I'm often met with a confused look when I excitedly mention how tacos, fajitas, and burritos can be a healthy meal. Most think high fat queso and sodium-laden meats when thinking of the standard Mexican-style meal you're served in your local restaurant. But, when I think tacos, burritos, and fajitas, I think vegetables. It's the perfect opportunity to load up on veggie servings alongside fiber-rich beans. Add herbs and spices and you're well on your way to a flavor-packed, fiber-rich, veggie-loaded, tasty plate of delicious food that's sure to satisfy.
Packaged taco and fajita seasoning can be extremely high in sodium. One way to cut back on the sodium is to make your own fajita seasoning. It requires purchasing a variety of seasonings, but you can mix a big batch and have it as a go-to for future meals. Just store in an airtight container for as long as you would keep spices on the shelf (about 1 year).
Fajita Seasoning
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 - 1 tsp cayenne pepper (to taste)
Mix in a bowl and set aside for the following recipe. If using for a later date then double and put half in an airtight container. You will use all of the seasoning for the recipe below.
Vegetarian Fajita Stir Fry
Makes 4 servings (1 serving is two filled tortillas)
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 16oz can low sodium black beans
2 each bell peppers (orange and red preferred)
1 each tomato (on the vine or roma)
1/2 each red onion
1 4oz can green chiles (I used Hatch brand)
8 each corn tortillas (I used La Tortilla Factory 6in tortillas)
Preparation
In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Slice onions, bell peppers, and tomato and set aside. Using a strainer, rinse black beans under cold water and set aside. Add sliced onions to pan and sauté until browned and slightly translucent. Add fajita seasoning, bell peppers, tomatoes, green chiles, and rinsed black beans. Stir and allow to cook over medium heat for another 10 minutes or until peppers are cooked through.
If you'd prefer meat in your dish then chicken is a good option. Slice boneless, skinless chicken breast and add to pan with the onions. Cook until browned, but not cooked all the way through. Then add the remainder of the ingredients (beans optional) and saute until chicken is cooked through.
Serve over tortillas and top with your choice of toppings.
ANEWtrition Tip: Turn leftovers into a fajita salad. Chop lettuce and spinach and add to a bowl. Top with the fajita stir fry and add salsa for a dressing.
Toppings Bar:
greek yogurt, avocado, salsa, hot sauce, chopped cilantro, diced onions, shredded cheese
