Tacos & Cinco de Mayo!

By: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a festive spread of delectable delights that capture the essence of Mexican cuisine, all while ensuring a light and flavorful experience for you and your loved ones at home. Dive into a world of vibrant flavors featuring ingredients like zesty cilantro, creamy avocado, succulent mango, crisp fresh corn, fiery jalapenos, and savory fish.

Check out these Tasty Tips:

• Opt for corn tortillas as a wholesome alternative to flour, not only cutting down on calories but also elevating your dish with the goodness of whole grains.
• Harness the versatility of fresh avocados, seamlessly transitioning from tacos to dips and refreshing salads, all while indulging in nourishing heart-healthy fats.
• Delight in the tropical sweetness of mango, hailed as one of the world’s most beloved fruits, offering a burst of flavor that works effortlessly with both sweet and savory dishes.
• Embrace the nutritional powerhouse of black beans, a budget-friendly protein source brimming with fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein, making them a stellar addition to your weekly menu.
• Elevate your grilled meats-be it succulent pork loin chops, tender chicken, or flaky fish-with the vibrant freshness of homemade salsa, adding a burst of tangy goodness that complements and enhances every savory bite.

Zesty Chicken Tacos with Avocado Dressing

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 20 minutes

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Corn Tortillas, 8 to 10
• ½ minced red onion

Avocado Dressing:

• ¼ cup prepared guacamole
• ¼ cup light mayonnaise
• ½ lime, juiced
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Directions:

1. In a glass dish or food safe plastic bag add chicken and all of the spices, lime juice and oil. Mix well and rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan and then add the chicken. Cook for 12 to 14 minutes, turning halfway through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine guacamole, mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Stack tortillas on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel and warm through.
6. Assemble tacos with chicken, minced onion and avocado dressing.

Recipe by Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA