Healthy Mexican Snacks

This is my sort of snack, my friends, very much like a great appetizer or dessert. I can't really decide which category to place these, so I'm placing them into both of them. They are fresh and healthy and all natural and are at home on an appetizer platter or on the dessert table.

They're Mexican Snacks! More Mexican style in spirit, and they are quite delicious. Skip the tortilla chips and Mexican candy next time and go for fresh fruit instead.

You might not think of chili peppers for dessert, but they are actually an excellent addition, especially when you want something crunchy and light.

The Recipe Inspiration

These were inspired by a classic Mexican combination - Cucumbers with Chili and Lime. We've been to Mexico several times and have enjoyed different variations of these types of authentic, tasty Mexican snacks, served in cups or on tiny skewers, always dusted with chili powder, though the ingredients vary slightly.

You can easily include other fruits, like pineapple, mango, or avocado - just be sure to go with your favorite flavor preferences.

It is quite a bit like a salad skewer, a tasty single bite with just a bit of zing from the tangy lime juice and the chili powder sprinkling. If I had it my way, I would have dashed on a bit of ghost pepper powder or Moruga powder - Reaper? Yes!

But that would have been a little too hot for Patty, so I used chile piquin, though a more common cayenne powder or paprika would do.

Note that the serrano peppers aren't on this particular skewer. I left them on the plate so that the person eating one could elect whether or not to skewer a pepper slice.

Whoever left one off meant more for me! Serranos are a wonderful addition here, though if you find them too spicy, try jalapeno peppers instead, or even milder peppers to your own preference.

Just look at how juicy these babies are?

Let's talk about how we make them, shall we?

Ingredients Needed

• ¼ medium sized watermelon
• 1 jicama peeled
• 1 medium cucumber
• 2-3 Serrano peppers chopped into rings - optional, or use jalapenos for a bit milder
• Juice from 2-3 limes as needed
• Chili powder for dusting
• Splash of hot sauce, if desired

How to Make These Healthy Mexican Street Snacks - the Recipe Method

1. Scoop the watermelon into tiny balls. I used a ¼ teaspoon measuring spoon for mine. Set them into a large mixing bowl.
2. Chop the jicama into small squares roughly the same width as the watermelon balls. Set into the mixing bowl.
3. Slice the cucumber into rings about ¼ inch thick, then quarter them. Into the mixing bowl they go.
4. Add lime juice and toss to coat.
5. Spear a watermelon ball, a slice of jicama, and a couple of cucumber quarters on toothpicks. Have fun and vary up the order.
6. Set onto a serving plate and dust with chili powder.
7. Top with sliced serrano peppers and serve.

That's it, my friends! These are a wonderful and flavorful healthy Mexican snack with a focus on fresh fruit. Serve them up anytime! Next time you find yourself reaching for corn chips, reach for these instead. I hope you enjoy them.

Try Some of My Other Popular Snack and Appetizer Recipes

• Chili and Lime Cucumbers
• Jalapeno Bottle Caps (Breaded and Fried Jalapeno Pepper Slices)
• The Ultimate Texas Nachos
• Creamy-Crunchy Jalapeno Popper Dip
• Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
• Spicy Beef Jerky
• Homemade Spicy Snack Mix
• Homemade Chamoy Sauce

If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you'll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don't forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I'll be sure to share! Thanks! -- Mike H.