These Easy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos are a tasty treat! Packed with fluffy sweet potatoes and protein-filled black beans, they’re both filling and healthy.
When I make these, I love adding a splash of lime and some fresh cilantro for extra zing. They’re perfect for a simple dinner or a fun taco night with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, giving a sweet and slightly earthy flavor. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can work but will change the flavor slightly.
Black Beans: Canned black beans make this recipe quick and easy. If you prefer fresh, cooked beans, feel free to use those instead. You can substitute with pinto beans if you like!
Tortillas: I usually use corn tortillas because they add a nice texture and flavor. Flour tortillas are fine too, and gluten-free tortillas can be a good option for those with dietary needs.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a nice salty touch. You can swap it with feta or skip it altogether for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes to perfection requires a bit of attention. You want them to be tender and caramelized. Here are some tips:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Coat them well with olive oil and spices to enhance their flavor.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet without crowding for proper roasting.
- Stir halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
Taking these steps will give you beautifully roasted sweet potatoes that add great taste to your tacos!
Easy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup salsa verde or green salsa
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time roasting the sweet potatoes and heating the beans, and then just a few minutes putting everything together. Total time is around 40 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps get the sweet potatoes nice and crispy!
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures even roasting!
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir them halfway through to promote even cooking. You want them to be tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Warm the Black Beans:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the black beans in a small pot over low heat. Stir in about half of the salsa verde to add some flavor. Keep it warm while you finish the other steps.
5. Prepare the Tortillas:
To warm your tortillas, you can either use a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrap them in foil and place them in the oven for about 5 minutes, until they’re warm and flexible.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Start making your tacos by dividing the roasted sweet potatoes evenly among the warmed tortillas. Top each taco with the warm black beans and the remaining salsa verde.
7. Add Toppings:
Now, slice your avocado and place a few slices on top of each taco. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped cilantro and crumbled cheese over everything for a burst of flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing! Each bite is a wonderful combination of sweet, smoky, and fresh flavors.
Enjoy these hearty, flavorful tacos that will surely become a favorite!
FAQ for Easy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos
Can I Use Other Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While black beans are a great choice for this recipe, you can easily substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Just be sure to heat them through before adding them to your tacos.
How Do I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you like a kick of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sweet potatoes before roasting. You can also use a spicier salsa or add some hot sauce to the black beans for extra flavor.
Can I Prepare These Tacos in Advance?
Yes! You can roast the sweet potatoes and warm the beans ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat, warm the tortillas, and assemble your tacos!
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Tacos?
Besides avocado and cilantro, you could also add toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Get creative with whatever you love!
