Spiced Cauliflower and Lentil Tacos with Pickled Red Onions and Lime Crema - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Spiced Cauliflower and Lentil Tacos with Pickled Red Onions and Lime Crema

Get ready to taco 'bout deliciousness! These Spiced Cauliflower and Lentil Tacos are a flavor-packed fiesta, starring tender veggies, tangy pickled red onions, and a creamy lime drizzle. Perfect for weeknights or parties, they’re bold, zesty, and totally unforgettable! Let’s dive in!

4.4 out of 5 (5 ratings)

Let’s talk tacos! Not just any tacos, but the kind that make you dance a little salsa in your kitchen. Meet the Spiced Cauliflower and Lentil Tacos with Pickled Red Onions and Lime Crema. These beauties are a fusion of bold spices, hearty lentils, and fresh, zesty toppings. I like to think of them as the life of the dinner party—colorful, exciting, and packed with personality. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or elevating your Taco Tuesday, this recipe is pure culinary joy. Trust me, your taste buds are going to throw a fiesta!

Spiced Cauliflower and Lentil Tacos with Pickled Red Onions and Lime Crema Recipe

What makes this recipe so special? Oh, where do I begin! The cauliflower gets roasted with a warm blend of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and a little cayenne for kick, creating crispy, caramelized florets that are positively addictive. Then, we’ve got the lentils—earthy, tender, and protein-packed, making these tacos as satisfying as they are flavorful. But let’s not forget the tangy pickled red onions, which add just the right amount of zing, and the lime crema that ties it all together with its creamy citrusy goodness. Each bite is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, creamy, and bright. It’s like the tacos have their own little dance routine, and every ingredient knows the steps.

Now, here's your open invitation to taco glory! These are fabulous served with warm corn tortillas, but swap for flour if that’s your jam. Feeling extra fancy? Add toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, or even a sprinkle of crumbly queso fresco. And hey, if there's a gluten-free or vegan eater in your crowd, these tacos have got you covered—they’re super flexible. So grab your pan, assemble the squad (human or imaginary—no judgment!), and let the cooking party begin. Your weeknight dinner just got an upgrade, and oh boy, is it delicious!

Keywords: spiced cauliflower tacos recipe, lentil tacos with lime crema, vegetarian taco recipe with cauliflower, pickled red onion tacos, smoky lentil taco filling, cauliflower taco ideas, easy plant-based taco recipe

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Mexican

Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into small florets
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup pickled red onions
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. 2

    In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

  3. 3

    Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly crispy.

  4. 4

    While the cauliflower is roasting, warm the cooked lentils in a small pan over medium heat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and keep warm.

  5. 5

    In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and lime juice to make the lime crema. Set aside.

  6. 6

    Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until pliable. Keep them warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel.

  7. 7

    Assemble the tacos by layering each tortilla with roasted cauliflower, a spoonful of lentils, pickled red onions, a drizzle of lime crema, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Information

Calories

280 calories per serving

Protein

11g

Carbs

36g

Fat

10g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different vegetable instead of cauliflower?

A: Yes, you can substitute cauliflower with other vegetables such as broccoli, sweet potatoes, or zucchini. Adjust the roasting time as needed, as some vegetables may cook faster or slower than cauliflower.

Q: Can I use a different type of lentil?

A: Absolutely! While cooked green or brown lentils work best for their texture, you can use red lentils if desired, though they tend to be softer and may not hold their shape as well. Make sure the lentils are fully cooked and drained before using.

Q: How do I make this recipe vegan?

A: To make this recipe vegan, replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Ensure the tortillas and other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.

Q: Can I prepare any of the components ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare several components in advance. Roast the cauliflower and cook the lentils up to 2 days ahead, then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The lime crema can also be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat the cauliflower and lentils before assembling the tacos.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store leftover roasted cauliflower, lentils, and lime crema in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the cauliflower and lentils in a skillet or microwave before assembling the tacos. Keep the tortillas wrapped tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Q: How can I adjust the spice level?

A: To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cauliflower seasoning. To reduce the spice, omit the chili powder or reduce the smoked paprika slightly. You can also serve the tacos with extra lime crema to balance the heat.

Q: What are some serving variations or additions?

A: You can customize these tacos by adding toppings like diced avocado, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, serve the roasted cauliflower and lentils over rice or quinoa for a taco bowl variation.

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