One of the best parts about vacationing in Mexico is trying the yummy, authentic Mexican food. There are plenty of healthy, fresh, authentic, and tasty recipes to try in Cancún. We’ve provided you with a short guide to healthy eating in Cancún, without compromising the taste or authenticity.
Scanning the Menu
When you scan the food menus in Cancún, look for the phrase “a la parilla.” This means that the food is grilled over an open flame. Usually, you can find shrimp, steak, fish, and calamari a la parilla. If there’s a fish or meat on the menu that’s fried, you can always ask if it’s possible to cool la parilla to give the meat a healthy but slightly smoky, grilled flavor.
Taco Alternatives
Just because you eat healthily, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on tacos! Cancún is coastal so there will always be a great selection of fresh fish available on the menu. Fish tacos are the healthiest taco option as long as the fish is grilled as opposed to “baja-style” (deep-fried). With some tasty salsa, a squeeze of lime and some avocado, you can’t go wrong! If you’re cutting back on the carbs, you can always eat your taco without the taco shell, or ask for it in a lettuce leaf or “lechuga” instead.
A Must Try
You can’t visit Mexico without sampling one of its most iconic plants: the cactus. Although the cactus grows elsewhere, too, it incorporates quite well into the diet of those who reside in Cancún. Nopalito is the Mexican word for cactus, so if you see it on the menu, take a close look to see how they serve it. You can find it in tacos, served as a side dish or a garnish, but also as a common salad. Nopalito salad is cool, crunchy and a little bit tart, and is usually served with tomato, lime juice, onion and cilantro. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are all great for your health.
Fresh Selections
Ceviche is another healthy favorite: a fresh fish cured or “cooked” in the citrus acids of the fruits it’s commonly served with. You can serve it as a light fish-style salsa or in larger chunks with tacos on the side.
Another option for healthy eating in Cancún is Posole. It’s similar to a healing chicken soup, cooked with tasty ingredients like chilies, onions and lime juice, and sometimes hominy (hulled corn). This choice is guaranteed to perk you up if you’re feeling under the weather.
Guacamole is an obvious choice for all, as Avocado is full of healthy fats that help reduce cholesterol and support a healthy heart.
A Familiar Favorite
Last but not least: salsa! This savory, tasty side goes well with everything. The type of salsa that may come to mind initially is pico de gallo, but salsa can come in all forms. You make it usually with vegetables but you can make it with fruits, too. See, there are plenty of options. Enjoy healthy eating in Cancún!
Tags: Cancún
