If there is one universally loved food in our office, it has to be tacos. Tacos are personally one of my favorite foods. They are customizable, portable, and can be filled with veggies, which pack a nutritious punch. Healthy tacos also make the perfect quick dinner. When I was growing up, one of the quick dinners that my mom would make were ground beef tacos. As I got older, I got assigned chopping duty (for the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, etc), which helped get dinner on the table even faster.
Even now, tacos make their way into my meal prep quite regularly. I also will make them for group dinners with friends, and on vacation! One of the best parts of making healthy tacos is how customizable they are. Need to keep your tacos gluten free? Stick to corn tortillas instead of flour. Are you vegetarian? Beans are an excellent source of protein for your tacos. What about dairy free due to an allergy or intolerance? Skip the cheese and sour cream. What if you are trying to lower your cholesterol? Add some avocado to boost your heart healthy fat intake!
See?? The healthy tacos possibilities are endless. Below, you will find some of our favorite and dietitian approved taco recipes that you can make year round!
California Tacos
This is a really quick meal to throw together when you are running short on time. By using pre marinaded chicken breasts, all you have to do is cook the meat, chop everything else, and you are ready to go! Feel free to leave out the jalapeño if you like a more mild flavor. Recipe here.
Chile-Lime Shrimp Tacos
Using shrimp as the protein in your taco is a great alternative to the classic chicken or beef. And because the shrimp defrost rather quickly, you can get dinner on the table in a zip. Check out this recipe here.
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
This taco recipe comes from our Mayhem to Mealtime recipe collection, which is featured in our Taste the Sweet Rebellion book. As mangos come into season this summer, try this delicious mango salsa to liven up your dish. Recipe here.
Ground Beef Tacos
Like the taco your mom would make when you were little, but with less sodium! You can also make this ground beef taco recipe with chicken or turkey. Use leftovers to make this delicious taco salad. Recipe here.
You can also have a blended beef and mushroom taco as a healthier option
Hawaiian Pork Tacos with Pineapple Habanero Salsa
Fusion cuisine is all the rage right now, and so is this Hawaiian taco recipe. The meat is made in the slow cooker, and can be made ahead of time. Reheat the pork when ready to serve, and top with the pineapple habanero salsa. Recipe here.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos
Another delicious slow cooker pork taco recipe. Feel free to double the batch of pork and freeze half! That will make throwing dinner together and breeze in the future.
Steak Tacos
Summer is one of my favorite time of year, because corn is finally in season! Grill up some extra corn at your weekend BBQ and make this delicious steak taco recipe with yummy corn and pepper topping.
Dessert Tacos with Ricotta and Fruit
Who says tacos can be eating multiple times a day? Check out these delicious dessert tacos that will put a sweet spin to any Mexican fiesta. Recipe here.
If you would like help fitting tacos into your healthy lifestyle, make an appointment with one of our registered dietitians by clicking here or calling 301-474-2499.
Whether you are a novice in the kitchen, or a seasoned chef, Dietitian Klara will work with you to help you reach your nutrition goals. Co-author of Nourished: 10 Ingredients to Happy, Healthy Eating, Cooking with Diabetes and Cooking with Food Sensitivities Guide.
