15 Tasty Mexican Food Under 500 Calories​​​​

Mexican Food Under 500 Calories​​​​ is not only possible, it’s delicious and satisfying too. Love bold flavors but watching your calorie intake? You don’t have to sacrifice taste to eat healthier—especially when it comes to Mexican cuisine. With its vibrant ingredients, colorful vegetables, lean proteins, and zesty spices, traditional Mexican food can be both indulgent and nourishing. From zesty tacos and hearty soups to fresh salads and flavorful bowls, this article brings you 15 tasty Mexican dishes that all stay under 500 calories. Whether you’re meal prepping or craving a guilt-free fiesta, there’s something here for every health-conscious food lover.

Mexican Food Under 500 Calories​​​​

1. Chicken Street Tacos

Description:
These classic Chicken Street Tacos are simple, flavorful, and perfectly portioned for a healthy meal under 500 calories. Made with grilled, marinated chicken, fresh toppings, and soft corn tortillas, they’re light yet incredibly satisfying. Ideal for lunch or dinner, they deliver authentic Mexican taste without the extra calories.

Ingredients (for 2 tacos):

• 4 oz grilled chicken breast, chopped

• 2 small corn tortillas

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup shredded lettuce

• 2 tbsp diced onions

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• Optional: 1 tsp hot sauce or salsa

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tacos):

• Calories: ~350

• Protein: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 2g

Healthy, fast, and full of flavor—these tacos are a perfect way to enjoy a Mexican favorite while staying on track with your goals.

2. Grilled Shrimp Ceviche

Description:
Grilled Shrimp Ceviche is a light, refreshing Mexican dish packed with bold citrus flavor and fresh vegetables. By grilling the shrimp instead of boiling, you add a smoky depth to this zesty appetizer or light meal. It’s high in protein, low in calories, and perfect for hot days or healthy snacking.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 4 oz grilled shrimp, chopped

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup chopped cucumber

• 1/4 avocado, diced (optional for healthy fats)

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 1 tsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tsp minced jalapeño for a spicy kick

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~200

• Protein: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 8g

• Fat: 8g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 2g

Light, tangy, and incredibly satisfying, this dish delivers all the coastal Mexican flavor without weighing you down.

3. Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Black Beans and Corn

Description:
Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Black Beans and Corn are a hearty, wholesome Mexican-inspired dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients. These colorful bell peppers are loaded with a savory mix of black beans, sweet corn, brown rice, and spices—making them a satisfying meatless option under 500 calories.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 1 large bell pepper, halved and deseeded

• 1/3 cup cooked brown rice

• 1/4 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 2 tbsp diced tomatoes

• 1 tbsp chopped red onion

• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1/4 tsp cumin

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tbsp shredded reduced-fat cheese

Nutritional Information (per serving – 1 stuffed pepper half):

• Calories: ~400

• Protein: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 9g

• Sugar: 6g

Packed with plant-based goodness and bold Mexican flavors, these stuffed peppers are a filling and colorful way to stay full without going over your calorie goals.

4. Chicken Fajita Lettuce Wraps

Description:
Chicken Fajita Lettuce Wraps are a low-carb, low-calorie twist on a Tex-Mex classic. Swapping tortillas for crisp lettuce keeps things fresh and light, while seasoned grilled chicken and sautéed peppers deliver all the smoky, savory flavor you love in a fajita—without the guilt.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 4 oz grilled chicken breast, sliced

• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, green)

• 1/4 cup sliced onions

• 3 large romaine or butter lettuce leaves

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/8 tsp garlic powder

• Squeeze of fresh lime

• Optional: 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or avocado slices

Nutritional Information (per serving – 3 lettuce wraps):

• Calories: ~300

• Protein: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fat: 15g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 4g

These wraps are a perfect example of how you can enjoy bold, sizzling fajita flavors while keeping your meal light, fresh, and under 500 calories. Great for a quick lunch or dinner!

5. Zucchini Enchilada Boats

Description:
Zucchini Enchilada Boats are a creative, low-carb way to enjoy all the cheesy, saucy goodness of traditional enchiladas—without the tortillas. Hollowed-out zucchini halves are filled with a savory blend of shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and spices, then baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and scooped out

• 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken breast

• 1/4 cup enchilada sauce (red or green)

• 2 tbsp chopped onions

• 1 tbsp chopped bell peppers

• 2 tbsp shredded reduced-fat cheese

• 1/4 tsp cumin

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt for topping

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 zucchini boats):

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 25g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 7g

These enchilada boats are warm, comforting, and full of flavor—making them a guilt-free way to satisfy your Mexican food cravings while staying under your calorie goal.

