7 Ways To Keep From Packing On The Pounds While Dining In Mexican Restaurants

Food & Cooking Blog

Love Mexican food but don't care too much for the high fat and calorie content found in many Mexican foods? Fortunately, many ways exist for diners to enjoy Mexican food without packing on the pounds. Following are just seven of the many ways you can keep fat and calorie content to a minimum while dining on delicious Mexican cuisine. 

Ask for Corn Tortillas 

Ask your server to swap out flour tortillas for those made from corn. Corn tortillas are made from whole grains rather than refined flour, making them a healthier option even without their typical reduced calorie count. They've got more vitamins, minerals, and fiber than their white flour counterparts. You can also ask your server if the restaurant has whole wheat tortillas -- many of them are offering this due to increasing customer demand for healthier options. 

Skip the Chips and Salsa

The first thing to reach your table in many Mexican restaurants is a basket full of chips accompanied by a dish of salsa for dipping. Ask your server not to bring these items. Not only do they add a serious amount of calories to your meal, you may actually enjoy your meal less if you fill up on them prior to the main course. If you're starving and really feel like you need to take the edge off of hunger pangs, have a few sips of water and ask for a tossed green salad. 

Ask For Low-Fat Sour Cream 

Many entrees in U.S. Mexican restaurants are topped off with sour cream. To avoid the calorie overload sour cream provides, ask for low-fat sour cream on the side. You can also try using salsa as a condiment instead or mixing it with the sour cream. Some places may even offer low-fat yogurt as a substitute for sour cream.

Ask for Guacamole 

Guacamole has gotten a bad name among many diners because it's relatively high in fat. However, the main ingredient in guacamole is avocado, which is incredibly nutritious and contains serious amounts of vitamin C, vitamin, potassium, and heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Guacamole also has other healthy ingredients such as tomato, onions, cilantro, and lime. A little guacamole goes a long way, so spoon it on carefully to avoid the calorie crush. 

Order Grilled Fish Tacos

Fish tacos are a healthy alternative to those made with ground beef, but only if they're grilled instead of deep fried. Ask your server to have the chef grill the fish -- most Mexican restaurants are happy to comply with this type of request, and many already offer the grilled option on their menu. If fish isn't your thing, ask for grilled chicken. 

Order White Wine Instead of a Margarita 

If you're in the mood for a festive, refreshing adult beverage with your dinner at a Mexican restaurant, considering ordering a cold glass of white wine instead of a traditional margarita. A slightly sweet white wine is particularly suited to spicy foods, so ask for a recommendation if you aren't sure which white wines on the wine list are on the sweet side. On the other hand, if you're having something like a fish taco with a cilantro-lime sauce, you'll want to pair it with a dry white wine. 

Split a Dessert 

A trip to a fine Mexican restaurant isn't complete without enjoying a traditional dessert, so go ahead and order that flan, churro, or sopapilla -- just split it with your dining companion and cut the calories in half. 

Don't hesitate to ask the culinary professionals at your local Mexican restaurant for more excellent advice on enjoying delicious Mexican cuisine without packing on the pounds. And you could check here to learn about different Mexican food options you'll enjoy no matter your diet.

14 August 2017