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Hello! I’m Anjali. I’m a board certified health coach, author, wife, mom and food lover from the SF Bay area (now living in Seattle, WA!); with a passion for delicious food and a desire to make healthy eating easy, tasty and fun! Learn more about me here and stay for a while!

Anjali Shah

Vegan Black Bean Tacos

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These healthy and delicious Vegan Black Bean Tacos make the perfect easy weeknight meal. I packed them with black beans, fresh veggies, warm spices, and flavorful toppings, creating a satisfying dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for the whole family.

Vegan black bean tacos with beans, avocado, veggies, and cilantro, served on a white plate.

Mexican food is a staple in my house because we love the fresh flavors, and how easy it is to put together vegan and vegetarian Mexican meals that everyone enjoys. I made this vegan black bean tacos recipe because black beans are one of my favorite ingredients to cook with. Just like when I prepared my black bean burritos, I wanted a dish that was simple satisfying, and quick to make, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

I was inspired by how versatile Mexican food can be. From these gourmet bean tacos to my black bean quesadillas, I love finding new ways to use black beans in delicious, family-friendly meals.

I love these vegan black bean tacos because they check all the boxes. They are simple enough for a weeknight but still feel special when I make them for friends or family. As a nutritionist and health coach, I appreciate how much plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients these tacos provide. Each serving has 12 grams of protein and 14 grams of fiber, keeping me and my family full and energized.

My kids love taco night, and I’ve found that setting up a “toppings bar” with avocado, salsa, and extra veggies makes it fun for them to build their own. If they aren’t in the mood for something smoky, I swap the fire-roasted tomatoes for regular diced ones, and just like that, everyone is happy.

What makes these tacos the best is how easily they fit into any lifestyle. They are naturally gluten-free, fully plant-based, and loaded with real, whole ingredients. Whether I’m making these for Meatless Monday, a casual taco night, or prepping a quick meal to keep me fueled through a busy day, they always work. These tacos are for anyone who wants a flavorful, healthy meal that feels as good as it tastes. I can’t wait for you to try them!

🥘 Ingredients

Everything in this healthy black bean tacos recipe is easy to find, and you might already have most of it in your kitchen.

Ingredients for vegan black bean tacos recipe on a white background.

Cooking Oil: I like using olive oil to sauté everything because it adds a light flavor and healthy fats.

Tortillas: Soft corn tortillas are my go-to because they have the best flavor and are naturally gluten-free.

Vegetables: Red onion and bell pepper add color, crunch, and a balance of sweet and sharp flavors. Garlic makes everything taste better, and fire-roasted tomatoes bring in a smoky, slightly tangy touch.

Beans: Black beans are the star of these tacos, packed with plant-based protein and a hearty texture. I usually grab canned beans for convenience, or my vegan black beans leftovers works too.

Seasonings: A little salt makes all the flavors pop, and taco seasoning gives the filling that classic warm, savory taste. I always adjust to taste.

Extras for Flavor and Texture: Frozen corn adds a little sweetness and crunch, and chopped cilantro gives a fresh, zesty finish. Mashed avocado makes everything creamy and brings all the flavors together.

🍲 Substitutions

Tortillas: Almond flour tortillas are one of my favorite alternatives. My family loves them, and they work really well with these tacos.

Cilantro: If I don’t have fresh cilantro or just want to switch things up, I use shredded lettuce or fresh parsley instead. Both add a nice fresh touch.

Beans: When I want a change from black beans, pinto beans are my go-to because they have a similar texture. Red lentils also work as a great substitute and make the tacos just as hearty.

🔪 How To Make

I always start by prepping everything so I can move quickly through the cooking process. Here’s how to make this easy vegan black bean tacos recipe.

Prepare Tortillas: I warm them in the oven on a baking sheet or heat them in a dry skillet for a couple of minutes until they’re soft and pliable. If I’m using the microwave, I place a damp paper towel underneath and over the tortillas to keep them from drying out, then microwave for about 15 to 30 seconds. While they’re warming, I chop all my veggies and toppings so everything is ready to assemble.

corn tortillas

Make The Black Bean Taco Filling: I heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. I sauté the onion, black beans, peppers, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, and garlic, then season everything with salt and taco seasoning. I let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.

veggies and black beans in a large pan

Prep Avocado: While the black bean filling is cooking, I take a moment to prepare the rest of the ingredients. I mash the avocado until it’s nice and creamy, then mix in a little salt and fresh lime juice to bring out the flavor.

avocado mashed in a bowl

Assemble Tacos: When I’m ready to assemble my tacos, I start with my warm tortillas to keep them soft and flexible. I add a generous scoop of the black bean mixture, then top it with creamy mashed avocado or guacamole and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

vegan tacos with black beans, avocado, veggies, and cilantro, served on a white plate

My #1 Secret Tip for making the best Vegan Black Bean Tacos is warming the corn tortillas before assembling. It may seem like a small step, but it makes all the difference. A warm tortilla is soft, flexible, and less likely to tear, which helps hold everything together.

Other Tips To Keep In Mind:

  • More Texture: I love adding shredded cabbage or pickled onions when I want extra crunch. They bring a nice contrast to the soft taco filling.
  • Homemade Seasoning: Making my own taco seasoning is so easy and adds so much more flavor. I just mix together a few simple pantry spices, and it tastes better than store-bought.
  • Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a nice smoky depth to the filling. If I don’t have them, regular diced tomatoes work just fine.
  • Layering the Filling: I always start with the black bean mixture at the bottom of the tortilla. It helps hold everything together so the tacos don’t fall apart.
  • Extra Veggies: If I have extra veggies in the fridge, I toss them into the filling. Baby spinach wilts perfectly and blends right in.

