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Mexican diet plan for beginners

New to Mexican cuisine? This beginner-friendly Mexican diet plan introduces you to the vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients typical of Mexican cooking, in a simple and approachable way.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Avocado
  • Black beans
  • Chicken breast
  • Corn tortillas
  • Roma tomatoes
  • Jalapeño peppers
  • Cilantro
  • Brown rice
  • Lime
  • Queso fresco
  • Chayote

  • Sweet potato
  • Papaya
  • Mango
  • Coconut milk
  • Plantains
  • Pork loin
  • Tilapia
  • Shrimp
  • Eggs
  • Whole milk
  • Serrano peppers

  • Tomatillos
  • Red onion
  • Garlic
  • Zucchini
  • Spinach
  • Pinto beans
  • Quinoa
  • Oregano
  • Cumin
  • Cinnamon
  • Vanilla extract

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Article Reviewed
• Written by Zuzanna Kędziora
• Published on May 22, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

If you're new to Mexican cuisine, the mexican diet plan for beginners is a fantastic way to dive in. This plan introduces you to the staples of Mexican cooking, like beans, rice, and corn, and shows you how to use them in a variety of healthy dishes. You'll learn how to balance flavors and nutrition in meals that are vibrant and satisfying.

This diet isn't just about enjoying Mexican food; it's about integrating it into a healthy lifestyle. Each meal is designed to be nutritionally complete, ensuring you get a good mix of macronutrients and micronutrients.

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Foods to eat

  • Beans and Legumes: Rich in fiber and protein, including black beans, pinto beans, and lentils.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Focus on colorful varieties like bell peppers, tomatoes, and zucchinis.
  • Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and whole corn tortillas are great carbohydrate sources.
  • Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, and fish to keep meals balanced and nutritious.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocados and nuts provide essential fatty acids and add richness to dishes.
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The best diet is the one you don't know you're on.

Brian Wansink, PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Refined Sugars: Avoid sodas, sweets, and anything with added sugars.
  • Fried Foods: Minimize intake of deep-fried dishes like churros or crispy tacos.
  • Heavy Dairy: Limit full-fat cheeses and creams to reduce saturated fat intake.
  • Processed Meats: Steer clear of sausages and bacon that are high in sodium and preservatives.
  • Excessive Salt: Cut back on added salt in cooking and at the table.

Main benefits

Embracing the mexican diet plan for beginners brings a kaleidoscope of flavors that make eating healthy a joyful experience. This diet introduces newcomers to a balance of fresh vegetables, beans, and lean meats that are staples in Mexican cuisine, supporting overall well-being and energy levels. It’s particularly effective in easing the transition to healthier eating habits through familiar, yet nutritionally rich, meals. Plus, the incorporation of spices and herbs enhances metabolic rate, which can aid in managing weight without sacrificing taste.

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📊 50% of Americans said they follow a specific diet or eating pattern (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Start with basic ingredients that are versatile and inexpensive like beans, rice, and corn tortillas. Mexican cuisine uses a lot of the same spices, so buy them in bulk and mix your own blends. Street food recipes are usually cheap to make and packed with flavor. Plan your meals around sales and seasonal produce to keep costs down. Make larger batches of stews and chili, as they often taste better the next day and will stretch further.

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7-Day Meal Plan for Mexican Diet Plan for Beginners

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with diced Roma tomatoes and cilantro
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with brown rice and sautéed zucchini
  • Dinner: Pork loin tacos with corn tortillas, red onion, and avocado
  • Snack: Fresh mango slices

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with papaya, coconut milk, and vanilla extract
  • Lunch: Pinto beans with quinoa and roasted sweet potato
  • Dinner: Baked tilapia with chayote and lime
  • Snack: Queso fresco with sliced avocado

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Omelet with spinach, red onion, and Serrano peppers
  • Lunch: Shrimp salad with Roma tomatoes, cilantro, and lime
  • Dinner: Chicken and black bean burrito with corn tortillas
  • Snack: Plantain chips with cinnamon

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Avocado toast on corn tortillas with a side of papaya
  • Lunch: Pork loin with brown rice and sautéed chayote
  • Dinner: Tilapia tacos with tomatillo salsa, cilantro, and lime
  • Snack: Mango with a dash of chili powder

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with black beans and spinach
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with avocado, Roma tomatoes, and lime
  • Dinner: Grilled shrimp with sweet potato and red onion
  • Snack: Fresh papaya slices with lime

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with mango, whole milk, and vanilla extract
  • Lunch: Chicken breast with quinoa and sautéed zucchini
  • Dinner: Pork loin with pinto beans and avocado
  • Snack: Plantain chips with cinnamon

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Omelet with red onion, jalapeño peppers, and cilantro
  • Lunch: Black bean and sweet potato tacos with corn tortillas
  • Dinner: Shrimp with brown rice, tomatillos, and lime
  • Snack: Queso fresco with sliced mango

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.