Quick Mexican Meals for Busy Weeknights Under 30 Minutes

Quick Mexican food for everyday

One myth about Mexican cooking is that it requires hours. Whilst some dishes like mole need time, most everyday Mexican food is prepared in minutes.

Quesadillas (10 minutes)

Heat a tortilla, add grated cheese, fold and cook 2 minutes per side. Optional fillings: shredded chicken, black beans, mushrooms, spinach, chipotle.

Express chilaquiles (15 minutes)

Cut old tortillas into triangles, fry until crisp (or use tortilla crisps). Heat salsa in a pan, add crisps, cook 2-3 minutes. Top with feta, soured cream, onion, coriander and a fried egg.

Black bean tacos (15 minutes)

Heat tinned black beans with cumin, garlic powder and chipotle. Lightly mash. Serve in warm tortillas with avocado, coriander and lime. Complete vegetarian dinner: under £2 for two.

Burrito bowl (20 minutes)

Microwave rice, saute chicken strips with cumin and chilli. Bowl: rice, chicken, black beans, sweetcorn, lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, soured cream.

Huevos rancheros (15 minutes)

Heat tomato salsa with chilli in a pan. Crack 2-4 eggs directly into the salsa. Cover and cook 5-7 minutes. Serve with warm tortillas, beans and avocado.

Loaded nachos (15 minutes)

Spread tortilla crisps on a baking tray. Top with refried beans, grated cheddar, jalapenos, sweetcorn. Grill at 200°C for 5-8 minutes. Top with guacamole, soured cream and pico de gallo.

With a well-stocked pantry (tinned beans, tortillas, chipotle, basic spices), you can have Mexican dinner on the table any night of the week.