These Healthy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos are a tasty twist on taco night! Packed with black beans and sweet potatoes, they’re full of flavor and good for you too.
Honestly, who knew tacos could be so healthy? I love loading mine with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa for an extra pop of yum. These are definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute with butternut squash or even regular potatoes, but the flavor won’t be quite the same!
Black Beans: A great source of protein and fiber! If you don’t have black beans, try kidney beans or pinto beans instead. They’ll still keep the dish healthy and hearty.
Tortillas: You can use corn or flour tortillas based on your preference. If you need a gluten-free option, stick with corn tortillas. I personally prefer corn for that authentic taco flavor!
Salsa Verde: This adds a nice tangy kick! If you can’t find it, regular salsa or even fresh pico de gallo can work well too. Homemade versions are always a hit, too!
What’s the Best Way to Roast Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes can take your dish to the next level with their natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Dice the sweet potatoes into equally sized cubes for even cooking. Aim for about 1/2 inch.
- Toss with olive oil and spices to ensure they’re coated well. This adds flavor and helps them caramelize.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet—don’t overcrowd! This allows them to roast instead of steam.
- Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes. Turn them halfway for a nice golden color on all sides.
This method really enhances the flavor and texture, making your tacos even more delicious!
How to Make Healthy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Taco Filling:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
For the Tacos:
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh salsa verde or green salsa
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Optional: lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 40 minutes. You’ll be enjoying these flavorful tacos in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is essential for getting those sweet potatoes nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a medium bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure each piece is well coated as this will maximize flavor during roasting.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes onto a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking to achieve that perfect golden-brown texture!
4. Heat the Black Beans:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, pour the drained and rinsed black beans into a small saucepan. Heat them over low heat until they are warmed through—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
To enhance the flavor of your tacos, warm the tortillas! You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat or by placing them directly over a gas flame for a bit of char. Just warm them until they are soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Take a tortilla and place a few roasted sweet potato cubes in it. Top it with a generous scoop of black beans, a spoonful of salsa verde, and slices of creamy avocado. Add some crumbled feta or cotija cheese for that extra deliciousness.
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish off your tacos, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. It’s time to dig in!
Enjoy your Healthy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos! They are full of flavor and make for a delicious, nutritious meal!
FAQ for Healthy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use butternut squash or zucchini for a slightly different taste and texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable you choose!
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegan?
These tacos are already mostly vegan, but to keep them entirely plant-based, simply omit the feta or cotija cheese. You can also substitute with a plant-based cheese or avocado for creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sweet potato filling and black beans separately, then assemble the tacos again when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Meal Prep These Tacos?
Yes! You can roast the sweet potatoes and heat the black beans ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and simply warm everything up when you’re ready to assemble and enjoy your tacos!
