Crispy Vegetarian Potato Tacos with Fresh Toppings
Indulge in a delightful burst of flavors with these Crispy Vegetarian Potato Tacos, inspired by the simple yet satisfying pan-fried potato tacos that are a hit with kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare, they make for a nourishing meal that is both healthy and filling. With a base of Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and a touch of taco seasoning, these tacos are crispy on the outside and soft inside. The colorful array of toppings—from fresh tomatoes, crunchy cabbage or lettuce, fragrant cilantro, and zesty lemon juice—make each bite a fiesta for your taste buds. Whether enjoyed alone or with creamy refried black beans, these tacos are perfect for taco night or a casual gathering. Gather your family around the table and let everyone build their personalized taco masterpiece!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion
1 (20 ounces, thawed)
Red bell pepper
1 (chopped)
Taco seasoning
1.5 (ounce packet or 2-3 teaspoons ground cumin)
Garlic salt
to taste (none)
Fresh lemon juice
1-2 (tablespoon)
Corn tortillas
12-18 (white preferred)
Fat free refried black beans
16 (ounce can, heated (optional))
Tomatoes
3 (chopped)
Green onion
1 bunch (sliced)
Cabbage or lettuce
1/4 (head, sliced thinly)
Cilantro
1 bunch (chopped)
Lemon wedge
1 (to serve)
Cheese of choice
as desired (shredded colby, jack, crumbled feta, or goat cheese)
Sour cream
to serve (none)
Salsa
to serve (none)
Hot sauce
to serve (e.g., Tapatio)
Instructions
1
Spray oil in a large skillet and heat over medium heat.
2
Add the Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Season with taco seasoning (or cumin) and garlic salt to taste. Toss to combine.
3
Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, until the potatoes are heated through and slightly crispy.
4
Remove the lid and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the potato mixture. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to crisp up further.
5
While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the toppings. Chop the tomatoes, slice the green onions, and thinly slice the cabbage or lettuce. Arrange these toppings on a large platter along with the chopped cilantro.
6
Heat the corn tortillas using your preferred method; we suggest warming them on a gas stove flame until they develop brown spots for an authentic flavor. Alternatively, you can lightly fry them in oil. Keep them warm in a tortilla warmer or on a plate.
7
Serve the crispy potato mixture in a bowl alongside the warm tortillas and an assortment of toppings. Guests can assemble their tacos with refried black beans, potatoes, fresh veggies, cheese, sour cream, and salsa to their liking. Squeeze a lemon wedge on top for an extra zing!
8
Enjoy the tacos as a fun, interactive meal where everyone can customize their own creation!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Vegetarian Potato Tacos?
These are flavorful tacos featuring a filling of seasoned, pan-fried diced potatoes and bell peppers, topped with fresh vegetables and cheese for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using a 20-ounce package of Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion, thawed before cooking.
How long does it take to cook the potato filling?
The potatoes should be cooked covered for about 15 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 3-5 minutes to achieve a crispy texture.
What seasonings are needed for the potato mixture?
You will need taco seasoning (or ground cumin) and garlic salt to taste.
How do I make the potatoes crispy?
After cooking them covered, remove the lid and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them, then continue cooking for a few more minutes until they crisp up.
What kind of tortillas are best for these tacos?
The recipe suggests using 12-18 white corn tortillas for an authentic flavor.
How should I warm the corn tortillas?
You can warm them directly over a gas stove flame until brown spots appear, or lightly fry them in oil.
What fresh toppings are recommended?
Recommended toppings include chopped tomatoes, sliced green onions, thinly sliced cabbage or lettuce, and chopped cilantro.
Is there a recommended cheese for these tacos?
You can use shredded colby, jack, crumbled feta, or goat cheese depending on your preference.
Can I add protein to these vegetarian tacos?
Yes, serving them with a side of heated fat-free refried black beans is a great way to add protein and extra filling.
Are these potato tacos kid-friendly?
Yes, they are inspired by simple pan-fried potato tacos that are generally a hit with children.
How do I add a spicy kick to the recipe?
You can serve the tacos with hot sauce, such as Tapatio, or your favorite salsa.
What is the purpose of the lemon juice in this recipe?
Lemon juice adds a fresh zing to the potato mixture and helps the potatoes crisp up during the final stage of cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply omit the cheese and sour cream or replace them with plant-based alternatives.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 16 ingredients listed, including the main filling components and various optional toppings.
Is this a healthy meal option?
Yes, it is described as a nourishing and healthy meal that is both filling and packed with fresh vegetables.
What vegetables are cooked with the potatoes?
Chopped red bell pepper is cooked directly with the potatoes to add color and flavor.
How should I serve these tacos for a group?
Arrange the potato mixture and various toppings on a large platter so guests can build their own personalized tacos.
Can I use ground cumin instead of taco seasoning?
Yes, 2-3 teaspoons of ground cumin can be used as a substitute for a standard taco seasoning packet.
Should the cabbage be sliced thick or thin?
The cabbage or lettuce should be sliced thinly to provide a nice crunch to the tacos.
What size bag of potatoes is used?
The recipe calls for one 20-ounce bag of diced potatoes.
Do I need oil to cook the potatoes?
The recipe recommends using spray oil in a large skillet to prevent sticking and aid in browning.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
While white corn tortillas are preferred for authenticity, flour tortillas can be used if you prefer them.
Is it necessary to thaw the potatoes first?
Yes, the instructions specify using thawed diced potatoes for the best cooking results.
How much taco seasoning should I use?
Use one 1.5-ounce packet of taco seasoning for the potato mixture.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
While the recipe specifies lemon juice and lemon wedges, lime is a common substitute in Mexican cuisine that would also work well.
How many tomatoes are needed for the toppings?
The recipe calls for 3 chopped tomatoes to be served as a topping.
Is the cilantro used in the filling or as a topping?
The cilantro is chopped and used as a fresh topping added after the tacos are assembled.
Can I use any type of bell pepper?
The recipe specifically lists red bell pepper, but other colors like yellow or orange would also work fine.
What is the best way to keep the tortillas warm?
Keep them in a tortilla warmer or on a covered plate after heating them on the stove.