Tacos just got a bold and nutritious upgrade with these Spicy Brussels Sprout Tacos! The crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, seasoned to perfection with smoky spices, add a satisfying crunch to every bite. Paired with a creamy avocado crema, black beans, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese, these tacos are bursting with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun taco night with friends, this dish is a delicious way to get your veggies in without sacrificing taste. The combination of textures—from crispy sprouts to smooth avocado crema—creates an irresistible bite that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 6 small corn tortillas
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup avocado crema (see below)
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or vegan alternative)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Avocado Crema:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss sliced Brussels sprouts with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Spread Brussels sprouts evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
- While Brussels sprouts roast, prepare the avocado crema by blending avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and salt until smooth. Add water if needed for a thinner consistency.
- Warm corn tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side.
- Assemble tacos by spreading a spoonful of black beans onto each tortilla. Top with roasted Brussels sprouts, a drizzle of avocado crema, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 3 servings
Spicy Brussels Sprout Tacos: A Flavorful, Nutritious Twist on Taco Night
Tacos are one of the most versatile and beloved dishes worldwide, but have you ever tried them with Brussels sprouts? These Spicy Brussels Sprout Tacos are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier yet indulgent taco experience. With crispy, smoky, and slightly spicy roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy avocado crema, hearty black beans, and tangy cotija cheese, this recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these tacos are an exciting way to enjoy Brussels sprouts like never before. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the background of this recipe, its health benefits, why it’s an excellent choice for your next meal, and how to make it absolutely perfect every time.
The Inspiration Behind Spicy Brussels Sprout Tacos
Brussels sprouts have long had a bad reputation as a bland or bitter vegetable, but when cooked the right way, they transform into crispy, caramelized bites of goodness. In recent years, Brussels sprouts have made a comeback in the food world, thanks to modern cooking techniques like roasting and frying, which enhance their natural sweetness and crispiness. The inspiration for these tacos comes from the desire to take a healthy, underrated vegetable and turn it into a bold, exciting dish. Mexican cuisine is known for its depth of flavors, from smoky spices to tangy lime and creamy avocado. By incorporating Brussels sprouts into a taco recipe, we create an innovative dish that blends traditional and modern flavors while keeping it nutritious and satisfying.
Why Brussels Sprouts? The Nutritional Benefits
Brussels sprouts aren’t just delicious; they’re also a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why they should be a staple in your diet:
- Rich in Fiber: Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full longer. This makes them great for weight management and gut health.
- Loaded with Vitamins: They are particularly high in Vitamin C, which boosts immunity, and Vitamin K, essential for bone health.
- Powerful Antioxidants: These little green gems contain compounds like kaempferol, which has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
- Low in Calories: Despite being packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are low in calories, making them perfect for a guilt-free, satisfying meal.
When paired with other nutrient-dense ingredients like black beans, avocado, and whole-grain corn tortillas, these tacos become an incredibly balanced meal.
What Makes These Tacos So Irresistible?
Crispy, Smoky Brussels Sprouts
- Roasting Brussels sprouts at high heat allows them to caramelize and crisp up, eliminating any bitterness while bringing out their natural sweetness. The addition of smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder enhances their depth of flavor, making them the perfect taco filling.
Creamy, Tangy Avocado Crema
- Avocado crema is a cool and refreshing contrast to the spice in the Brussels sprouts. Blending ripe avocado with lime juice, yogurt, and garlic creates a smooth, zesty sauce that takes these tacos to the next level. It also adds healthy fats, which help absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the Brussels sprouts.
Hearty, Protein-Packed Black Beans
- Black beans are a staple in many Mexican-inspired dishes, and for good reason. They are an excellent plant-based protein source, rich in fiber and iron. They add a satisfying texture and help make these tacos more filling and balanced.
A Finishing Touch of Cotija Cheese and Cilantro
- Cotija cheese provides a salty, tangy kick that complements the other flavors beautifully. If you prefer a vegan alternative, nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese can provide a similar umami effect. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous brightness to complete the dish.
The Perfect Tortillas
- Using small corn tortillas keeps these tacos authentic and gluten-free. Warming them on a dry skillet before assembling ensures they stay soft yet slightly crispy, adding to the overall experience.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These tacos are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal with these sides:
- Mexican Rice or Quinoa: A great way to add some extra fiber and protein to your meal.
- Grilled Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn balances out the spice in the tacos.
- Homemade Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Adds freshness and an extra layer of flavor.
- Margaritas or Agua Fresca: The perfect refreshing drinks to accompany your tacos!
Why These Tacos Are Perfect for Any Occasion
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Plant-Based and Healthy: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- Customizable: You can easily add protein like grilled tofu, tempeh, or even shrimp.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even non-vegetarians will love the bold flavors and crispy textures.
Conclusion
Spicy Brussels Sprout Tacos are proof that plant-based eating doesn’t have to be boring. This dish brings together smoky, spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors, making it one of the best ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts. Whether you’re a taco enthusiast or looking for a new way to incorporate more veggies into your meals, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So next time Taco Tuesday rolls around, skip the traditional fillings and give these Spicy Brussels Sprout Tacos a try. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!
