Mexican and Southwestern Food Recipes
Baked Tortilla Casserole
Easy, economical, and loaded with filling protein, this pantry-based meal offers a modern twist on the traditional casserole and can be prepared the day before. Simply pop it in the oven when ready to eat! Given this job I do, I have a tendency to tinker with recipes, never quite making the same thing…
Easy One Avocado Guacamole
A dollop of guacamole adds a little something special to so many meals, and it’s a heart-healthy snack, too. But sometimes you don’t need a big batch, or perhaps you only have one avocado. This speedy recipe is for those times and more! Fun fact: avocados are also known as alligator pears, and less…
Healthy Refried Beans
Quick and easy to make with pantry staples, homemade refried beans add filling, plant-based protein to a variety of meals and form the flavorful foundation to one of my go-to speedy dinners! Beans can be a hard sell for some. Their reputation precedes them and they don’t look especially pretty. So if you happen…
Make-Ahead Savory Breakfast Bowls
Simple meal-prep is rewarded with wholesome, grab-and-go meals for the week, which can customized and topped to taste. They’re equally satisfying as a packable lunch or easy dinner, too. For the first time ever, my older son John has to fend for himself for every single meal – in a new city with no…
Cheater Shrimp Ceviche (no raw seafood!)
A wholesome and refreshing appetizer or light meal, this easy-to-make Shrimp Ceviche recipe incorporates a blend of citrus to hit all the right flavor notes…and no raw seafood! Is it “se-vish” or “se-vish-ay”…or “seh-vee-chay?” When the mercury is soaring and you serve this light, refreshing dish, I’d venture to say nobody will care how you…
Candied Jalapeños (a.k.a Cowboy Candy)
Spicy-sweet pickled jalapeños add flavor to burgers, sandwiches, tacos, rice, and more. Bake them into cornbread or use whenever you don’t have fresh jalapeños on hand. I’ve included lots of delicious ways to make use of these zippy bites, and over time you’ll discover countless more ways to enjoy them! This is one of those whisper-down-the-lane…
Southwestern Nourish Bowls
Brimming with colorful vegetables and plant-based protein, these nutrient-dense bowls are filling, adaptable and easy to prep for the week ahead. (Great portable work lunch, too!) Do you have a favorite restaurant meal or prepared food option that you’d like to replicate at home? If so, what is it? With the abundance of…
Roasted Veggie “Nachos”
Roasted Veggie “Nachos” are a healthy, super satisfying spin on the typical appetizer that can be customized to taste and enjoyed as a filling, plant-based meal. (Easy sheet pan prep is an added bonus!) We all know that diet and exercise go hand in hand. If we want to reach or maintain our fitness goals, we…
Slow Cooker Taco Chicken (with freezer bag option)
A good freezer bag meal will come to your rescue on busy weeknights and when cooking for a friend in need. Taco chicken is family friendly, endlessly versatile, and quick to prep. Last year I turned the bags into practical gifts for several friends, because who couldn’t use a healthy meal and a night off…
Baked Tacos
This clever approach to tacos offers a fun twist on an old favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, and game day. Plus you can serve everyone at once! Taco Tuesday is about to get easier, healthier – and quite possibly a little tastier! Taco night was a big deal when I was…
Avocado Tomato Salsa
Keep this super simple salsa recipe in your back pocket all year round to add flavor and flare to chicken, fish, beans, salads, eggs, and in place of guacamole in your favorite south-of-the-border fare. Perfect as a dip with tortilla chips, too! My family always enjoys something saucy on grilled meats, and the following…
Homemade Sazón Seasoning
Homemade Sazón Seasoning is an easy-to-make alternative to the store-bought packets that eliminates MSG and lets you control the salt. Ideal for homemade chicken & rice, a variety of Latin dishes, and as a dry spice rub. Maria is a faithful and utterly delightful employee at my longtime gym, and over the years…
