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Easy Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Street Tacos with Black Beans

vegetarian street tacos with black beans - featured image

These vegetarian street tacos are quick, easy, and packed with smoky, tangy flavors. Featuring a black bean filling with simple spices and fresh toppings, they make a satisfying meatless meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • 6 small corn tortillas, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage or coleslaw mix
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
  • Pickled red onions (optional)
  • Queso fresco or crumbled feta (optional)
  • Extra lime wedges for serving
  • For quick pickled red onions (optional):
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the quick pickled onions (if using): In a small bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add thinly sliced red onions and press down to submerge. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Make the black bean filling: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add drained black beans, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir gently and cook for 3-4 minutes, lightly mashing some beans for texture.
  4. Turn off heat and squeeze fresh lime juice into the bean mixture. Stir and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Warm the tortillas: Heat a dry skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Warm each tortilla for 20-30 seconds per side until soft and pliable with slight char marks. Keep warm wrapped in a towel.
  6. Assemble the tacos: Spoon black bean filling onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, pickled onions, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and cheese if using.
  7. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges.

Notes

If black beans seem dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth while cooking. Use fresh lime juice at the end to brighten flavors. Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or grill pan for best texture. Quick pickled onions add a fresh zing but are optional. For vegan version, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegetarian tacos, black bean tacos, meatless meals, easy dinner, street tacos, quick recipe, healthy tacos