Healthy Taco Seasoning Recipe (Easy and Homemade) (2024)

February 21, 2024 by Jodie Van Huysen 1 Comment

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I love making my own homemade seasoning blends and this healthy taco seasoning recipe is perfect for Mexican-inspired dishes. For one, it is more cost effective, but more than anything it’s usually a healthier option. Plus I have an obsession with making food from scratch and staying out of the grocery store as much as possible, so a good homemade seasoning is a must. So here is a super easy taco seasoning recipe that will go fantastic with whatever you are making for your next taco night!

Healthy Taco Seasoning Recipe (Easy and Homemade) (1)

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Ingredients

I use dried ingredients for all of the spices listed below for this low sodium taco seasoning.

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Salt to taste

I never include salt in the seasonings that I make. I just add it when cooking to reach the flavor I’d like. But you can always add 1/2 teaspoon or so of salt to your blend if you choose. Adjust the quantities of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Enjoy this healthy taco seasoning for an easy recipe that you can whip up quickly.

Breakdown of Ingredients

It’s important to me to know where my ingredients come from, so for this healthy homemade taco seasoning recipe, I have included a breakdown for each ingredient, naming it’s health benefits and sourcing options.

Chili Powder

Health Benefits: Contains antioxidants, can aid in digestion, and may help reduce inflammation.
Taste Profile: Earthy, slightly spicy.
Where to Source: You can find chili powder in most grocery stores or make your own by grinding dried chili peppers. Chili peppers are typically grown in warmer climates.

Ground Cumin

Health Benefits: Rich in iron, may improve digestion, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Taste Profile: Warm, slightly nutty.
Where to Source: Available in the spice section of grocery stores or online spice retailers. Cumin is grown primarily outside of the US.

Paprika

Health Benefits: Good source of vitamin A, contains antioxidants, and may promote healthy digestion.
Taste Profile: Mild, slightly sweet or smoky depending on the variety (sweet, smoked, or hot).
Where to Source: Commonly found in grocery stores. Paprika is grown in warmer regions, but could be done in a greenhouse if you live in a colder zone.

Garlic Powder

Health Benefits: Has antibacterial properties, may help lower cholesterol, and contains antioxidants.
Taste Profile: Intensely garlicky.
Where to Source: Available in most grocery stores or you can make your own by drying and grinding garlic cloves.

Onion Powder

Health Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may help regulate blood sugar, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Taste Profile: Mild onion flavor.
Where to Source: Sold in the spice aisle of most grocery stores or you can make your own by dehydrating and grinding onions.

Dried Oregano

Health Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, may have antimicrobial properties, and can aid digestion.
Taste Profile: Earthy, slightly bitter, and aromatic.
Where to Source: Available in the spice section of grocery stores or from specialty spice shops. You can also grow oregano in your backyard garden. It’s hearty and easy!

Black Pepper

Health Benefits: May improve digestion, acts as an antioxidant, and may enhance nutrient absorption.
Taste Profile: Sharp and pungent.
Where to Source: Widely available in grocery stores, supermarkets, or online. Peppercorns are mostly grown in tropical regions.

Salt

Health Benefits: Necessary for electrolyte balance, nerve function, and fluid regulation in the body. However, use in moderation.
Taste Profile: Enhances other flavors and adds a savory element.
Where to Source: Opt for sea salt or Himalayan pink salt for additional minerals and get from the grocery store.

Red Pepper Flakes(Optional)

Health Benefits: Contains capsaicin which may boost metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Taste Profile: Hot and fiery.
Where to Source: Sold in most grocery stores or you can make your own by drying and crushing red chili peppers.

Cayenne Pepper (Optional)

Health Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which has been shown to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. Has anti-inflammatory properties and contains vitamins A, E, C, and several B vitamins, as well as minerals like potassium, manganese, and magnesium.
Taste Profile: Hot and fiery.
Where to Source: Sold in most grocery stores or you can make your own by drying and grinding cayenne pepper.

Healthy Taco Seasoning Recipe (Easy and Homemade) (2)

What’s the Problem with Store-bought Taco Seasoning Mixes?

Store-bought packets of seasoning usually contain artificial ingredients and preservatives. Sometimes packets of taco seasoning can contain gluten and other allergens that really don’t need to be there. You never really know what’s in a spice mix when you buy from the store. This recipe includes real spices that are thoughtfully sourced.

Storage

It’s best to store your spices in a dark place to be sure they stay as fresh as possible. Store this blend in an airtight container. These are the spice jars that I use for my blends.