Mexican meal plan for vegans
The Mexican meal plan for vegans features plant-based versions of traditional Mexican dishes. It focuses on beans, lentils, tofu, and a wide range of vegetables, seasoned with Mexican herbs and spices. Dishes such as vegan tacos, bean burritos, and vegetable-based enchiladas offer a delicious and nutritionally complete vegan diet.
Meal plan grocery list
Avocado
Whole grain bread
Lettuce
Black beans
Corn
Salsa
Almond milk
Oats
Almonds
Berries
Quinoa
Bell peppers
Guacamole
Carrots
Cucumbers
Hummus
Spinach
Banana
Spinach
Lentils
Pumpkin seeds
Various vegetables
Coconut milk
Mango
Meal plan overview
Explore the vibrant world of vegan Mexican cuisine with the Mexican meal plan for vegans. This plan adapts traditional Mexican recipes to suit a vegan lifestyle, focusing on plant-based ingredients and bold flavors.
Featuring a variety of beans, grains, and vegetables, it's a healthful and flavorful approach to enjoying vegan Mexican dishes.
Foods to eat
- Seafood: Grilled fish tacos, shrimp ceviche, and other seafood dishes.
- Whole Grains: Whole grain tortillas, brown rice, and quinoa.
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and avocados in salsas, salads, and as toppings.
- Legumes: Black beans, pinto beans, and lentils in soups and as side dishes.
- Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin seeds (pepitas), almonds, and sunflower seeds.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil for cooking, and avocado as a healthy fat source.
- Fruits: Mango, papaya, and citrus fruits for natural sweetness and vitamins.
- Herbs and Spices: Cilantro, cumin, and chili peppers for flavor without excess salt.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- Refined Grains: White rice and flour tortillas.
- High-Fat Meats: Fatty cuts of beef and pork commonly used in traditional Mexican dishes.
- Fried Foods: Nachos, chimichangas, and other deep-fried items.
- Heavy Cream Sauces: Cream-based sauces like queso and sour cream in excess.
- High-Sodium Snacks: Salted tortilla chips and processed snacks.
- Sugary Beverages: Sweetened drinks and high-calorie cocktails.
- Excessive Cheese: High-fat cheeses used in large quantities.
- Processed Foods: Canned refried beans and pre-made salsa with added preservatives.
Main benefits
The Mexican meal plan for the Mediterranean diet incorporates the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine into the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet. It focuses on a variety of vegetables, beans, whole grains, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil. Fish and poultry are included as lean protein sources, seasoned with traditional Mexican herbs and spices, creating a unique fusion that's both delicious and nutritious.
🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
Vegans can enjoy flavorful Mexican dishes with these alternatives:
- Cashew cream instead of sour cream for a dairy-free option.
- Jackfruit as a meat substitute in tacos and burritos for a pulled meat texture.
- Almond yogurt instead of dairy yogurt for a plant-based alternative.
- Use nutritional yeast to replace cheese in dishes for a savory flavor.
- Spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a low-carb, vegan-friendly alternative.
How to budget on this meal plan
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Experience the bold and plant-based flavors of Mexico with these 7 delicious vegan snacks:
- Fresh fruit skewers with chili lime seasoning
- Guacamole with raw vegetable sticks
- Coconut yogurt parfait with mixed berries
- Black bean hummus with whole grain pita chips
- Vegan tacos with refried beans, salsa, and avocado
- Spicy roasted chickpeas with cumin and paprika
- Quinoa salad with avocado, black beans, and corn
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For vegans following a Mexican style diet, beverages are an opportunity to enhance your diet. Always choose water for hydration. Herbal teas are a great way to add variety. Aguas frescas made with fresh fruits and minimal sugar are a delightful vegan treat. Coffee is a staple in Mexican culture; enjoy it black or with plant-based milk. Avoid drinks with animal-derived ingredients, ensuring your choices align with vegan principles.
How to get even more nutrients?
