When times are tough, fine dining can put a burden on your wallet and the comfort foods you crave can put a burden on your waistline. Where to find a sensible meal at a lower price? Believe it or not, a Mexican fast food chain could have just what you’re looking for. Order right and you could come out of this recession looking and feeling better than you did going in!

I like Mexican restaurants because I know I can get a healthy meal full of veggies and protein. The quality and prices may differ at various chains, but eat-right strategies are the same across the board. Whether you sit down, take it home, or eat in your car, follow these easy guidelines for dining at a few of my favorite chains: Chipotle, Chili’s, and Baja Fresh.

1. Just because it’s a salad doesn’t mean it’s healthy!

Be on the lookout for sabotage toppings including cheese, tortilla strips, “fried” meats, excess dressing, and taco bowls. These extras can add nearly 800 calories to your meal — yikes!

2. Just because tortillas are flat and thin doesn’t mean they’re low-carb or low-cal.

Eliminate tortillas from your order altogether and save between 300 and 400 calories! Who needs them anyway with all the delicious fillings? Just use a fork and knife.

3. Just because it comes with “the works” doesn’t mean you have to order it that way.

Adding guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and rice to your burritos or tacos will do some serious damage to your diet. Skip these extras and save yourself 500 calories and 30 grams of fat!

4. Just because they give you free chips doesn’t mean you have to eat them!

Tortilla chips are not your friend. They’re salty and fried and taste so good that stopping at a handful is practically impossible. Order a healthy appetizer to pick on instead and save 470 calories and 40 grams of fat!

5. When all else fails and you’re not sure what to eat, order off the children’s menu.

Automatic portion control with all the taste — ‘nuff said.