Tacos are one of the most beloved dishes across the world due to their versatility and ability to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. But what is healthy to eat with tacos? Whether you’re enjoying beef, chicken, seafood, or vegetarian tacos, pairing them with healthy sides can elevate the meal, turning it into a balanced and flavorful experience.
In this article, we’ll explore what is healthy to eat with tacos by diving into delicious and nutritious side dishes, dips, and toppings that will make your taco night both tasty and nourishing. Let’s break down the best ways to create a healthy taco spread!
Fresh Salads to Pair with Tacos
Salads are one of the healthiest accompaniments for tacos. They add a light and refreshing element that contrasts the richness of the taco filling. You can try simple mixed green salads with lime vinaigrette or more elaborate options like avocado-cucumber salad.
One fantastic option is a watermelon and cucumber salad. The sweetness of the watermelon balances the tanginess of the lime, creating a refreshing flavor profile. You can discover more creative taco pairings on Southern Living to get inspired by unique salad ideas.
Another excellent pairing is a grilled corn and avocado salad, which is both rich in texture and light in calories. Adding ingredients like radish and cilantro enhances the freshness and gives your taco plate a colorful boost.
Grilled Vegetables for a Healthy Taco Spread
Grilled vegetables are another healthy option to pair with tacos. Not only are they delicious, but grilling veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms adds a smoky flavor that complements taco spices. You can experiment with combinations of grilled vegetables based on seasonal availability.
Pairing tacos with grilled veggies is an excellent way to get more fiber and essential nutrients while maintaining a balance between carbs, protein, and fresh vegetables. These sides go particularly well with chicken or beef tacos. If you’re looking for more ideas, you can discover the best pairings for tacos to explore traditional accompaniments.
Additionally, you can prepare your own homemade salsa or guacamole to enhance the flavors of grilled veggies. These dips not only add extra flavor but are also rich in healthy fats, making them a perfect addition to your taco table.
Fruit-Based Sides for Tacos
Adding fruit-based sides to your tacos can be a great way to introduce freshness and a hint of sweetness to the meal. Mango salsa is a popular choice that pairs well with fish or shrimp tacos. Its sweet-tart flavor adds complexity to the dish, offering a delicious contrast to the savory fillings.
Another fun and tasty option is pineapple salsa, which pairs wonderfully with pork or grilled chicken tacos. Pineapple’s tangy-sweet taste combined with a little bit of chili can bring out a new level of flavor in your taco experience.
For more inspiration on what goes well with tacos, you can check out this easy chicken tacos recipe that incorporates fruit-based salsas as a topping.
Best Sauces and Dips for Healthy Tacos
No taco night is complete without flavorful sauces and dips. While traditional options like sour cream and heavy cheese-based sauces can be delicious, lighter alternatives provide the same great taste without the extra calories.
Guacamole with a Twist
Guacamole is a staple when it comes to tacos, and the best part is that you can make it as healthy as you’d like. Instead of sticking to the basic recipe, you can add extra vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, or even some leafy greens like kale. This not only boosts the nutritional content but also adds texture and variety.
For a healthier twist, try a guacamole recipe that incorporates Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a creamier texture with fewer calories. Pair it with grilled fish or veggie tacos for a wholesome meal.
Fresh and Zesty Salsa
Salsa is another fantastic, low-calorie option to pair with tacos. Whether you go for a classic tomato salsa or something more adventurous like roasted corn salsa, this side is bursting with flavor and is packed with antioxidants.
For a spicy salsa, consider adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. These not only bring heat but also have metabolism-boosting properties. A mild pico de gallo with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime is a refreshing option that can complement any type of taco.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Pair with Healthy Tacos
The right drink can make a huge difference in the overall dining experience. For a healthier taco night, skip sugary sodas or alcoholic drinks, and opt for lighter, refreshing beverages.
Flavored Sparkling Water
Sparkling water with a hint of citrus or berry flavors is a great option. It’s refreshing and pairs well with any type of taco, from seafood to vegetarian. You can add slices of lime, mint, or cucumber to give your drink a flavor boost without adding sugar or calories.
Agua Fresca
For a more traditional Mexican pairing, agua fresca is an excellent choice. This lightly sweetened water is typically made with blended fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, or cucumber. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by using natural sweeteners like honey or skipping the sugar altogether.
If you’re looking to complement your tacos with something both hydrating and flavorful, agua fresca is perfect. It pairs wonderfully with fruit salsas and fresh guacamole.
Popular Healthy Taco Recipes
When it comes to tacos, your options are limitless. But if you’re aiming to keep things healthy, there are several taco recipes that stand out for their nutritious ingredients.
Vegetarian Tacos
Vegetarian tacos are a great way to enjoy tacos while keeping your meal light and nutrient-rich. You can fill your tortillas with black beans, grilled vegetables, or even tofu. Add toppings like fresh salsa, avocado, and a drizzle of lime to create a flavorful yet wholesome taco.
For extra variety, consider making roasted cauliflower tacos. Cauliflower is a great low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully. Pair it with a light cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh, zesty kick.
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are another healthy option that provides plenty of protein without the extra fat. Opt for grilled white fish like cod or mahi-mahi, and top your taco with a citrusy cabbage slaw and mango salsa. This light, tropical combination is perfect for summer taco nights.
For a more filling option, you can pair fish tacos with a watermelon and cucumber salad for an extra refreshing side.
Chicken Tacos
If you’re craving meat, chicken tacos made with lean chicken breast are the way to go. Grilling the chicken with spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika gives it a smoky flavor without the need for excess oil. Pair it with fresh salsa and avocado slices for a balanced meal.
You can try different seasoning blends and discover the best chicken tacos recipe.
Common Questions About Eating Healthy with Tacos
- Question 1: What sides go well with tacos other than rice? (100 words)
- Brief answer mentioning grilled veggies, salads, and fruit-based sides.
- Question 2: What are the healthiest toppings for tacos? (100 words)
- Mention avocado, pico de gallo, and light yogurt-based sauces.
- Question 3: Can tacos be part of a balanced meal? (100 words)
- Discuss how tacos can be balanced with fresh veggies, lean proteins, and light sides.
- Question 4: What drink goes best with tacos? (100 words)
- Mention agua fresca, iced tea, and non-alcoholic sparkling drinks.
- Question 5: What are good low-carb options to serve with tacos? (100 words)
- Discuss low-carb sides like grilled vegetables, cabbage slaw, and cauliflower rice.
- Question 6: Can I make tacos healthier by swapping ingredients? (100 words)
- Explain healthier ingredient swaps like whole wheat tortillas, Greek yogurt, and lean proteins.
- Question 7: What type of protein is best for healthy tacos? (100 words)
- Focus on lean protein options like chicken, turkey, fish, and plant-based alternatives.
- Question 8: Are there any vegan options for tacos? (100 words)
- Mention plant-based fillings like black beans, tofu, and grilled vegetables, along with vegan toppings.
Conclusion: Create a Balanced, Healthy Taco Meal
Tacos don’t have to be an indulgent treat—they can easily become a healthy, balanced meal when paired with the right sides, dips, and drinks. Whether you choose fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or fruit-based salsas, you have plenty of options to keep your taco night flavorful and nutritious.
Experiment with different combinations and don’t be afraid to step outside of the traditional taco ingredients. By incorporating healthy sides and toppings, you’ll find that tacos can be both delicious and good for you. So the next time you’re wondering what is healthy to eat with tacos, you’ll be prepared to create a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your well-being.