Mexican cuisine is a vibrant celebration of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes. But if you’re avoiding dairy, navigating traditional recipes can feel a bit tricky. The good news? Many classic Mexican dishes are naturally dairy-free or can be easily adapted without losing their authentic taste.
We love how versatile Mexican cooking is—it’s all about layering spices, using fresh produce, and letting the ingredients shine. From zesty salsas to hearty tacos and creamy (yet dairy-free) sauces, there’s no shortage of delicious options. Whether you’re lactose-intolerant, vegan, or just looking to try something new, these recipes will bring all the flavor without the dairy.
Dairy Free Mexican Recipes
Mexican cuisine is renowned for its incredible flavors, and the best part is that many beloved dishes can be made completely dairy-free without compromising on taste. We can enjoy these vibrant recipes while maintaining a lactose-free lifestyle. Let’s dive into some key steps and tips to create irresistible dairy-free Mexican recipes that burst with traditional authenticity.
1. Salsas and Dips: Dairy-Free Staples
In Mexican cooking, bold flavors often start with salsas and dips. These are naturally dairy-free and versatile, making them essential components of our recipes. Here’s what we need:
- Pico de Gallo: Finely chop 2 ripe tomatoes, ½ a small onion, 1 jalapeño (seeded for less heat), and 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro. Mix with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt.
- Guacamole: Mash 2 ripe avocados and mix with 1 teaspoon sea salt, lime juice from 1 lime, ⅓ cup diced red onion, 1 diced tomato, and minced jalapeño or garlic, to taste.
Pro Tip: Roasting tomatoes, onions, and chilies will elevate your salsa for smokier depths of flavor.
2. Dairy-Free Tacos: A Loaded Feast
Tacos are endlessly customizable. By eliminating cheese, we allow the natural flavors of the fillings to shine. Follow these steps for delicious, dairy-free tacos:
Ingredients for filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or plant-based meat
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
Instructions:
- Heat a skillet on medium. Add 1 tablespoon of oil, onions, and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the meat substitute, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in chili powder and bell peppers.
- Serve over warm corn tortillas and top with pico de gallo, guacamole, and shredded lettuce.
Variation Power: Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or roasted sweet potatoes for vegan alternatives.
3. Dairy-Free Sauces: Creamy Without Cream
We can create silky smooth sauces with a unique dairy-free twist. Use plant-based alternatives to achieve creaminess. Below is a recipe for cashew cream sauce, perfect for enchiladas or tacos.
Cashew Cream Sauce Recipe:
Ingredient | Measurement |
---|---|
Raw cashews (soaked) | 1 cup |
Water | ½ cup |
Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
Lime juice | 1 Tbsp |
- Begin by soaking the raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Blend them with the remaining ingredients until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and drizzle over your favorite Mexican dishes.
Insider Tip: Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
4. Crowd-Pleasing Desserts: Sweet Dairy-Free Treats
Mexican desserts can shine without dairy too. A classic, dairy-free arroz con leche (Mexican rice pudding), delivers comforting sweetness.
Ingredients for Rice Pudding:
- ½ cup white rice
- 4 cups unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Rinse rice, then combine it with almond milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Simmer on low, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
- Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with ground cinnamon.
Note: Coconut or oat milk also works wonderfully to achieve creaminess.
These dairy-free Mexican recipes are proof that flavor and authenticity never have to be sacrificed. From vibrant salsas to comforting desserts, we can enjoy every layer of this rich cuisine with confidence and satisfaction.
Ingredients
Creating dairy-free Mexican recipes requires the right combinations of substitutes, vibrant Mexican spices, and fresh produce. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help us build flavorful dishes without the need for dairy.
Common Dairy-Free Substitutes
When adapting Mexican cuisine to be dairy-free, we have plenty of ingredient options to maintain that creamy texture and richness without compromising the authentic flavors:
- Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water for a creamy, neutral base perfect for dairy-free sauces and dips.
- Coconut Milk: This is ideal for making thick, creamy bases that pair wonderfully with spices in dishes like mole or arroz con leche.
- Plant-Based Cheeses: Shreddable vegan cheese or crumbles act as an excellent substitute for queso fresco or cotija.
- Nutritional Yeast: A pantry staple for a cheese-like flavor in soups or toppings.
- Avocado: Its natural creaminess works beautifully for spreads, fillings, or guacamole.
