I have cooked 95% of my meals at home during #75hard, but traveling for the holiday made things a bit difficult and I ended up eating out twice this week (both at Mexican restaurants 😂). Here’s how I did it:
Chuy’s - I got the tex mex burrito bowl! It was delicious and honestly not bad macro-wise at all. No chips 🙂
Local Mexican restaurant (pictured) - I ordered a fajita quesadilla with no tortilla and queso on the side. I drizzled about 1 tbsp of queso on the rice and it was plenty!
Always ask for condiments on the side if you can, you don’t always need the full serving of salad dressing or dipping sauce and it’s an easy way to save calories while still fully enjoying your meal ❤️
I have found balance and can live and eat this way forever while still reaching my goals. I hope you’re able to find what works for you 😊
... Read moreIt's completely understandable to feel like eating out, especially at a Mexican restaurant, is a major challenge when you're committed to something like the #75Hard program. I've been there, staring at menus and wondering how to enjoy a meal without feeling guilty or undoing all my hard work. But I've learned that with a few smart strategies, you absolutely can indulge in your favorite Mexican flavors and stay on track with your health and fitness goals.
One common question I see is, "Is a quesadilla healthy?" The truth is, it depends! A traditional quesadilla, loaded with cheese and often made with large flour tortillas, can quickly become a calorie bomb. However, as I discovered with my deconstructed fajita quesadilla, you can transform it. By opting for chicken, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, and asking for less cheese or having it on the side, you're focusing on lean protein and vegetables. The image from my meal, showing the vibrant chicken and peppers with just a drizzle of queso over the rice, perfectly illustrates how you can enjoy the essence of a quesadilla without the excess. It's all about making conscious choices that align with your dietary needs.
Beyond my go-to burrito bowl and the deconstructed quesadilla, there are so many other fantastic ways to enjoy Mexican food healthily. When I'm looking at a menu, I always prioritize grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or fish. Fajitas are another excellent choice – just ask for corn tortillas (they're usually smaller and sometimes lower in calories than flour) or skip them altogether and just enjoy the flavorful grilled meat and veggies. Load up on salsa and pico de gallo for freshness and flavor without added calories.
Thinking about fast food Mexican options? It’s all about making informed swaps. Instead of fried taco shells, go for soft corn tortillas. Skip the sour cream and extra cheese; instead, ask for extra lettuce, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. Black beans are generally a healthier choice than refried beans, which often contain added fats. And while chips and guacamole are tempting, remember that guacamole, while healthy, is calorie-dense, and chips add a lot of empty calories. If you really want chips, ask for a small portion and stick to a few.
For those curious about specific dishes like "tacos 120" or "chilaquiles calories," it’s hard to give an exact number, as recipes vary widely. However, it's safe to assume that dishes involving fried elements (like many chilaquiles recipes with fried tortillas) or a lot of rich sauces will be higher in calories. My strategy is to choose items with clear, fresh ingredients, or to ask how dishes are prepared. Don't be afraid to ask for modifications! Most restaurants are happy to accommodate requests like "sauce on the side" or "no cheese."
Ultimately, finding balance in your eating habits, even during an intense challenge like 75 Hard, is key to long-term success. It's not about deprivation, but about making smart, sustainable choices that let you enjoy food and still reach your goals. Experiment with different modifications, listen to your body, and don't be afraid to ask for what you need. You've got this!