These homemade vegan taquitos are a delightful fusion of crispy corn tortillas filled with a savory mixture of black beans and butternut squash, seasoned to perfection. Baked until golden and served with fresh corn salsa and a zesty cilantro lime crema, they make for a satisfying meal or appetizer that’s both nutritious and full of flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Taquitos:

1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
1/2 small yellow onion, diced
1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
10-ounce bag frozen butternut squash
2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups vegan shredded cheddar cheese
12 corn tortillas, warmed
Cooking spray

For the Cilantro Lime Crema:

1/2 cup vegan sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste

For the Corn Salsa:

2 cups sweet white corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen)
3 tablespoons red onion, diced
1 jalapeño, minced
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, minced
Juice of 1 lime

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced jalapeño, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the butternut squash, black beans, and chipotle in adobo sauce. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the mixture is tender and well combined.
Assemble the Taquitos: Divide the filling mixture and vegan shredded cheddar cheese evenly among the warmed corn tortillas. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, turning the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the taquitos are crispy and golden brown.
Prepare the Cilantro Lime Crema: While the taquitos are baking, combine the vegan sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and set aside.
Prepare the Corn Salsa: In a medium bowl, mix together the corn kernels, diced red onion, minced jalapeño, minced cilantro, and lime juice. Stir well to combine.
Serve: Once the taquitos are done baking, serve them hot, drizzled with the cilantro lime crema and topped with the corn salsa. Enjoy immediately.

Nutritional Facts

The entire recipe yields approximately 2,471 calories, 110g of fat, 312g of carbohydrates, and 91g of protein. Divided into four servings, each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 618 kcal
Total Fat: 27.5g
Carbohydrates: 78g
Protein: 22.75g

What Makes This Recipe Special?

What sets these vegan taquitos apart is their wholesome ingredients and versatility. Traditional taquitos often feature meat and dairy, but this vegan version replaces those ingredients with plant-based alternatives, making it suitable for people following vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free diets. The filling is made from butternut squash and black beans, both of which are incredibly nutritious. Butternut squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, while black beans provide protein, iron, and other essential minerals.

The recipe also uses corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free, ensuring that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this dish without worry. The combination of the crispy baked tortillas with the creamy filling creates a satisfying texture contrast, making every bite a delightful experience. In addition, the cilantro lime crema and corn salsa offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the taquitos, enhancing their overall flavor.

Health Benefits of Vegan Taquitos

Vegan taquitos are not only a flavorful dish but also a healthy one. Let’s dive into the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used in this recipe:

Black Beans: Black beans are a fantastic plant-based protein source. They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Black beans also contain folate, a B-vitamin important for cell growth and metabolism. Additionally, the iron content in black beans supports healthy blood circulation and energy levels.
Butternut Squash: This vibrant orange vegetable is packed with essential vitamins, such as vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. Butternut squash is also an excellent source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. The high fiber content of butternut squash also contributes to better digestion and supports gut health.
Vegan Cheddar Cheese: Many vegan cheeses are made from nuts or soy, and they provide a creamy texture without the need for dairy. Vegan cheddar cheese is often fortified with vitamins like B12, making it a good option for those on a plant-based diet. It can also add a rich, savory flavor to dishes without contributing to cholesterol or saturated fat, which are often present in dairy products.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities. They are also lower in calories than their flour counterparts, making them a lighter option for those looking to manage their weight. Corn is also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
Fresh Vegetables and Herbs: The corn salsa and cilantro lime crema add a burst of freshness to the dish. The vegetables in the salsa—corn, red onion, and cilantro—are all nutrient-dense and provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The cilantro not only adds flavor but also has been shown to support detoxification in the body.

Why Baked and Not Fried?

One of the key benefits of this recipe is that the taquitos are baked, not fried. Fried taquitos are typically higher in fat and calories due to the oil they absorb during cooking. Baking the taquitos eliminates the need for excess oil, making them a healthier option without sacrificing the delicious crispy texture. This method also reduces the overall calorie content of the dish, making it a lighter option that can easily fit into a balanced meal plan.

Baking also allows the flavors of the filling to meld together as the taquitos cook, resulting in a crisp exterior and a warm, flavorful interior. The slight golden-brown color that forms on the taquitos adds an inviting visual appeal, making them even more appetizing.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the great advantages of this recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch of these taquitos, store them in an airtight container, and enjoy them throughout the week. Since they bake up crispy, you can also reheat them in the oven without losing their crunch, making them an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners.

To store the taquitos, simply allow them to cool to room temperature and then place them in the refrigerator. They will keep for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking. Just arrange the assembled taquitos on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen, and they’ll come out just as crispy and delicious as when they were first made.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily swap out the filling to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. If you’re not a fan of butternut squash, try using sweet potatoes or zucchini for a similar texture and flavor. You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to boost the nutrient content and add more variety.

For those who prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce or add extra jalapeños to the filling. If you’re not vegan, you could also substitute the vegan cheese with regular cheese for a different flavor profile.

Additionally, the cilantro lime crema can be made spicier by adding a bit of jalapeño or cayenne pepper, or you can make it milder by adjusting the amount of lime and cilantro used. The corn salsa is also highly adaptable—feel free to add diced tomatoes, avocados, or even a splash of hot sauce to make it your own.

How to Serve Vegan Taquitos

Vegan taquitos are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides and condiments. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside these crispy treats:

Guacamole: A creamy and flavorful guacamole is the perfect dip for vegan taquitos. The smooth texture of the avocado complements the crispy taquitos, and the slight acidity from the lime juice enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Mexican Rice: For a more filling meal, serve the taquitos with a side of Mexican rice. The fluffy rice, seasoned with cumin, garlic, and tomato, will balance out the flavors of the taquitos and add a comforting element to the meal.
Refried Beans: A classic side dish to accompany taquitos is refried beans. You can use black beans or pinto beans, or even make your own from scratch. The creamy texture of the refried beans pairs perfectly with the crispy taquitos.
Salsa: If you want to add more flavor, serve your taquitos with your favorite salsa—whether it’s a mild tomato salsa, a spicy red salsa, or a refreshing pico de gallo. The fresh, tangy flavors of the salsa will complement the richness of the taquitos.

Conclusion

Vegan taquitos are a fantastic, health-conscious alternative to the traditional fried version, offering all the crispy goodness without the guilt. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them to your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, a fun appetizer for a gathering, or a meal prep option for the week, these taquitos will not disappoint.

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