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2025-01-26 1 Likes
If you love burritos but want a lighter, healthier twist on the classic California burrito, you’ve come to the right place. Packed with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients and loaded with flavor, this healthy California burrito will leave you feeling satisfied without the guilt. Let’s dive in!
What Makes a California Burrito?
The traditional California burrito is a San Diego staple, known for its stuffed goodness of carne asada, French fries, cheese, and guacamole, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. While it’s undeniably delicious, it’s also calorie-heavy. This version lightens things up while keeping the essence of the classic intact.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- For the filling:
- 1 lb lean steak (or chicken breast, or plant-based protein)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the "fries":
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into thin wedges
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings:
- 1 cup fresh guacamole
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (as a healthier sour cream substitute)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or baby spinach
- ½ cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional)
- Wrap:
- 4 large whole-grain tortillas
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss sweet potato wedges with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
- Cook the Protein:
- Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak with chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked to your preferred doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Assemble the Burrito:
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them pliable.
- Spread a generous layer of guacamole down the center of each tortilla.
- Layer with sweet potato fries, protein, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, cheese (if using), and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Fold the sides in and roll tightly.
- Optional Step – Toast the Burrito:
- Place the burrito seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to seal it and add a slight crisp.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the burrito in half and serve with extra pico de gallo or a side of your favorite salsa.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nutrient-packed: Sweet potatoes offer a dose of fiber and vitamin A, while the Greek yogurt provides protein and probiotics.
- Customizable: Swap steak for chicken, tofu, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Healthier twist: By replacing traditional fries with baked sweet potato wedges and using whole-grain tortillas, this burrito is both satisfying and nourishing.
Tips for Success:
- Meal Prep: Prepare the sweet potatoes and protein in advance for quick assembly during busy weekdays.
- Storage: Wrap the burritos tightly in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before eating.
This healthy California burrito recipe proves that comfort food can also be wholesome. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a satisfying lunch. Try it out and bring a taste of California to your kitchen!
Tags: California burrito, healthy wraps,