Substitutes | Usage Examples | Notes |
---|---|---|
Cashew Cream | Sauces, dips, soups | Neutral flavor, easily seasoned |
Coconut Milk | Desserts, mole sauce | Adds subtle sweetness, thick texture |
Nutritional Yeast | Sauces, tacos, soups | Enhances savory, umami flavor |
Plant-Based Cheeses | Quesadillas, enchiladas, toppings | Melts or crumbles depending on type |
Avocado | Guacamole, spreads, toppings | Adds creamy texture and healthy fats |
Essential Mexican Spices And Herbs
The foundation of Mexican cuisine lies in its bold spices and fragrant herbs. These ingredients bring the dishes to life and are, fortunately, naturally dairy-free. Keep these essentials stocked:
- Cumin: Its warm, earthy aroma defines many dishes, from beans to chili.
- Chili Powder: A blend of dried chilies, this spice adds heat and depth.
- Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smoky element in marinades or roasted vegetables.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Boost flavor without added effort.
- Oregano (Mexican): Different from Mediterranean oregano, this herb offers a citrusy brightness.
- Cilantro: A fresh herb often used as a garnish or topping.
- Epazote: Traditional in bean dishes, it also enhances flavor and digestion.
Spices & Herbs | Common Uses | Flavor Profile |
---|---|---|
Cumin | Stews, beans, marinades | Warm, nutty, earthy |
Chili Powder | Tacos, chili, sauces | Spicy, slightly smoky |
Smoked Paprika | Roasted veggies, soups, sauces | Sweet and smoky |
Mexican Oregano | Salsas, beans, braises | Citrusy, slightly bitter |
Cilantro | Toppings, salads, garnishes | Bright, fresh, citrusy |
Epazote | Beans, soups | Pungent and earthy |
Fresh Produce And Proteins
- Fresh Vegetables: Tomatoes, onions, garlic, poblanos, jalapeños, and bell peppers bring vibrancy and depth to many recipes, particularly salsas and stews.
- Avocados: Whether used in guacamole, as a topping, or blended for a creamy sauce, they’re a star ingredient.
- Legumes: Pinto beans, black beans, and chickpeas provide hearty protein in tacos, burritos, or salads.
- Corn: Used fresh for salsas or roasted, and dried for tortillas or tamales.
- Proteins: Chicken, pork, shrimp, or plant-based ground meat are versatile options.
Fresh Ingredients | Usage | Notes |
---|---|---|
Tomatoes | Salsas, sauces, stews | Opt for ripe varieties |
Avocados | Guacamole, sauces, toppings | Choose ripe and creamy |
Jalapeños | Salsas, marinades, soups | Control heat by deseeding |
Corn | Tortillas, tamales, salads | Use fresh or dried |
Beans | Tacos, burritos, side dishes | High-protein option |
Shrimp/Chicken | Tacos, enchiladas, fajitas | Marinate for extra flavor |
Tools And Equipment
To craft flavorful and authentic dairy-free Mexican recipes, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Let’s ensure our kitchen setup is equipped with the necessary items for effortless, delicious cooking.
Kitchen Essentials For Mexican Cooking
Here are the foundational tools every home cook needs to prepare dairy-free Mexican dishes efficiently and authentically:
- Cutting Board – A sturdy, non-slip cutting board is crucial for chopping fresh produce like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
- Chef’s Knife – A sharp chef’s knife ensures precision when slicing vegetables, meats, or herbs.
- Blender or Food Processor – Great for making creamy dairy-free sauces (like cashew cream) or blending salsas to the perfect consistency.
- Mixing Bowls – Multi-sized bowls are needed for preparing and storing ingredients such as pico de gallo, guacamole, or spice mixes.
- Cast Iron Skillet – Essential for achieving authentic flavors in tacos, fajitas, or toasted tortillas. Cast iron retains heat well and adds a slight char to enhance the taste.
- Saucepan – A small, non-stick saucepan is perfect for simmering arroz con leche or heating dairy-free refried beans.
- Spatula and Tongs – Use a flexible spatula for flipping, stirring, or spreading, and tongs for handling tortillas or grilled fillings.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for both liquid and dry ingredients, which is especially important when working with substitutions like nutritional yeast or plant-based milk.
Specialty Tools For Dairy Free Adjustments
Adapting recipes to be dairy-free sometimes requires tools that help us achieve creamy textures and traditional flavors without dairy. Here’s what we recommend:
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
High-Speed Blender | Ideal for achieving smooth and creamy textures in cashew cream, almond crema, or coconut-based sauces. |
Nut Milk Bag | Used for straining homemade nut milks or cashew-based creams for a perfect dairy-free consistency. |
Immersion Blender | Handy for blending soups, such as roasted poblano soup, directly in the pot—convenient and mess-free. |
Tortilla Press | Used to make authentic fresh corn tortillas, which pair wonderfully with dairy-free fillings. |
Mandoline Slicer | Ensures uniform slices of vegetables like zucchini or radishes for dairy-free nachos or taco toppings. |
With these tools at hand, we can confidently recreate the comfort and vibrancy of Mexican cuisine without missing out on creamy textures or bold, authentic flavors.