6. Spicy Black Bean Soup

Description:
Spicy Black Bean Soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings deep Mexican flavor with minimal calories. Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, this soup features black beans simmered with aromatic spices, veggies, and a touch of heat. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

• 2 tbsp chopped onions

• 1 tbsp chopped green chilies (or jalapeños for more heat)

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/4 tsp cumin

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• 1/8 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, lime wedge, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt

Instructions:
Sauté onions and garlic in a splash of olive oil or broth, add remaining ingredients, and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Blend half the soup for a thicker texture, then mix it back in.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~250

• Protein: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 6g

• Fiber: 10g

• Sugar: 3g

This spicy black bean soup is flavorful, filling, and perfect for anyone looking for a cozy, low-calorie meal with a Mexican kick.

7. Grilled Fish Tacos with Pico de Gallo

Description:
Grilled Fish Tacos with Pico de Gallo are a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy Mexican food under 500 calories. Light, flaky fish is marinated with spices and grilled to perfection, then tucked into soft corn tortillas and topped with a vibrant, zesty pico de gallo. It’s a beachy bite of Baja in every taco!

Ingredients (serves 1 – 2 tacos):

• 4 oz white fish (like tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi)

• 2 small corn tortillas

• 1/4 tsp cumin

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp olive oil or cooking spray

• Juice of 1/2 lime

For the Pico de Gallo:

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp diced red onion

• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1 tsp lime juice

• Salt to taste

• Optional: diced jalapeño for heat

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tacos):

• Calories: ~380

• Protein: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 16g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

These tacos are a perfect mix of savory, tangy, and fresh—ideal for a light summer meal or a healthy Taco Tuesday treat.

8. Mexican Quinoa Salad

Description:
Mexican Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that combines protein-rich quinoa with a medley of fresh veggies, black beans, and zesty lime dressing. This salad is not only low in calories but also high in fiber, making it a filling and healthy option for lunch or dinner. It’s a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of Mexico in a lighter form.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa

• 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1/4 cup diced cherry tomatoes

• 1/4 cup diced cucumber

• 2 tbsp chopped red onion

• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/4 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1/4 avocado, diced

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~400

• Protein: 13g

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 9g

• Sugar: 6g

This colorful salad is bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a perfect side dish or a light, wholesome main.

9. Mini Chicken Tostadas on Baked Tortillas

Description:
Mini Chicken Tostadas on Baked Tortillas are a crunchy, guilt-free twist on a classic Mexican favorite. Instead of frying the tortillas, they’re baked to crisp perfection, making this dish lower in fat but just as satisfying. Topped with seasoned shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light drizzle of salsa or Greek yogurt, these mini tostadas are perfect for a flavorful snack or appetizer under 500 calories.

Ingredients (serves 1 – 3 mini tostadas):

• 2 small corn tortillas

• 4 oz cooked, shredded chicken breast

• 1 tbsp salsa (or homemade pico de gallo)

• 2 tbsp diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp shredded lettuce

• 1 tbsp diced red onion

• 1 tbsp low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp chopped cilantro

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• Lime wedge for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tortillas into halves or quarters and bake for 10–12 minutes until crisp.

2. Top each baked tortilla with shredded chicken, a dollop of salsa, diced tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Nutritional Information (per serving – 3 mini tostadas):

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 16g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 4g

These crispy, crunchy tostadas offer a satisfying bite of Mexican flavors without the extra calories.

10. Turkey Taco Lettuce Cups

Description:
Turkey Taco Lettuce Cups are a healthier take on traditional tacos, offering the same bold, savory flavors in a low-calorie, low-carb form. Lean ground turkey is seasoned with taco spices and served in crisp lettuce leaves instead of tortillas, making them a great option for a light lunch or dinner that won’t derail your calorie goals.

Ingredients (serves 1 – 3 lettuce cups):

• 4 oz ground turkey (lean, 93% or higher)

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup diced onions

• 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or homemade blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder)

• 1/4 cup shredded lettuce

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 3 large romaine lettuce leaves (for cups)

• Optional: 1 tbsp reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping

• Optional: 1/4 avocado, sliced

Nutritional Information (per serving – 3 lettuce cups):

• Calories: ~380

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 4g

These turkey taco lettuce cups are bursting with flavor, protein, and fiber—making them a fantastic option when you’re craving tacos but want to keep things light and healthy.

FAQ

1. Are these Mexican dishes really low in calories?

Yes, all the dishes in this list are designed to be under 500 calories per serving, allowing you to enjoy flavorful Mexican food while staying mindful of your calorie intake.

2. Can I customize the ingredients to suit my dietary needs?

Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be easily modified to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian. You can substitute ingredients like cheese or sour cream with lighter alternatives or add more veggies for extra fiber.

3. Are these dishes easy to prepare at home?

Yes, most of these recipes are quick and easy to make at home, with simple ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store. Many of them require minimal cooking time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

4. Can I make these dishes in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! Many of these Mexican dishes, like the Spicy Black Bean Soup or Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers, are great for meal prepping. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for later, making healthy eating throughout the week a breeze.