Mexican cuisine is famous for its spicy seasonings and diverse ingredients. Many dishes from across the country, from Yucatán to Tijuana, have Indigenous roots and are based on wholesome ingredients that invite a healthier twist on classic recipes. It’s possible to skip fried meats and cheesy calorie bombs thanks to raw cuisine—using fresh, uncooked ingredients—without giving up those unmistakable Mexican nuances. These are easy recipes and dishes where it’s always best to use the freshest market produce, whether you want to enjoy a healthy meal just for the pleasure of it or impress your guests with these delicious, straightforward examples.
1. Guacamole
Of Aztec origin, guacamole is a true institution in Mexico. Its essence—and its success—lie in its universality and simplicity. Of course, the main ingredient is avocado, one of the most nutrient-rich foods the earth gives us. From there, it’s all about mashing the flesh well, adding just the right amount of cumin, garlic, and lime, and enjoying. By the way, etymologically speaking, guacamole comes from the Aztec Nahuatl word that combines the terms “avocado” and “sauce.”
2. Spicy mango salsa
This dish stands out for elevating the blend of sweet and spicy. Mango has long been a staple on Mexican tables for centuries, and it’s now riding a wave of global popularity. To prepare this fruit-based spicy salsa, simply adjust the amount of pepper, add lime juice, and sauté the red onions to strike the perfect balance with the mango’s sweetness.
3. Walnut taco
Without a doubt, the soul of a Mexican taco is the meat, but you don’t always have to sacrifice a healthy meal to give in to its flavor. A walnut can replace this carnivorous craving while providing the body with antioxidants, Omega-3s, and vitamin E—highly beneficial for the brain and skin health. As with other raw dishes, the secret lies in the dressing and in combining the ingredients to achieve the desired flavor.
4. Kale, avocado, and chili salad
Salads are always a tasty way to enjoy raw food without needing them as a side to any other dish. In this case, Mexico’s variety of flavors makes wonders like this recipe possible, where the kick of chili blends with the lushness of kale and a base of avocado. And to add more color and variety, sprinkle in a bit of cayenne, almonds, and cucumbers so the flavor journey to Mexico feels complete.
5. Mexican ceviche
Yes, ceviche is raw cuisine, much as most people forget it. The citrus acids from lime and pineapple flavor the fish and, in some cases, make it seem cooked—hence why many don’t realize this undeniable fact about its preparation. The trick is to marinate the ingredients according to the type of seafood or fish you use. And, of course, add green chili and cilantro to make this recipe—so popular across Latin America—distinctly Mexican.
6. Raw corn tortillas
Every lover of Mexican cuisine knows that corn tortillas are the ABCs of its cooking. To make them, all you need is a food processor. Before dehydrating the corn, it’s a good idea to add sun-dried tomato and paprika to give more flavor to this healthy, alternative raw-food recipe.
7. Raw tortilla soup
For this raw take on traditional tortilla soup, you only need the classic ingredients—tomato, onion, garlic, celery, chili powder—plus fresh cilantro, peppers, and a pinch of salt. The bold flavors of celery, garlic, and chili powder give it a unique character, making it a fresh, worthy alternative to the classic Mexican tortilla soup. To impress even the most traditional palates, serve it with sliced avocado and, of course, accompany it with corn tortillas.
8. Vegetarian fajitas
The key to making this raw dish is the marinade. Let the colorful poblano peppers, onions, and garlic soak in apple cider vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, and olive oil for up to 4–5 hours. After this exercise in patience, the result will be worth it. And to make them 100% healthy, use lettuce leaves instead of (sometimes greasy) fried corn tortillas.
So many flavors to try and experiment with definitely call for a vacation in Mexico. With Iberostar, you have more than 10 hotels in Mexico (Riviera Maya and Nayarit, Cancún and Cozumel). Take a look at our offers and come taste the country!