Directions
Creating dairy-free Mexican recipes is all about balancing vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and clever substitutions. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure each dish comes together beautifully.
Prep
- Gather ingredients: Ensure all fresh produce, proteins, and dried spices like cumin, chili powder, and coriander are measured and prepped before starting. Chop tomatoes, onions, and leafy herbs finely for salsas.
- Soak cashews (if making cashew cream): Place 1 cup of raw cashews in hot water for 30 minutes or overnight in room temp water for the smoothest blending.
- Prepare tortillas (if making homemade): Combine 2 cups of masa harina with 1 1/2 cups of water and knead into a soft dough. Use a tortilla press to flatten and set aside under a damp cloth.
- Set up your equipment: Preheat your cast iron skillet for grilling tortillas or proteins, and have a blender or food processor ready for sauces.
Cook
Now that we’ve prepped our ingredients and tools, it’s time to bring these dairy-free Mexican recipes to life. Cooking involves combining bold spices, fresh produce, and hearty proteins to build layers of flavor. Let’s take this step-by-step.
Cooking Proteins
Protein is a cornerstone of many Mexican dishes, and it plays a key role in delivering that satisfying bite. Whether you’re using plant-based proteins or traditional options, the cooking technique makes all the difference.
- For Chicken or Beef:
Coat the meat with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cook the meat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for chicken or 145°F for beef. Let it rest for five minutes before slicing.
- For Plant-Based Proteins (Tofu or Tempeh):
Press the tofu to remove extra moisture, then crumble or slice into strips. Marinate it in a mix of soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili powder for 15 minutes. Sear in a pan over medium-high heat with a teaspoon of oil until golden and slightly crisp.
- For Shrimp:
Toss shrimp with a sprinkle of smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder. Heat a skillet with oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and pink.
Protein Type | Cooking Temperature | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Chicken Breast/Thighs | 165°F | 5-6 minutes per side |
Beef (Steak, Strips) | 145°F | 3-4 minutes per side |
Shrimp | Fully opaque | 2-3 minutes per side |
Tofu/Tempeh | Golden brown | 6-8 minutes |
Preparing Side Dishes Like Rice And Beans
No Mexican meal is complete without arroz or frijoles. These dairy-free sides elevate the meal and soak up all the delicious flavors from your mains.
- Mexican-Style Rice:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a saucepan, then sauté 1 cup of rinsed rice until lightly toasted. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1½ cups of vegetable broth, a sprinkle of cumin, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Refried Beans:
Mash 2 cups of cooked pinto or black beans with the back of a spoon. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté minced garlic and onion until fragrant. Stir in the mashed beans, ½ cup of vegetable broth, a pinch of salt, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.
- Quick Tip: Add a squeeze of lime over the rice and beans before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
Assembling Tacos, Enchiladas, Or Bowls
Now for the fun part! Assembling allows us to personalize each dish while showcasing the vibrant colors and toppings in all their glory.
- For Tacos:
Warm the tortillas on a skillet for 20-30 seconds per side. Place a generous scoop of cooked protein in the center. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, homemade guacamole, and a drizzle of cashew cream sauce.
- For Enchiladas:
Spread a thin layer of warm enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each corn tortilla with protein, rice, and beans before rolling tightly. Place them seam-side down in the dish and cover with enchilada sauce. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes.
- For Bowls:
Layer the base with Mexican rice and beans. Add your cooked protein, pico de gallo, guacamole, and a dollop of dairy-free crema. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a wedge of lime.
Assemble
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble your dairy-free Mexican masterpiece. Whether it’s tacos, enchiladas, or bowls, proper assembly ensures a balance of flavors, textures, and presentation. Follow these tips to build and garnish expertly crafted dishes.
Building Dairy-Free Tacos or Enchiladas
Start by layering each element strategically to create bold and harmonious flavors:
- For Tacos:
- Begin with warm homemade or store-bought dairy-free tortillas. Heat them slightly on a preheated skillet for pliability.
- Add your protein base: seasoned grilled chicken, spiced ground beef, or plant-based crumbles for a vegan option.
- Layer on freshly prepared toppings like pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of our creamy cashew sauce.
- For Enchiladas:
- Use corn tortillas, lightly softened by dipping in warm oil or enchilada sauce.
