How to Make Healthy Tacos: 10 Tips for a Healthier Taco Night
By: Suzanne Kvilhaug
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Tacos bring the light. Don’t they?! I make them about twice a week and they continually hit the spot. What’s really distinct about tacos is how much of a spectrum there is. You name it, they got it. Now that means that sometimes tacos can be unhealthy and sometimes tacos can be healthy. If you’re looking to create a healthy taco night that doesn’t skimp on taste, here are 10 tips to help you make that happen.
Choose a plant-based protein
Tempeh tacos have a ring to it for a reason. By far my favorite ingredient to use as a base in tacos, tempeh can be flavored with almost anything you want or it can be left as is. Nutrient-dense, packed with protein and super easy to make, tempeh tacos prove that plant-based meals can deliver on both taste and nutrition.
Use organic lettuce
Some greens continue to make the dirty dozen list so go and splurge a little on organic lettuce. Want to go even further with it? Try making tacos with a lettuce shell-like these vegan spicy black bean lettuce wraps.
Skip the nightshades
If only everything we liked to eat was liked by our systems. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way, especially when it comes to nightshades. The debate on nightshades is one that continues- some people claim nightshades can contribute to autoimmune issues, food sensitivities, and inflammation. Two nightshades that are common in tacos? Peppers and tomatoes. Even though I tried fighting it, nightshades make me feel crappy so they finally got the permanent boot. If you make tacos with nightshades and notice the next day that you’re feeling a little off, there’s still a lot of different options that bring as much flavor without the pain.
Add an avocado
Although I don’t eat avocados as often as I used to, they are a must in any taco. In my opinion, they make the taco. Really really love avocados? Then go all in and make a recipe that uses the avocado as the base.
Prepare your own healthy taco seasoning
When I started learning how to cook, I used an already made seasoning mix and felt like a Michelin star chef in the making. Ah yes, hindsight is definitely 20/20. Go the extra mile and create your own healthy taco seasoning. It will make everything taste that much better and you’ll be left without any questionable ingredients.
Go with dried beans
The ease of cooking with canned beans can be so tempting but if you want to develop healthier habits in the kitchen, buy dried beans and use them instead. Need some convincing? Check out 4 reasons dried beans are better than canned.
Choose smaller shells
Looks can be deceiving. If you want to make healthier tacos, get smaller shells! I started buying street-size tortillas thinking they may be a little bit too small but I’m completely satisfied without being too full. And this way you can make more if you want more but you won’t overeat a huge taco just because it’s there.
Try unlikely vegetables
What will these creative recipe creators think of next? Likely, a new type of taco. With so many veggie taco options, where to begin?! Cauliflower & lentils, squash, Brussel sprouts, and purple cabbage can all elevate your taco experience.
Make Them with a sweet potato
If I ever have a personal chef, I’m requesting these taco-stuffed sweet potatoes recipes on the daily. Talk about the perfect mix of innovation, beauty, clean eating, and taste all in one. Vegan and gluten-free, these taco-stuffed sweet potatoes are made with lentil-walnut “meat,” cabbage slaw, and avocado.
Find a tasty healthy side
Alright, so you made these great healthy tacos now you’re about to throw some mediocre tortilla chips and subpar salsa on a plate to finish off the meal, but wait! Get a little creative and think outside the box. There are a lot of healthy choices that perfectly complement tacos. Curious about ideas? These healthy side recipes do not disappoint- oven-baked french fries, vegan Mexican street corn, mango salsa and baked tortilla corn chips, Mexican slaw with cilantro and lime, and dairy-free sour cream.
Want a healthy-ish drink to pair with your tacos for the ultimate healthy taco night? These high-quality cocktails pair well with tacos.
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