Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Tacos with Spicy Crema: A Deliciously Healthy Meatless Meal

While meat often takes center stage in our family meals, we wholeheartedly embrace and adore flavorful vegetarian options. The misconception that meals must contain meat to be satisfying couldn’t be further from the truth, especially when it comes to these vibrant vegetarian tacos. Bursting with diverse vegetables and rich, savory seasonings, you’ll find there’s absolutely no need for meat to create an incredibly fulfilling and delicious dining experience.

We were thrilled when Old El Paso invited us to craft a creative recipe using their fantastic taco seasoning. This recipe for vegetarian tacos was already brewing in our minds, making it a perfect partnership. Old El Paso products have been a staple in our kitchen for years, inspiring many family favorites. You might recognize some of our past creations like Deep Fried 7 Layer Dip Taquitos, Enchilada Style Meatloaf, and Sweet Pork Taco Bowls. And keep an eye out for our upcoming, most authentic copycat Cafe Rio Pork recipe – it’s going to be a game-changer!

The Growing Trend and Benefits of Meatless Meals

When I was growing up, dinner almost always featured meat. It was the norm, and I never gave it a second thought. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to appreciate the value of taking a break from meat occasionally. Incorporating vegetarian meals into our weekly routine has become a conscious effort to boost our intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Most people don’t consume anywhere near the recommended amount of vegetables, so dedicating one or more meals a week to plant-based options is a fantastic way to enhance your diet with wholesome, nutritious foods.

For several years now, our family has embraced the practice of mixing in more vegetarian dishes, and I’ve noticed a significant difference in how I feel. Eating meat every single day can sometimes leave me feeling heavy and less energetic. Don’t get me wrong, my love for meat remains strong, but our bodies thrive on balance. Consuming meat in moderation and proper portions, alongside a diverse range of plant-based foods, is key to obtaining a wide array of nutrients for optimal health. Vegetables, on the other hand, are foods you can truly indulge in! Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables daily can help strengthen your immune system, ward off illnesses, and contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

Making Vegetarian Meals Kid-Friendly

It’s natural to worry about introducing vegetarian options to children, as it can sometimes be a bit trickier with picky eaters. But there’s no need to fear! Our experience has shown that consistent exposure is key. If we continue to offer the same new foods repeatedly, our children eventually become more willing to try them. Often, a small taste can lead to a pleasant surprise, and before you know it, they’re asking for more. These flavorful vegetarian tacos, with their vibrant colors and appealing textures, are often a hit with kids who might be hesitant about plant-based meals. The familiar taco format makes them approachable, and the sweet bell peppers and mild squash are generally well-received.

Understanding Crema and Its Substitutions

Before diving into the recipe for these incredible vegetarian tacos, let’s clarify a few common questions, especially about one of our star ingredients: crema.

What is Crema?

Crema is a traditional Mexican dairy product, similar to sour cream but typically thinner, richer, and less tangy. It’s prepared using heavy cream and buttermilk, often with a touch of salt and lime juice, which contributes to its unique, subtly tangy, and creamy flavor profile. It adds a delightful richness to any dish.

What Could You Substitute for Crema?

If you can’t find Mexican crema, a fantastic and readily available substitute is plain yogurt, especially Greek yogurt thinned slightly with a bit of milk or lime juice. It offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. However, it’s important to note that yogurt tends to separate at high temperatures, unlike crema. For cold applications or as a finishing drizzle, yogurt works wonderfully. Alternatively, regular sour cream is also a suitable replacement, though it will be slightly thicker and more tart.

Are Corn Tortillas Gluten-Free?

Yes, traditional corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free! They are made from masa harina, a special type of corn flour. This makes them an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or who follow a gluten-free diet. However, if you have severe celiac disease, always check the packaging for a “gluten-free” certification, as cross-contamination can occur if the tortillas are manufactured in facilities that also process gluten-containing products.

Vegetarian Tacos with Spicy Crema Recipe

These vegetarian tacos are so packed with flavor, you won’t even miss the meat!

Vegetarian Tacos with Spicy Crema

By
Sweet Basil

Prep
10 mins

Cook
20 mins

Total
30 mins

Servings
6 tacos

These vegetarian tacos are so packed with flavor you won’t miss the meat!

Ingredients

• Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon Old El Paso Taco Seasoning
• 3 Bell Peppers, red, green, and yellow – 1 of each
• 1/2 Onion, sliced
• 1 Pint Baby Bellas Mushrooms
• 1 Small Zucchini, chopped
• 1 Small Yellow Squash, chopped
• Salt and Pepper
• Old El Paso Hard Taco Shells
• Queso Fresco
• Cilantro
• Lime, chopped
• 1 Romaine Lettuce Leaf, chopped into fine strips

For the Sauce

• 1/2 Cup Crema, or sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
• Queso Fresco, and cilantro for garnish

Instructions

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add the taco seasoning, peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini and squash and cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Meanwhile, in a small bowl mix together the crema, chili powder, and cumin to create the spicy crema sauce.
• Place the sautéed veggies in each Old El Paso hard taco shell. Top with a sprinkling of queso fresco, fresh cilantro, a squirt of lime juice, and drizzle generously with the spicy crema.
• Add the finely chopped romaine lettuce strips and serve your delicious vegetarian tacos immediately for the best flavor and crunch.

Recipe Notes

Mexican crema can often be found in the dairy section of your grocery store, usually near other specialty cheeses or sour cream, often in a jar-like container. If it’s unavailable, regular sour cream makes an excellent substitute.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g,
Calories: 85kcal,
Carbohydrates: 11g,
Protein: 5g,
Fat: 4g,
Saturated Fat: 1g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g,
Cholesterol: 10mg,
Sodium: 128mg,
Potassium: 578mg,
Fiber: 3g,
Sugar: 7g,
Vitamin A: 2579IU,
Vitamin C: 90mg,
Calcium: 54mg,
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Serving Suggestions and Customization

These vegetarian tacos are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your taco night even further with a few simple additions. Serve them alongside a fresh cilantro-lime rice or a simple black bean salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider adding some thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the crema. You can also experiment with different vegetables – corn, black beans, or even roasted sweet potatoes would make excellent additions to the filling. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these tacos truly your own!

Embrace the Flavor: A New Taco Night Favorite

We hope you enjoy these incredibly flavorful and satisfying Vegetarian Tacos with Spicy Crema as much as our family does. They prove that meatless meals can be both exciting and deeply satisfying, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re aiming to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, exploring plant-based options, or simply seeking a fresh and quick dinner idea, these tacos are sure to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. Get ready for a taco night that’s bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome goodness!

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