Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos Recipe

Get ready for a flavor fiesta with my Swiss chard tacos, where vibrant greens meet creamy avocado and tangy queso fresco, all wrapped up in perfectly charred corn tortillas. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

I love to create dishes that are both delectable and good for you. My Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos are a choice that is not only healthy but also deliciously vibrant, with flavors that burst forth from cumin and smoked paprika.

Chard gives you a filling that is chock-full of nutrients; creamy queso fresco and avocado supply delightful contrasting textures. For me, these tacos are perfect for a wholesome meal.

Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos Recipe Ingredients

• Swiss Chard: Rich in vitamins K, A, and C; supports bone health.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats; anti-inflammatory properties.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and flavor; good source of antioxidants.
• Garlic: Enhances taste; possesses immune-boosting compounds.
• Cumin: Offers warm, earthy flavor; aids digestion.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides smokiness; adds depth to dishes.
• Queso Fresco/Feta: Source of protein and calcium; creamy texture.
• Avocado: Rich in healthy fats and fiber; creamy and nutritious.

Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make this Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos Recipe

1. In a large skillet, over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Stir in the onion, finely chopped, and sauté. Continue to sauté until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

2. Put the minced garlic in the skillet and cook for 1 more minute, stirring often to keep it from burning.

3. Mix in the cumin and smoked paprika, and let them cook an extra 30 seconds, for their aromas to become fragrant.

4. Add the Swiss chard leaves that have been cut into bite-size pieces to the skillet, and cook, stirring, until they are wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes.

5. The mixture of Swiss chard requires salting and the addition of just-ground black pepper to taste. When this has been done, the mixture is removed from the heat.

6. Heat the corn tortillas on a medium skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they become flexible and develop a light char.

7. Split the Swiss chard mixture between the warmed tortillas.

8. Crumble queso fresco or feta cheese on top of each taco, then layer on slices of avocado.

9. Top the tacos with fresh cilantro leaves.

10. Make sure to serve the tacos accompanied by lime wedges. They should be on the side, and the idea is for the eater to squeeze the lime right over the taco just before enjoying it. Ahh, you’ve got to love the acid, and this taco is really just begging for it.

Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Medium skillet
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Garlic press or fine grater (optional)
6. Measuring spoons
7. Stirring spoon or spatula
8. Tongs
9. Plates or serving tray

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different green instead of Swiss chard?Q: Can I replace Swiss chard with something else?
  A: Yes, you can use other leafy greens like spinach or kale in its place.
• Q: Are these tacos spicy?A: The tacos are seasoned with only a light hand, yet they still taste good. It is the kind of food that makes you feel good. It is the kind of food that when you eat it, you feel healthy. But I think what makes it even better is what it does to your body after you eat it: It makes you feel saner.
• Q: Can I make these tacos vegan?A: Yes, just skip the cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative, to ensure they’re vegan.
• Q: What is the best way to heat the corn tortillas?You can warm tortillas over a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or, if you prefer, wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven.
• Q: Can I prepare the filling in advance?A: Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Just reheat the filling before putting the tacos together.
• Q: What other toppings can I add?A: For extra flavor, add toppings such as salsa, hot sauce, pickled onions, or sour cream.

Swiss Chard Vegetarian Tacos Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Swiss chard: Use kale or spinach for their own flavor and texture.
Vegetable oil: Substitute with canola oil or avocado oil for a similar cooking fat.
Queso fresco or feta cheese: For a similar crumbly texture, substitute with goat cheese or cotija cheese.
Guacamole or sliced seedless cucumber makes a fine substitute for avocado. The former has an amazingly creamy consistency, while the latter has an unexpectedly satisfying crunch. Combined, each brings its own unique flavor to the table. If you’re looking to up your flavor game while replacing the avocado in certain dishes, these are two alternatives I support.
Cilantro, fresh: Substitute fresh parsley or basil for an herb with a different flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Spices Before adding the cumin and smoked paprika to the skillet, briefly toast them in a dry pan for about 30 seconds to a minute. This will enhance their flavors and aromas.

2. Avoid Overcooking the Swiss Chard To retain some texture in the Swiss chard, sauté it only until just wilted. This will prevent it from becoming too mushy and helps maintain its vibrant color.

3. Warm Tortillas Properly For optimal texture, heat the corn tortillas one at a time directly over a gas flame for a few seconds on each side until they slightly puff up and char, if you have a gas stove. This gives them a delicious, slightly smoky flavor.

4. Prepare Avocado Just Before Serving Slice the avocado last to prevent it from browning. A squeeze of lime juice over the slices can further help retain their fresh appearance.

5. Customize Your Tacos with Crunch Add a bit more texture to your tacos by including thinly sliced radishes or a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) as a garnish. This adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch.