Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos with Slaw
Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats
Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos with Slaw are a delicious and hearty plant-based meal. Packed with flavor and topped with a crunchy slaw, these tacos are perfect for any occasion.
These Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos are a game-changer for taco night. The combination of earthy lentils and smoky paprika brings depth of flavor, while the fresh slaw adds a delightful crunch. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these tacos are sure to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Smoky and savory lentils that satisfy your cravings
- Fresh and crunchy slaw adds a perfect texture
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A Flavorful Plant-Based Alternative
Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos with Slaw offer a delightful twist on traditional tacos, making them a fantastic plant-based option for any meal. Lentils are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them an excellent substitute for meat. The smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that mimics the richness of more indulgent taco fillings, ensuring that these tacos are both satisfying and nutritious.
Incorporating lentils into your diet can help you boost your overall health. They are low in calories yet high in essential nutrients, making them an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. This recipe is a wonderful way to introduce lentils into your meals, especially for those who may be skeptical about plant-based options.
The Perfect Crunch with Slaw
The addition of a fresh slaw elevates these tacos, providing a delightful crunch that complements the savory lentils. The combination of shredded cabbage and grated carrots not only adds texture but also brings a burst of color to your plate. This vibrant slaw is drizzled with a simple dressing of apple cider vinegar and olive oil, enhancing the tacos with a zesty flavor that balances the richness of the lentils.
Using seasonal vegetables for the slaw can make a significant difference in taste. Feel free to customize the slaw by adding other ingredients like bell peppers or radishes for an extra pop of flavor. This versatility makes the slaw not just a topping but a star ingredient in its own right, making your taco experience even more enjoyable.
Quick and Easy Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos is their ease of preparation. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and wholesome meal ready to serve. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence, yet you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
The recipe is also highly adaptable. You can prepare the lentil mixture and slaw ahead of time, making it easy to assemble the tacos when you’re ready to eat. This meal prep strategy not only saves time but also allows the flavors of the lentils and dressing to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish.
Ingredients
For the Tacos
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
For the Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match your favorite toppings to customize your tacos!
Instructions
Cook the Lentils
In a saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until lentils are tender. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Prepare the Slaw
In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrot. In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss to combine.
Assemble the Tacos
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Fill each tortilla with a scoop of the lentil mixture and top with the slaw.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious tacos!
Serving Suggestions
These Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos can be served with a variety of accompaniments to create a more rounded meal. Consider adding sides like guacamole, salsa, or a refreshing avocado salad to complement the flavors. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can take these tacos to the next level, giving them an extra kick.
Don't forget to pair your tacos with a refreshing beverage. A chilled glass of hibiscus tea or a light Mexican beer can enhance your dining experience, making it feel like a festive occasion.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they remain delicious for the next day. The lentil mixture can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the lentils on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your tacos again.
The slaw is best when fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. To maintain the crunchiness, consider adding the dressing just before serving. This will keep the cabbage and carrots crisp, ensuring that your leftovers are just as enjoyable as the original meal.
Nutritional Benefits
Lentils are an incredible source of plant-based protein, making them a favorite among vegetarians and vegans. One cup of cooked lentils provides about 18 grams of protein, along with vital nutrients like iron, folate, and magnesium. This makes them not only filling but also supportive of overall health.
The slaw, enriched with cabbage and carrots, contributes additional vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is known for its high vitamin C content, while carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health. Together, these ingredients create a well-rounded meal that nourishes your body while delighting your taste buds.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lentils and slaw in advance. Just warm the tortillas before serving.
→ Are these tacos gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free corn tortillas.
→ Can I use another type of bean instead of lentils?
Absolutely! Black beans or chickpeas would also work well.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover lentils and slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos with Slaw
Smoked Paprika Lentil Tacos with Slaw are a delicious and hearty plant-based meal. Packed with flavor and topped with a crunchy slaw, these tacos are perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Quick Fix Eats
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tacos
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
For the Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until lentils are tender. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrot. In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss to combine.
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Fill each tortilla with a scoop of the lentil mixture and top with the slaw.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 12g