Desert Bloom Cactus Tacos (Printable Version)

A flavorful mix of grilled nopales, roasted veggies, salsas, and garnishes on warm tortillas for sharing.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cactus & Vegetable Fillings

01 - 2 cups nopales (cactus paddles), cleaned and sliced
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
06 - 1 red onion, sliced
07 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
08 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
10 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Tortillas

11 - 12 small corn or flour tortillas

→ Salsas & Sauces

12 - 1/2 cup fresh pico de gallo
13 - 1/2 cup roasted corn salsa
14 - 1/3 cup chipotle crema (sour cream mixed with chipotle in adobo)
15 - 1/3 cup guacamole

→ Toppings & Garnishes

16 - 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta
17 - 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
18 - 1/4 cup thinly sliced radishes
19 - 1/4 cup pickled red onions
20 - 2 limes, cut into wedges

# How To Make It:

01 - Set the oven temperature to 425°F and allow it to fully heat.
02 - Place nopales, sliced bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt, and toss to evenly coat.
03 - Roast the vegetables for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until tender with slight charring.
04 - While vegetables roast, warm black beans in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in ground cumin and smoked paprika, cooking until heated through, about 5 minutes.
05 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave just until pliable and warm.
06 - Place salsas, sauces, toppings, and garnishes in small serving bowls or arrange directly on a large serving board.
07 - Arrange the roasted vegetables, nopales, black beans, and warm tortillas on the serving board for customization.
08 - Invite guests to assemble their own tacos with desired toppings and garnishes.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect for sharing with friends and family
  • Features vegetarian and gluten-free options
02 -
  • Omit cheese and use vegan crema for a vegan version
  • Add grilled shrimp or chicken if not vegetarian
03 -
  • Use fresh nopales for best texture and flavor
  • Warm tortillas just before serving for softness
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