📖 Variations

One of the things I love about these tacos is how easy they are to switch up based on what I’m craving.

Meaty Alternatives: When I want a heartier option, I crumble tofu and sauté it with taco seasoning for a delicious taco meat filling. If I’m making these for non-vegans, ground beef works too.

Try Different Salsas: I like to mix things up with different salsas like mango, tomatillo, pineapple pico de gallo, or even a simple vegan taco sauce. A drizzle of white cheese sauce is surprisingly good too.

Refried Beans: For a creamier texture, I sometimes swap whole black beans for vegan refried beans. It makes the filling extra rich and satisfying.

🍽 Serving Suggestions 

There are so many great sides to pair with these vegan black bean tacos, and honestly, I can’t pick just one favorite. I love them all, so here are a few of my go-to options:

Guacamole and Chips: I can never say no to my fresh guacamole with crispy tortilla chips. It’s the perfect side to scoop up all the extra taco goodness.

Rice: When I want a heartier meal, I add a bowl of my vegan Mexican rice on the side.

Salads: A fresh salad always balances out the tacos. I love a simple green salad or a refreshing Mexican fruit salad for a sweet and tangy contrast.

Soups: A warm bowl of soup makes these tacos feel extra cozy. Mexican bean soup or spicy Mexican corn soup are my favorites to pair with them.

🫙 Storage Directions

Refrigerating: I always store the ingredients separately to keep everything fresh. If I store assembled tacos, the tortillas get soggy, so I add fresh avocado and warm tortillas when I’m ready to eat.

Freezing: I freeze the filling and tortillas separately in an airtight container to keep their texture. I skip freezing avocado and cilantro since they’re best added fresh.

Reheating: I warm the tortillas and the filling separately, then assemble the tacos fresh. If the filling seems dry, I add a splash of water while reheating.

❓Recipe FAQs

SHOULD YOU RINSE BLACK BEANS FOR TACOS? 

I always rinse black beans before using them. If I skip this step, the extra liquid can make the taco shell soggy and create a mess while eating. I also like to use a slotted spoon when assembling my tacos to make sure I’m not adding too much moisture to the tortilla. It keeps everything fresh and easy to eat.

WHICH TORTILLAS ARE BEST FOR TACOS?

I really enjoy using corn tortillas for tacos because they have great flavor and are naturally gluten-free. You can also use a flour tortilla for tacos (which tend to be softer than corn). If you do, I recommend using a whole wheat or sprouted wheat flour tortilla for added fiber and whole grains. You can also try a corn + wheat flour tortilla for the best of both worlds! My black bean vegetarian tacos taste great no matter what!

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

I always warm my tortillas before assembling the tacos. It makes them more flexible and less likely to tear.

Vegan black bean tacos with beans, avocado, veggies, and cilantro, served on a white plate.

Love this plant based mexican recipe? Please leave a 5-star rating 🌟 in the recipe below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page!

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📋 Recipe Card

Vegan black bean tacos with beans, avocado, veggies, and cilantro, served on a white plate.
Print Recipe
5 from 20 votes

Vegan Black Bean Tacos

These healthy and delicious Vegan Black Bean Tacos make the perfect easy weeknight meal. I packed them with black beans, fresh veggies, warm spices, and flavorful toppings, creating a satisfying dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for the whole family.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Vegan
Diet: Gluten Free, Low Fat, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings: servings
Calories: 357kcal
Author: Anjali Shah

Ingredients

Shop Ingredients on Jupiter

Instructions

  • Warm corn tortillas in the oven or microwave and chop all your veggies/toppings
  • Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tsp olive oil and saute the onion, black beans, peppers, tomatoes, corn, garlic, salt and taco seasoning until heated through – about 10 minutes.
  • While the bean mixture is cooking, mash your avocado and add salt & lime juice to taste.
  • Assemble your tacos! Start with your tortilla, add the bean mixture, top with mashed avocado/guac and cilantro.

Notes

  • My #1 Secret Tip for making the best Vegan Black Bean Tacos is warming the corn tortillas before assembling. It may seem like a small step, but it makes all the difference. A warm tortilla is soft, flexible, and less likely to tear, which helps hold everything together.
  • More Texture: I love adding shredded cabbage or pickled onions when I want extra crunch. They bring a nice contrast to the soft taco filling.
  • Homemade Seasoning: Making my own taco seasoning is so easy and adds so much more flavor. I just mix together a few simple pantry spices, and it tastes better than store-bought.
  • Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a nice smoky depth to the filling. If I don’t have them, regular diced tomatoes work just fine.
  • Layering the Filling: I always start with the black bean mixture at the bottom of the tortilla. It helps hold everything together so the tacos don’t fall apart.
  • Extra Veggies: If I have extra veggies in the fridge, I toss them into the filling. Baby spinach wilts perfectly and blends right in.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tacos | Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 56.1g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 11.3g | Saturated Fat: 1.7g | Sodium: 489mg | Potassium: 922mg | Fiber: 14.3g | Sugar: 6g

44 responses to “Vegan Black Bean Tacos”

  1. We’ve been trying to eat less meat, so I made these tacos last night and everyone loved them! Definitely adding to our regular rotation!5 stars

  2. So simple, inexpensive and overall delicious! Nobody missed the meat in these last night! Great recipe – will definitely make them again soon!5 stars

  3. We needed a quick dinner tonight between homework and after-school activities. These tacos were so fast to make and it was so delicious. Thanks for the recipe!5 stars

  4. Not really a fan of black beans but this is surprisingly delicious! I’m going to serve this on our next taco Tuesday.5 stars

5 from 20 votes (1 rating without comment)

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