Let’s take a moment to “taco ‘bout” tacos and how they are typically served at restaurants. Oftentimes, tacos are served with cheese, sour cream, and a never-ending basket of tortilla chips. These additions can contribute a lot of fat, calories, and carbs to the meal. If you are trying to eat a diabetes-friendly version, consider making tacos at home using healthier ingredients like those that are found in these 8 recipes that will take your next taco Tuesday to the next level.
This recipe round-up has a variety of taco options, from traditional to Asian-inspired to plant-based versions. These diabetes-friendly taco recipes use fresh veggies, lower-fat cheese and sour cream alternatives, and spices to boost flavor—making them just as tasty as the original.
Diabetes-Friendly Pork Tacos
Chipotle BBQ Pork Folded Tacos
Calories: 150 | Carbs: 17
Break out the slow cooker for this Tex-Mex inspired pork taco. Finished off in a simmering BBQ and chipotle chili and spice blend, the resulting shredded pork is a juicy filling for a healthier version of southwestern tacos.
Ponzu Pork Tacos with Mandarin Oranges
Calories: 330 | Carbs: 35
The Japanese ponzu sauce adds Asian-inspired flair to the traditionally Mexican taco. A little bit sweet, a little bit salty, with a touch of heat from red peppers, this recipe checks all the flavor boxes.
Diabetes-Friendly Chicken and Turkey Tacos
Sweet Potato and Spinach Chicken Tacos
Calories: 250 | Carbs: 28
Filled with fresh veggies, this savory chicken taco is incredibly filling and rich. Shredded chicken adds protein alongside nutrient-rich spinach, sweet potato, and fresh pico de gallo.
Turkey Tacos
Calories: 220 | Carbs: 19
Lean ground turkey makes a great base for a delicious taco meal. This turkey taco recipe has a spicy kick that can be adjusted by adding more or less jalapeño.
Diabetes-Friendly Seafood Tacos
Grilled Fish Tacos with Strawberry-Mango Salsa
Calories: 180 | Carbs: 21
This fish taco recipe becomes extra lively when you top if off with juicy strawberry-mango salsa. The sweet berries and tropical mango are the perfect combo for this festive dish.
Diabetes-Friendly Vegetarian/Veggie Tacos
Corn and Zucchini Tacos
Calories: 140 | Carbs: 26
Filled with colorful fresh vegetables, this taco is nutrient dense and contains fiber and a variety of nutrients. Flavored with chili powder and cumin, these zesty tacos are great if you are trying to eat more plant-based foods.
Taco Inspired Recipes
Shrimp and Avocado Taco Bowls
Calories: 250 | Carbs: 17
This low-carb taco bowl swaps tortilla shells for lettuce. Fresh and bright, it combines sweet pineapple with spicy jalapeño and creamy avocado for a dish that is satisfying and diabetes friendly.
Healthy Taco Dip
Calories: 50 | Carbs: 4
Lower in carbs, calories, and fat, this diabetes-friendly taco dip uses heart healthy fat like fresh avocado and is topped with reduced-fat cheese to make a delicious dip. Try serving it with fresh veggies for a tasty appetizer you’ll enjoy.
