just better.® Recipe of the Week:
Fiesta Lentil Taco Filling
Taco night just got a legume-loving upgrade! This week’s recipe puts lentils in the spotlight as a hearty, flavorful filling that’s easy to make and packed with plant-based goodness. With warm spices and the added gut-health benefits of just better.® Prebiotic Fiber, this dish is a delicious way to mix things up!
This week’s ingredient spotlight: Lentils
Lentils are a small-but-mighty staple packed with plant-based protein, iron, and folate, making them perfect for supporting energy production and healthy red blood cells. Their mild, earthy flavor and tender texture make them incredibly versatile—ideal for soups, salads, or, in this case, a taco filling that will have everyone smiling on Taco Night!
Fiesta Lentil Taco Filling
Ingredients
1 cup dry lentils (brown or green), rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water, plus ½ cup reserved
1 Tablespoon avocado oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 Tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
¼ cup just better.® Prebiotic Fiber
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: diced avocado, shredded lettuce, jicama sticks, salsa, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro
Directions
In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking liquid, then drain any excess.
In a large skillet, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add tomato paste, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly, then mix in cooked lentils and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Gradually add the reserved broth or water, a splash at a time, to achieve the desired taco filling consistency.
Reduce heat to low and stir in just better.® Prebiotic Fiber, ensuring it is fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve warm in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings!
Tips for the Perfect Taco Filling
Keep it Moist: To prevent the lentils from drying out, reserve extra broth and add it gradually during cooking to maintain a soft, taco-friendly consistency.
Make It Your Own: Add your favorite toppings, like fresh salsa, creamy avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a vibrant finishing touch.
Cooking with just better.® Prebiotic Fiber
just better.® Prebiotic Fiber pairs perfectly with this recipe, complementing the hearty lentils and spices while enhancing its nutritional benefits. It supports gut and heart health and balanced blood sugars—turning a flavorful meal into a simple way to prioritize your wellness goals.
😉 Taco night got just better.® with this Fiesta Lentil Taco Filling. Gather your favorite toppings, grab your tortillas, and dig in!
Live… just better.®!
