Healthy Cinco de Mayo Swaps That Still Bring the Flavor

Cinco de Mayo is the perfect reason to celebrate with bold flavors, festive bites, and good company. But if you're looking to keep things a little lighter this year, or simply want to sneak in more protein and plants without sacrificing taste, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re hosting or just showing up hungry, here are simple ways to upgrade your Cinco de Mayo spread.

1. Start with a Smarter Base

Tacos, quesadillas, tostadas — they all start with some kind of base. Swapping your usual tortillas for OA Gourmet’s cauliflower-based Sandwich Slices instantly ups the nutrition:

• High in protein

• Grain-free and gluten-free

• Made with real, clean ingredients

• Each serving of Sandwich Slices = 2 full servings of vegetables
  

You can use them for taco-style wraps, crisp them up into tostadas, or fold them with cheese for a quick quesadilla. However you slice it (pun intended), it’s an easy way to make every bite count.

2. Choose Protein-Packed Fillings

Amp up your tacos, nachos, and bowls with proteins that are flavorful and satisfying. Some fiesta-friendly options:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp with a chili-lime marinade

• Instant Pot carnitas or shredded beef with cumin and garlic

• Spiced ground turkey with onions and bell peppers

• Black beans and quinoa for a fiber-filled, plant-based option

Pro tip: Cook your protein in advance and keep it warm in a slow cooker for easy serving.

3. Sneaky (and Not-So-Sneaky) Ways to Add Veggies

Let’s be real — veggies don’t have to be boring. These easy upgrades sneak in more plants and make your spread more exciting:

• Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or riced cauliflower to taco fillings

• Use bell pepper halves or zucchini slices as “chips” for dipping

• Top tacos with cabbage slaw for extra crunch and fiber

And don’t forget — our Sandwich Slices are made with cauliflower and give you a full serving of veggies per slice. You’re adding more plants without even thinking about it.

4. Smarter Sides & Sauces

Side dishes and toppings can make or break a meal — here’s how to keep them flavorful and nutrient-packed:

• Swap chips for veggie dippers like jicama, cucumber, or carrots

• Make a high-protein dip using Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, and taco seasoning

• Go easy on the sour cream — or blend it with Greek yogurt for a protein boost

Final Thoughts

Cinco de Mayo should be fun, not restrictive. A few smart swaps — like OA Gourmet Sandwich Slices instead of tortillas, or veggies hidden in your fillings — let you enjoy all the flavor and festivity with more protein, more plants, and zero stress.

Shop Sandwich Slices