Meal plan suggestion
Mexican Vegan Meal Plan
Day 1
- Breakfast: Avocado Toast on Whole Grain Bread (calories: 250, protein: 6g, carbs: 30g, fat: 14g)
- Lunch: Vegan Taco Salad with Lettuce, Black Beans, Corn, Avocado, and Salsa (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 60g, fat: 15g)
- Snack: Fresh Fruit Salad with Lime Juice (calories: 120, protein: 2g, carbs: 30g, fat: 0.5g)
- Dinner: Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Bell Peppers (calories: 450, protein: 18g, carbs: 70g, fat: 10g)
Day 2
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with Almond Milk, Topped with Berries and Almonds (calories: 300, protein: 10g, carbs: 45g, fat: 10g)
- Lunch: Vegan Burrito Bowl with Brown Rice, Black Beans, Grilled Vegetables, and Guacamole (calories: 500, protein: 20g, carbs: 80g, fat: 15g)
- Snack: Carrot and Cucumber Sticks with Hummus (calories: 150, protein: 6g, carbs: 20g, fat: 6g)
- Dinner: Vegetable Fajitas with Whole Wheat Tortillas (calories: 400, protein: 12g, carbs: 60g, fat: 12g)
Day 3
- Breakfast: Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, Almond Milk, and Protein Powder (calories: 280, protein: 20g, carbs: 40g, fat: 5g)
- Lunch: Lentil Soup with Vegetables and a Side of Corn Tortillas (calories: 350, protein: 18g, carbs: 50g, fat: 8g)
- Snack: A Small Handful of Pumpkin Seeds (calories: 180, protein: 9g, carbs: 10g, fat: 15g)
- Dinner: Vegan Chili with a Variety of Beans and Vegetables (calories: 400, protein: 20g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
Day 4
- Breakfast: Chia Seed Pudding with Coconut Milk and Fresh Mango (calories: 250, protein: 5g, carbs: 25g, fat: 15g)
- Lunch: Grilled Portobello Mushroom Tacos with Salsa Verde on Corn Tortillas (calories: 350, protein: 10g, carbs: 50g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: Fresh Salsa with Baked Tortilla Chips (calories: 150, protein: 3g, carbs: 25g, fat: 4g)
- Dinner: Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with a Side of Brown Rice (calories: 450, protein: 18g, carbs: 65g, fat: 15g)
Day 5
- Breakfast: Whole Grain Cereal with Almond Milk and Berries (calories: 280, protein: 8g, carbs: 50g, fat: 6g)
- Lunch: Black Bean Soup with a Side of Guacamole and Veggies (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 45g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: Sliced Bell Peppers with Guacamole (calories: 150, protein: 3g, carbs: 18g, fat: 10g)
- Dinner: Vegan Enchiladas with a Light Tomato Sauce and Side Salad (calories: 400, protein: 12g, carbs: 60g, fat: 12g)
Day 6
- Breakfast: Scrambled Tofu with Onions, Bell Peppers, and Tomatoes (calories: 300, protein: 20g, carbs: 15g, fat: 18g)
- Lunch: Spinach Salad with Avocado, Orange Slices, and a Citrus Vinaigrette (calories: 350, protein: 5g, carbs: 30g, fat: 25g)
- Snack: A Small Banana (calories: 100, protein: 1g, carbs: 27g, fat: 0.3g)
- Dinner: Veggie Enchiladas with a Light Tomato Sauce, Mexican Cauliflower Rice (calories: 400, protein: 12g, carbs: 35g, fat: 22g)
Day 7
- Breakfast: Avocado and Tomato on Whole Grain Toast (calories: 250, protein: 6g, carbs: 30g, fat: 14g)
- Lunch: Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Poblano Peppers (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 60g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: Yogurt Alternative with a Sprinkle of Granola (calories: 150, protein: 6g, carbs: 20g, fat: 6g)
- Dinner: Black Bean and Vegetable Fajitas with Whole Wheat Tortillas (calories: 450, protein: 15g, carbs: 65g, fat: 15g)
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⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Feb 29, 2024
- Updated on Nov 22, 2024