Spicy Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Slaw Recipe
Looking for a plant-powered meal that’s big on flavor and built for your goals? These Spicy Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Slaw deliver a satisfying crunch, high fiber, and plant-based protein — all in under 30 minutes. They’re ideal for anyone wanting a clean, energizing dinner without sacrificing taste.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just want a fast and healthy meatless Monday option, these tacos check every box: gluten-free, vegetarian, and customizable to your heat level. Let’s dig in.
Ingredients
For the Black Bean Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons water, as needed to loosen mixture
For the Avocado Slaw:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
For Assembling:
- 6–8 small corn tortillas (gluten-free)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges
- Optional toppings: pickled onions, jalapeños, salsa, or hot sauce
Instructions
1. Sauté the Black Bean Base
Start by heating olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. This combination will create a rich, smoky base for your beans. Now, add the black beans and stir to coat. Lightly mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon to give the filling a hearty texture. If the mixture becomes dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water to keep it moist. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until thick and flavorful. Finish with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prepare the Creamy Avocado Slaw
While the beans cook, mash the avocado in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This acts as your creamy, tangy dressing. Then, add in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Toss until evenly coated. You can mix in chopped cilantro if desired for an extra burst of flavor and color. This slaw adds not only crunch but also heart-healthy fats and gut-friendly fiber.
3. Warm the Tortillas
Heat a skillet (no oil needed) and warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds per side. You can also microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds. Warming the tortillas keeps them pliable and prevents cracking when filled.
4. Assemble Your Tacos
Lay out the warmed tortillas and spoon a generous amount of the spicy black bean filling down the center of each. Top with a big scoop of avocado slaw. Finish with your choice of garnishes like pickled red onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime over the top pulls all the flavors together.
5. Serve and Enjoy
These tacos taste best fresh, but leftovers keep well. Store extra black bean filling and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and build when you’re ready for round two.
Why These Tacos Work for Fitness-Focused Eaters
- High in fiber: Black beans and veggies support gut health and help you feel full longer.
- Plant-based protein: Perfect for meatless meals that still fuel recovery.
- Healthy fats: Avocado adds omega-3s and keeps your hormones and joints happy.
- Quick and clean: Whole-food ingredients, no added sugar, no gluten.
They’re also incredibly versatile. Want to increase protein? Add grilled tofu or a sprinkle of hemp seeds. Want more spice? Add extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne.
Nutrition Facts (Per 2 Tacos)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 13g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 11g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | ~360mg |
Nutrition values will vary depending on tortillas and toppings used.
Pro Tips for Meal Prep
- Double the beans: The black bean mixture stores well and works in bowls, wraps, or breakfast burritos.
- Use a food processor: For an ultra-creamy avocado slaw, pulse everything instead of hand-mixing.
- Serve buffet-style: Great for families or gatherings — everyone can customize their own tacos.
