What is a typical characteristic of a Traditional Latino American diet?

A typical characteristic of a Traditional Latino American diet includes heavily spiced food. This culinary style emphasizes the use of various spices and herbs to enhance flavor, which is a hallmark of Latino cuisine. Ingredients such as cumin, cilantro, chili peppers, garlic, and onions are commonly used, contributing to vibrant and complex flavor profiles that define many traditional dishes in this cultural diet.

While some Latino cuisines include vegetarian dishes, the overall diet is not primarily vegetarian as many dishes feature meats, legumes, and grains. The perception that Latino American diets are low in fats may not accurately reflect traditional foods, which can include moderate amounts of fats, particularly from sources like avocados and olive oil. Additionally, although dairy is used in certain aspects of Latino cooking, such as cheese and yogurt, the diet is not predominantly focused on dairy products. Thus, the focus on heaviness of spices stands out as a defining characteristic of this cuisine.