Mexican-inspired keto and low carb recipes

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If you’re new to a low carb lifestyle, you may think that Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, with its characteristic tortillas and rice, is no longer an option.
Fortunately, once you look past the burritos and the tacos, you’ll discover that Mexican food is so much more than these high carb ingredients.
With the help of our tips, recipes and meal plans below, you will discover that Mexican and Tex-Mex food can be easily adapted to a keto and low carb diet. The best part? You won’t lose any of the bold authentic flavors.
Several of the Mexican-inspired recipes featured in this collection were created by Carina Cueva and Dr. Alberto Mendez, experts in low carb and keto nutrition in Mexico.
They were adapted specifically for Diet Doctor by our very own low carb Mexican food recipe creator, Kristina Wetter.

What’s new?

What can I eat at Mexican restaurants on a keto diet?

If you’d prefer to eat out or get takeout tonight, there are plenty of keto and low carb friendly Mexican food options. Here are some tips for when choosing your dish:

How to stay keto dining out

  1. The simpler the better. Meat or seafood-based dishes that are grilled or cooked on a skillet are typically keto and low carb friendly.
  2. Choose high flavor, low carb dips and seasonings. Salsa fresca (also known as “pico de gallo”), guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese are toppings that add tons of flavor without excess carbs.
  3. If you don’t know, ask! Some ingredients in salsas, moles, and quesos feature high-sugar fruits or use flour as a thickener. Make sure to check with the restaurant if you are unsure.
  4. Hold the chips! Or you can bring your own like our keto cheese chips or low carb zucchini nacho chips. You can also dip low carb vegetables like celery, cucumbers, radishes, or jicama.
  5. Don’t get short-changed. Ask your waiter if you can substitute extra vegetables or a side salad to replace the rice or tortillas.

Mexican recipes

Our tortilla recipes

On a real Mexican table, you would never leave out traditional homemade tortillas. That is why we have created low carb versions.

Eat them on their own, as a bread replacement, or garnish them with savory toppings and fillings to create the most delicious low carb tacos, burritos and enchiladas:

Poultry recipes

Did you know that Mexicans are among the largest group of chicken eaters in the world? That is because chicken is one of the most versatile meats.

You can make everything from broths, to stews, to casseroles, and virtually every Mexican food craving imaginable! Here are some of our favorite chicken recipes:

Meat recipes

Most culinary experts will agree that meat is at the center of Mexican and Tex-Mex gastronomy. It’s elevated by using marinades, spicy seasonings, and slow cooking methods. Here are some irresistible ideas to make your meat scream Arriba!

Fish and seafood recipes

Although Mexicans are famous for their meat dishes, fish and seafood are also very popular on the Mexican coasts. If you love seafood, or if you simply don’t eat meat, here are some ideas for fresh Mexican-inspired seafood dishes:

Vegetarian recipes

Are you a vegetarian? “No hay problema.” We have options for you! Eggs and cheese are the foundational ingredients in these dishes, which are both particularly appreciated in Mexican cuisine. Among them is one of our favorite recipes: the irresistible Keto quesadillas. Simple and satisfying!

Dips and seasonings

And finally, the highlight of Mexican cuisine are the dips and the seasonings. They give Mexican food its signature character, and are arguably why this cuisine is so loved and appreciated all over the world.

Cooking videos

Mexican inspired keto casserole
MEMBERS ONLY
Keto burger plate Tex-Mex style
Low-carb beef burrito with Pico de Gallo
Around the world

In this recipe collection, you’ll find low carb recipes influenced by different world cuisines: Asia, France, India, Scandinavia, and Mexico. Enjoy!

Vegetarian Low-Carb Cauliflower Pizza with Artichokes
Fast-food favorites

Does eating keto or low carb mean that you have to give up all the foods you know and love? Of course not! Here you’ll find “ketofied” meals that you often find in fast-food places.

Jill's Cheese Crusted Omelet - A Keto Breakfast Favorite
On a budget

People often think eating low carb and keto is expensive. But it really doesn’t have to be. Check out our money-saving tips and budget-friendly recipes.