- Place the fillings – whether it’s roasted veggies, seasoned tofu, or shredded chicken – in the center of each tortilla.
- Roll tightly and arrange seam-side down in an oven-safe dish with a base layer of dairy-free enchilada sauce.
- Cover with more sauce and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until warmed through.
Dish | Base | Filling Idea | Quick Tip |
---|---|---|---|
Tacos | Soft tortillas | Proteins and vegetables | Heat tortillas for a pliable, fresh taste |
Enchiladas | Corn tortillas + sauce | Cooked proteins & beans | Coat tortillas fully to prevent cracking during assembly |
Garnishing Tips to Enhance Flavors
Garnishes are the finishing touch that ties the dish together. Here’s how to enhance your dairy-free Mexican recipes:
- Citrus Finish: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over tacos, enchiladas, or bowls to brighten flavors.
- Herbal Pop: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro, a quintessential herb in Mexican cuisine, for a fragrant touch.
- Crisp Textures: Top with thinly sliced radishes or homemade dairy-free tortilla strips for crunch.
- Creamy Notes: Drizzle our cashew cream sauce or a chilled avocado crema for richness.
- Heat Lovers: Dust with chili powder or add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
For any recipe, remember: the right garnish enhances both the flavor and visual appeal. Design each plate as if it’s a canvas of exciting, vibrant, and dairy-free Mexican cuisine.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Dairy-free Mexican recipes can be easily prepared ahead of time, letting us enjoy bold flavors while saving time during busy schedules. From creamy cashew sauces to zesty salsas, prepping in advance ensures quick and delicious meals.
Preparing Sauces And Salsas In Advance
Preparing the essential sauces and salsas ahead of time allows us to focus on assembling and enjoying our dishes. Here’s how to make them ahead:
- Salsas: Make fresh salsas like pico de gallo or traditional red salsa 1–2 days beforehand. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their vibrant flavors.
- Cashew Cream Sauce: Blend and refrigerate this dairy-free alternative at least a day in advance. The flavors develop further overnight, enhancing its creamy, rich taste.
- Guacamole: Prepare guacamole a few hours before serving to maintain its bright green color. Add extra lime juice and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
- Tomatillo Sauce: Roast tomatillos and blend them with spices 1–2 days before use. Store in a sealed jar for optimum freshness.
Pro Tip: Label containers with their prepared date to ensure the highest quality and freshness when serving.
Storing And Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to preserving the flavors of our dairy-free Mexican recipes. Below are practical tips for storing and reheating components:
Food Item | Storage Method | Reheating Instructions |
---|---|---|
Tortillas | Store in a zip-top bag or foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. | Warm in a skillet for 30 seconds on each side for softness. |
Rice & Beans | Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. | Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water. |
Cashew Cream Sauce | Refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. | Stir thoroughly; add a splash of water if it thickens. |
Guacamole | Store in a container with plastic wrap pressed directly on top. | Serve cold; avoid reheating to maintain texture and color. |
- Always use microwave-safe dishes for reheating components.
- Reheat proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tempeh on low heat to prevent dryness.
- For enchiladas or tacos, assemble them fresh but use pre-prepped fillings, keeping dishes flavorful and texturally appealing.
Serving Suggestions
Crafting dairy-free Mexican recipes is only half the fun; serving them in a delicious and appealing way truly rounds out the experience. Let’s explore some exciting ideas to make your meal unforgettable.
Pairing With Side Dishes
No Mexican-inspired meal is complete without flavorful sides that complement the main star. Below are some dairy-free side dish ideas to enhance your spread:
- Mexican-Style Cauliflower Rice: Swap traditional rice with cauliflower rice fried in olive oil, garlic, and onion. Season it with cumin, paprika, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
- Refried Black Beans or Pinto Beans: Skip the dairy-laden lard and use a healthy fat like coconut oil to fry mashed beans. Add spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, and a hint of garlic for depth.
- Elote-Style Grilled Corn: Instead of traditional cheese-coated elotes, brush char-grilled corn with cashew cream, sprinkle chili powder, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Fresh Garden Salad with Avocado Dressing: Toss together crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes. Drizzle with a smooth avocado-lime dressing made with fresh cilantro and olive oil.
- Chips & Dips Platter: Pair homemade tortilla chips with dairy-free salsas such as pico de gallo, creamy guacamole, and smoky charred tomatillo salsa.
