Vegetarian Taco Skillet

The Vegetarian Taco Skillet is a dish that brings me back to cozy evenings spent with friends and family. I remember one particular night when I decided to whip up a quick dinner after a long day at work. The scent of sautéed vegetables filled the kitchen, mingling beautifully with the spices, and I couldn’t help but feel excited about the meal I was preparing. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal that’s not only delicious but also simple to make. As the ingredients came together, I thought about how this dish could easily be adapted to fit anyone’s taste. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more meatless meals to your week, this Vegetarian Taco Skillet has you covered. It’s colorful, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a fun gathering with friends. So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegetarian Taco Skillet

Creating the perfect Vegetarian Taco Skillet starts with the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in delivering vibrant flavors and textures. The key players are the quinoa, which serves as a hearty base, and the black beans, packed with protein. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions add color and crunch, while spices bring warmth and depth.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – The essential fat for sautéing, providing a rich flavor and mouthfeel.
• 1 onion – Chopped to add a sweet, savory base to the skillet.
• 1 red bell pepper – Adds vibrant color and sweetness. Make sure it’s stemmed and seeds removed.
• 3 cloves garlic – Chopped finely for aromatic depth.
• 1 cup quinoa – A nutritious grain that serves as a filling base.
• 2 cups vegetable broth – Enhances the quinoa and adds extra flavor.
• 15 oz fire roasted tomatoes – Adds a smoky sweetness to the dish.
• 4 oz mild green chiles – A touch of heat without overwhelming the palate.
• 3 teaspoons chili powder – For that essential taco flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – Imparts a lovely smoky taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a hint of herbal freshness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for seasoning.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For added warmth and flavor.
• 15 oz black beans – Rinsed and drained, providing a protein-rich punch.
• 1 cup frozen corn – Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro – Fresh herbs elevate the dish.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese – A melty topping that ties everything together.
• Optional toppings: sliced green onions, avocado, cilantro, tomatoes – Personalize your dish with fresh flavors.
• Tortilla chips, salsa or pico de gallo – Perfect for serving alongside the skillet.

Cooking Instructions for Vegetarian Taco Skillet

Cooking the Vegetarian Taco Skillet is as enjoyable as eating it! Let’s dive into the steps of this delicious one-pan wonder. Follow along closely, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. You want to see a slight shimmer, signaling that it’s hot enough to sauté. Once it’s ready, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Stir them occasionally, letting them soften for about five minutes until they turn tender and fragrant.
2. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about one minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. You’ll know it’s time to move on when the garlic becomes aromatic and golden.
3. Now it’s time for the star of this dish: add the quinoa to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the quinoa is well mixed with the sautéed veggies. Then, pour in the vegetable broth, along with the fire roasted tomatoes, mild green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil. It’s important to see those bubbling edges! Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover your skillet with a lid. If your skillet doesn’t have a lid, use a baking sheet as a cover. Allow it to simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy.
5. After the time has passed, carefully remove the lid. The aroma that wafts up will be incredible! Stir in the black beans, frozen corn, and half of the chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle mix, ensuring the ingredients are scattered evenly throughout.
6. Top the skillet with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Cover it again, allowing the cheese to melt for about three to five minutes. You’ll see it bubble and ooze into all those delicious ingredients.
7. Once the cheese has melted beautifully, remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining cilantro on top. For an extra pop of freshness, add sliced green onions, avocado, and any other desired toppings.
8. Finally, ladle the Vegetarian Taco Skillet onto plates and serve warm. Accompany it with tortilla chips, salsa, or pico de gallo for a festive feel. Enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips about Vegetarian Taco Skillet

To elevate your cooking experience with the Vegetarian Taco Skillet, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. These will help you make the most delicious dish possible!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it a perfect meal prep solution!
• Freezing: You can freeze the Vegetarian Taco Skillet for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some fresh guacamole for a complete meal.
• Ingredient Swapping: Feel free to swap out the quinoa for brown rice or farro, depending on your preference.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving can really brighten up the flavors.
• Cheese Alternatives: For a vegan version, simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Serving Size: This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, but you can easily halve the recipe if you’re cooking for one or two.

How to Enjoy Vegetarian Taco Skillet

Serving the Vegetarian Taco Skillet is an opportunity to get creative and make the dining experience fun! Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• Family Style: Serve it right from the skillet for a communal dining experience. Guests can help themselves and customize their portions.
• As a Bowl: Place the Vegetarian Taco Skillet in a bowl and layer toppings like avocado, sour cream, and fresh salsa on top for a delicious taco bowl.
• Perfect for Lunch: Pack leftovers for a hearty lunch that’s easy to reheat. It’s a filling meal that holds up well!
• As a Side Dish: This skillet can also be served as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled vegetable skewers or enchiladas.
• For Special Occasions: Consider serving it at your next gathering or potluck. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Garnish: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, enjoy it with a side of fresh corn salad. In fall, pair it with roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Vegetarian Taco Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone can enjoy. It’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit every palate, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a favorite!

Vegetarian Taco Skillet

The ultimate comfort food, the Vegetarian Taco Skillet is packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. This easy weeknight dinner is not only delicious but also nutritious, featuring a medley of vegetables and spices. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy gathering, you'll want to make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 1 red bell pepper stemmed, seeds removed, and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic chopped
• 1 cup quinoa rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 15 oz fire roasted tomatoes
• 4 oz mild green chiles
• 3 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 15 oz black beans rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: sliced green onions, avocado, cilantro, tomatoes
• Tortilla chips, salsa or pico de gallo for serving

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper; cook for about 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook for one minute. Add the quinoa, vegetable broth, fire roasted tomatoes, mild green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined and let come to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. If your pan doesn’t have a lid you can cover with a baking sheet. Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked. Remove the lid and stir in the black beans, corn, and cilantro. Top with shredded cheese and put the lid back on for 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Top with green onions, avocado, cilantro, and diced tomatoes. Spoon onto plates and serve warm with tortilla chips and salsa or pico de gallo. Season with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can also use the tacos skillet mixture to make burritos, quesadillas, salads, nachos, and more!
• Tip 2: If you want a spicy kick, you can add a jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Keyword Easy Vegetarian Recipe, healthy dinner ideas, one pan meals, Vegetarian Taco Skillet

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!