulgent, taste authentic and support your healthy eating goals.

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• 41 Delicious Low-Calorie Mexican Food Recipes
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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. Protein, fiber and calorie needs vary by individual, so these dishes are best viewed as lower-calorie options rather than universally “healthy” meals.

While not every dish meets the official FDA or EU standards for “low-calorie” labeling, many 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. To keep calories and sodium lower, use a light hand with crema and choose low-sodium seasoning blends.

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. For a lighter version, bake or air-fry the cauliflower and use a yogurt-based or reduced-fat sour cream alternative.

• 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 bright flavor with minimal ingredients and fewer calories than many cocktails. Keep portions modest, as alcohol still contributes calories without providing nutrients.

• 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, satisfying bite.

Served with beans, eggs and guacamole, it brings the full flavor of low-calorie Mexican food to the table without feeling heavy. Baking the tortillas instead of pan-frying and using a smaller portion of guacamole can help reduce fat and calories.

• 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! Because this dish relies on sauce for richness, portions matter, and using less oil during cooking can help keep calories in check.

• 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. Using less oil for sautéing and serving with extra vegetables instead of additional tortillas can help keep this meal lighter.

• 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 protein-rich, low-calorie Mexican food that skips the extras but never feels lacking in taste. Because skirt steak contains more saturated fat than some cuts, adding vegetables to the plate helps keep the meal more balanced overall.

• 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 lighter overall.

• 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. The dish is packed with extra-lean ground beef or ground turkey, multiple types of chiles and two types of protein-rich beans.

This stovetop chili recipe will bring comfort and flavor to your low-calorie Mexican food lineup. Using no-salt-added beans and limiting packaged seasoning mixes can help control sodium.

• 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’s filling without being heavy.

• 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, with fat levels that stay moderate when portions are kept reasonable.

• 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 bold, zesty flavor with fewer calories than traditional margaritas.

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. Keeping cheese portions small or skipping it altogether helps reduce saturated fat and sodium.

• 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. For a lighter option, swap chicken thighs for breasts or use reduced-fat sour cream.

• 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 lighter 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. Choose low-sodium enchilada sauce and rinse hominy to help manage sodium levels.

• 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. Keeping portions to one enchilada and serving with a vegetable-heavy side helps keep the meal in a lower-calorie range.

• 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 fits into this low-calorie Mexican food roundup 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 provide a filling, protein-forward breakfast option.

• 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 drew on our experience producing recipe roundups and nutrition-focused content. This includes articles on lower-calorie eating as well as curated collections of Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, from sides and mains to sauces and drinks.

We started by gathering a wide range of recipes, then narrowed the list by removing higher-calorie options so that every dish comes in under 500 calories per serving. This threshold allowed room for variety while still supporting lower-calorie meal planning. From there, we reviewed each recipe for overall nutritional balance rather than relying on a single definition of “healthy.”

Our review focused on whether dishes generally:

• Keep saturated fat and total fat at moderate levels.
• Provide a meaningful amount of protein when appropriate for the dish.
• Include fiber-rich ingredients such as vegetables, beans or whole grains when possible.
• Maintain reasonable portion sizes across carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

By prioritizing these factors, we aimed to highlight low-calorie Mexican food recipes that can fit into a range of lower-calorie eating patterns without sacrificing flavor. We also intentionally included some dishes that are lighter in certain areas but not others, such as recipes lower in protein, higher in carbohydrates or designed more for enjoyment than everyday meals, including cocktails and comfort-style options.

This guide to low-calorie Mexican food includes meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan recipes, making it easier to find options that suit different preferences. We also added clear indicators to help readers quickly identify dishes that avoid meat or dairy.

Lastly, we consulted with Jessica O’Shea, a registered nutritionist (ANutr) with the Association for Nutrition. She reviewed the recipes for overall balance and provided practical tips on how to reduce sodium, saturated fat or added calories where appropriate, helping readers tailor these dishes to their own health goals.

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'll 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.