Save to Pinterest These One-Pot Lentil Taco Meat Quinoa Bowls are a plant-based powerhouse, blending hearty lentils and fluffy quinoa with an aromatic medley of Mexican-inspired spices. This dish is designed for those who crave a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal without the hassle of multiple pans, making it a perfect centerpiece for a wholesome dinner.
Save to Pinterest The star of the show is the velvety avocado lime crema, which adds a bright, zesty contrast to the smoky, spiced base. Combined with fresh corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a kick of jalapeño, every bite offers a balanced explosion of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- Lentil Taco Meat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup dry brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 3/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Juice of 1 lime
- Avocado Lime Crema
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 1/3 cup unsweetened plant-based yogurt (e.g., coconut, soy, or almond)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 small clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed for thinning
- Bowl Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2
- Add garlic and bell pepper; cook for 2 more minutes.
- Step 3
- Stir in lentils, quinoa, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1 minute to toast spices.
- Step 4
- Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and quinoa are tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5
- Stir in black beans and lime juice. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until beans are warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 6
- While the lentil mixture cooks, prepare the avocado lime crema: Add avocado, plant-based yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro (if using), and salt to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time to reach a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Step 7
- To serve, divide the lentil-quinoa mixture among 4 bowls. Top with cherry tomatoes, corn, cilantro, green onions, jalapeño (if using), and a generous dollop of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the lentil mixture. Always check yogurt labels for possible soy, tree nut, or coconut allergens to ensure the dish remains compatible with your dietary requirements.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap black beans for pinto beans if preferred. For a grain-free version, omit the quinoa and use extra lentils instead.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this flavorful meal with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with a splash of lime.
Save to Pinterest This one-pot wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or looking for a fast, nutrient-dense dinner, these taco bowls deliver big on flavor and health benefits.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different beans instead of black beans?
Yes, pinto beans or kidney beans can be great alternatives that complement the spices and textures well.
- → How can I make the avocado lime crema thinner?
Add small amounts of water or plant-based yogurt gradually while blending until the desired pourable consistency is reached.
- → Is it possible to make this dish grain-free?
Omitting quinoa and increasing lentils makes it grain-free while keeping it hearty and flavorful.
- → What spices give the lentil taco meat its flavor?
A blend of cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and coriander creates the warm, savory taco-inspired seasoning.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the lentil and quinoa base can be cooked in advance and stored refrigerated; add fresh toppings and crema when serving.