Have you ever craved a hearty, flavorful Mexican dish but dreaded the pile of dishes afterward? Enter the One Pan Vegan Mexican Taco Skillet—a wholesome, delicious, and super-easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein, vibrant veggies, and classic Mexican spices, this dish will quickly become your go-to for satisfying vegan Mexican food recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Mexican Taco Skillet
- One Pan Wonder: Minimal prep, minimal cleanup—perfect for those nights when time is short but your taste buds demand something amazing.
- High in Plant-Based Protein: Featuring black beans and quinoa, this dish delivers 28g of protein per serving, keeping you energized and satisfied.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like beans, corn, and quinoa to create a nutrient-packed meal without breaking the bank.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.
Vegan Mexican Fiesta: One Pan Mexican Taco Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 red bell peppers diced
- 2.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups salsa
- 1 540 mL can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn or fresh, if available
- 3 cups fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen, thawed
- ½ cup chopped cilantro optional
- 1 cup shredded vegan cheese
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado green onions, extra cilantro, and tortilla chips.
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and spices, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Quinoa: Add dry quinoa, vegetable broth, and salsa to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the quinoa is fully cooked.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Spinach: Stir in black beans, corn, and spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt, then mix in half of the vegan cheese for a creamy texture.
- Broil with Cheese: Top with the remaining vegan cheese and place the skillet under the broiler for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning!
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with avocado slices, green onions, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
Notes
- High Protein: Features black beans and quinoa for a healthy vegetarian protein source.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Image Credit: Nourished by Nic
Tips for the Best Vegan Mexican Food
- Balance the Spices: Adjust chili powder and paprika to suit your heat tolerance.
- Make it Creamy: Add a dollop of vegan sour cream or cashew crema for extra indulgence.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Customizable Variations
- Switch the Base: Use rice, farro, or cauliflower rice instead of quinoa.
- Amp Up the Protein: Add crumbled vegan ground meat or cooked lentils.
- Get Creative with Veggies: Toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted sweet potatoes for extra nutrition.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it great for those with allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of bean?
Absolutely! Kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas work wonderfully in this recipe. - What if I don’t have salsa?
Substitute with canned diced tomatoes and a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Rotation
This One Pan Vegan Mexican Taco Skillet is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and effortless cooking. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for meal-prep inspiration, this recipe delivers on every level.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy vegan Mexican food recipes? Share your tips and twists in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to rate it and share it with friends.
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Mexican Chicken Drumsticks
- Easy & Flavorful Mexican Rice
- Traditional Tuna Ceviche Recipe
- Pan-Seared Mexican Fish Recipe
- Easy Mexican Roasted Potatoes Recipe
- Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how this One Pan Vegan Mexican Taco Skillet turned out! Leave a comment or tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and #foodiecreator on social media to show off your creation.
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