Cinco de Mayo recipes with a healthy twist

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Claire Powell/AmesEats Flavors

Cut calories from traditional guacamole by using broccoli as the base. 

Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, is a holiday that celebrates Mexican heritage, traditions and culture in both the United States and Mexico. While traditional Mexican food is delicious, it may not contain the healthiest ingredients. Instead of sticking with customary dishes and appetizers, check out these Cinco de Mayo recipes with a healthy twist.

Broccomole

  • 3 cups chopped broccoli
  • 4 ounces fat-free cream cheese (goat cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt would also work)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions
  • 1 jalapeno, chopped, seeds removed
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

In a medium-sized pot, bring water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce heat and add the broccoli. Cook the broccoli until very soft (overcooked). Drain the broccoli and place in a food processor/blender. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until the mixture is a smooth consistency. Serve warm with tortilla chips or crackers.

Blueberry salsa

  • 2 cups fresh blueberries, chopped
  • 1 cup whole, fresh blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 fresh lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste

In a bowl, combine the blueberries, jalapeno pepper, red onion, bell pepper, lime juice and salt. Mix the ingredients until well-blended and serve cold.

Mexican black bean pizza with cauliflower crust

  • Cauliflower pizza crust:
  • 1/2 large cauliflower head
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 large egg, yolk removed
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees and coat a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Wash the cauliflower head and cut it in half. Once cut, continue to cut the cauliflower into quarters. Using a grater, grate the cauliflower until there is approximately 2 cups. Place the cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 6-8 minutes until thoroughly softened. Allow to cool, stirring occasionally to release the steam. Add the egg white, mozzarella cheese, oregano and garlic powder; mix well. Pour the mixture onto the cookie sheet, flatten and shape into a circle. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Pizza Toppings:

  • 1 15-ounce can black beans
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese
  • 1/2 cup red & green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onion
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons salsa
  • 1-2 medium avocados, sliced

Spread the salsa on top of the cauliflower crust. Sprinkle on the cheese. Top the pizza with black beans, peppers, green onions and fresh cilantro. Arrange the avocado slices on top of the ingredients. Turn on the oven broiler and broil for approximately 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.