Here’s a quick table summarizing these options:
Side Dish | Key Ingredients | Dairy-Free Tip |
---|---|---|
Mexican-Style Cauliflower Rice | Cauliflower, olive oil, garlic, lime | Use fresh lime for tanginess instead of butter sauce. |
Refried Beans | Black or pinto beans, coconut oil, spices | Skip lard; opt for coconut oil or olive oil. |
Elote-Style Grilled Corn | Corn, cashew cream, chili powder, cilantro | Swap cheese for creamy cashew-based sauce. |
Avocado Salad Dressing | Avocado, lime, olive oil, herbs | Blend avocado instead of using dairy cream. |
Chips & Salsas | Tortilla chips, guacamole, pico de gallo | Emphasize creamy dips without dairy. |
Each of these dishes adds bold flavors while staying true to a dairy-free lifestyle.
Recommended Dairy Free Dessert Ideas
End your Mexican feast on a sweet note with these indulgent yet dairy-free dessert inspirations:
- Coconut Milk Arroz Con Leche: Transform a traditional favorite into a dairy-free marvel. Use full-fat coconut milk, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla to create creamy rice pudding.
- Vegan Mexican Chocolate Mousse: Whip up a rich and velvety dessert with cacao powder, avocado, maple syrup, and a dash of chili powder for a hint of spice.
- Churros with Coconut Sugar: Prepare warm, crispy churros coated in coconut sugar. Dip them in a dairy-free chocolate sauce made with almond milk and dark chocolate.
- Mango and Chili Sorbet: Blend fresh mangoes with lime juice, chili powder, and a splash of water. Freeze for a refreshing dessert that’s naturally free of dairy.
- Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake: Use almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk to recreate this classic layered dish without the dairy.
These desserts combine authentic Mexican flavors with innovative techniques to ensure they’re as satisfying as their traditional counterparts.
Conclusion
Mexican cuisine offers an incredible world of flavors that’s easy to enjoy without dairy. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create dishes that are just as satisfying and authentic as their traditional counterparts. From vibrant salsas to creamy dairy-free sauces and indulgent desserts, there’s no shortage of options to explore.
By embracing fresh produce, bold spices, and versatile substitutes, we can craft meals that cater to any dietary preference without sacrificing taste. Whether it’s weeknight tacos or a festive spread, dairy-free Mexican recipes bring everyone to the table to savor the richness of this beloved cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Mexican cuisine naturally adaptable for dairy-free diets?
Mexican cuisine often relies on fresh ingredients, bold spices, and versatile staples like beans, rice, salsas, and guacamole, many of which are naturally dairy-free. Even creamy textures can be achieved using plant-based substitutes like cashew cream or avocado.
What are some popular dairy-free substitutes for Mexican recipes?
Common dairy-free substitutes include cashew cream, coconut milk, plant-based cheeses, nutritional yeast, and avocado. These alternatives can replicate creaminess and flavor without the need for dairy.
Can traditional Mexican dishes still taste authentic without dairy?
Yes! By using the right spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime, and chili powder, dairy-free Mexican dishes can stay authentic and flavorful without compromising taste.
What are the best tools for making dairy-free Mexican recipes?
Essential tools include a sturdy cutting board, chef’s knife, blender or food processor, and cast iron skillet. Specialty items like a high-speed blender, tortilla press, or nut milk bag help create creamy textures and homemade tortillas.
How can I prepare make-ahead dairy-free Mexican meals?
Prepare key components like salsas, cashew cream, guacamole, and even cooked proteins in advance. Store them properly in airtight containers and reheat when needed for quick meal assembly.
What are some easy dairy-free Mexican recipes for beginners?
Start with simple recipes like pico de gallo, guacamole, tacos with plant-based fillings, or a creamy cashew sauce. These dishes are easy to make and provide a great introduction to dairy-free Mexican cooking.
How do I achieve creaminess in dairy-free Mexican dishes?
Use plant-based ingredients like cashew cream, avocado, or coconut milk to replicate creamy textures. These alternatives blend well with Mexican spices and enhance the dishes’ flavors.
Are there dairy-free Mexican desserts I can make?
Yes! Try coconut milk arroz con leche, vegan Mexican chocolate mousse, mango and chili sorbet, or churros with coconut sugar to enjoy sweet, dairy-free Mexican treats.
What are the best side dishes to serve with dairy-free Mexican meals?
Great dairy-free sides include Mexican-style cauliflower rice, refried beans, elote-style grilled corn, or a fresh avocado dressing salad. These complement the main dishes beautifully.
Can dairy-free Mexican food cater to vegans and vegetarians?
Absolutely! Many Mexican dishes are customizable and pair perfectly with plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or legumes. Vegan recipes like guacamole, salsas, and vegetable tacos are crowd-pleasers.