Smashed Lentil Tacos Dorados
with Queso & Orange-Avocado Salad
"Dorados," meaning golden in Spanish, refers to crispy, fried tacos, typically filled with shredded chicken, beef, chorizo, or potatoes. Our new favorite chile con queso and smashed black lentils give these tacos dorados a bold, cheesy filling packed with protein and fiber. Juicy, creamy orange-avocado salad contrasts and complements the crunchy tortilla shells of these crispy tacos.
Nutrition (per serving)
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INGREDIENTS
- 1 red onion, peeled and chopped (divided)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 6 oz beluga lentils
- 1 Valencia orange, peeled and chopped
- 4 oz mixed greens
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 avocado, halved, peeled and chopped
- 6 yellow corn tortillas
- 6 oz chile con queso (divided)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil*
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil*
- Salt*
- Pepper*
Nutrition (per serving)
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INSTRUCTIONS
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add just half the onion and cook until softened and beginning to brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, lentils, 3 tbsp water, and a pinch of salt and pepper and cook, using back of fork to mash lentils until they start to stick together and become creamy, 1 to 2 minutes. Cover to keep warm and set aside. (4-servings: use 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 6 tbsp water)
Combine remaining onion, orange, mixed greens, vinegar, avocado, 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in medium bowl and toss to coat. (4-servings: use 2 tbsp olive oil)
Warm tortillas, one at a time, in large nonstick skillet over medium heat until warm and pliable, about 1 minute per side. Lay tortillas on clean work surface. Divide lentil filling between tortillas and spread into even layer on one half of tortilla. Top each with just 2 tsp chile con queso and fold tortillas in half. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in same skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tacos and cook until crispy, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to plate and repeat with remaining tacos and oil. (TIP: For 4-servings, cook tacos in batches of 3.)
Microwave remaining queso until melted and smooth, about 30 seconds, stirring halfway through. Divide orange-avocado salad and tacos dorados between serving plates. Serve with hot sauce and remaining queso. ¡Buen provecho!