Nopales Rellenos
Nopales Rellenos is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of tender, grilled cactus paddles (nopales) stuffed with a savory filling, most commonly a mixture of cheese, ground meat, or picadillo. The stuffed nopales are often wrapped in bacon or egg batter and then baked or fried. It's a beloved staple in central and western Mexico, showcasing the versatile and iconic nopal cactus.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced source of protein from the filling and healthy fats if prepared with cheese or lean meat, while the nopal itself is low in carbohydrates and calories. It's an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and key minerals like potassium and magnesium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 8 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin K | 12 mcg |
| Potassium | 280 mg |
| Magnesium | 35 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 mcg |
Per 1 stuffed nopal paddle (approx. 150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The nopal cactus is a culturally significant food in Mexico, featured on the national coat of arms and celebrated for its resilience and nutritional benefits. Nutritionally, nopales are prized for their high soluble fiber content, which may help regulate blood sugar levels.
