Vegan Lentil Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce

These Vegan Lentil Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce are a flavorful, hearty, and satisfying plant-based twist on traditional tacos. The lentils are seasoned with bold spices and paired with a creamy, tangy avocado lime sauce that adds freshness and richness to every bite. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day you’re craving a healthy and delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Filling:

• Green or brown lentils – 1 cup, cooked

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

• Yellow onion – 1 small, diced

• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

• Ground cumin – 1 tsp

• Ground paprika – 1 tsp

• Chili powder – 1 tsp

• Salt – ½ tsp (or to taste)

• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

• Lime juice – 1 tbsp

• Vegetable broth – ¼ cup (optional, to adjust consistency)

For the Avocado Lime Sauce:

• Avocado – 1 ripe, peeled and pitted

• Lime juice – 2 tbsp (freshly squeezed)

• Garlic – 1 clove, minced

• Cilantro – A handful, chopped

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

• Salt – ¼ tsp

• Water – 2-3 tbsp (to achieve desired consistency)

For the Tacos:

• Corn tortillas – 8 small (or flour tortillas, if preferred)

• Shredded lettuce – 1 cup

• Diced tomatoes – 1 cup

• Red onion – ½ small, thinly sliced

• Fresh cilantro – For garnish

• Lime wedges – For serving

Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Filling

1. Cook the lentils: If you haven’t already, cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender (about 20-25 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Season the lentils: Add the cooked lentils to the pan and stir in the ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. If the mixture is too dry, add the vegetable broth to loosen it up. Let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Squeeze in the lime juice and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Avocado Lime Sauce

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

While the lentils and sauce are ready, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re soft and pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Place a warm tortilla on a plate and spoon a generous amount of the lentil filling into the center.

2. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and a dollop of the avocado lime sauce.

3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips and Variations

• Add heat: If you prefer more spice, add some jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce to the tacos.

• Toppings: Feel free to top the tacos with extra toppings like sliced avocado, salsa, or vegan sour cream.

• Other fillings: For a different twist, try adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.

These Vegan Lentil Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce are a fresh, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they’ll leave you feeling full and energized!