Easy Taco Night
This recipe combines flavorful tacos with creamy guacamole for a satisfying and nutrient-rich meal. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, it’s a balanced and delicious option for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef (lean, organic if possible)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if meat is very lean)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp oregano, ¼ tsp salt, pinch of cayenne)
- ½ cup water
- 8 small corn tortillas (or gluten-free tortillas)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Optional toppings: salsa, hot sauce, or plain Greek yogurt
For the Guacamole:
- 2 large ripe avocados
- ½ small white onion, (finely diced)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, (chopped)
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, (finely chopped)
- Optional: 1 small tomato, (diced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil if using, then cook ground turkey or beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat tortillas on a dry skillet for 1 minute per side or wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F oven.
- Make the Guacamole:
- Cut avocados in half, scoop out the flesh, and mash in a bowl with a fork.
- Stir in diced onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Add optional jalapeño or tomato for more flavor.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Layer each tortilla with meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese (if using). Top with salsa, hot sauce, or yogurt as desired.
- Serve:
- Pair tacos with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips or spoon guacamole directly onto the tacos for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, 2 Tacos + 2 Tbsp Guacamole)
- Protein: ~23g
- Fat: ~17g (including monounsaturated fats from avocado)
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~7g
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~580mg
Grocery List
Produce:
- 2 large avocados
- Small white onion
- Fresh cilantro
- 1 lime
- Shredded lettuce
- Cherry tomatoes
Meat:
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
Dairy (Optional):
- Shredded cheese
- Plain Greek yogurt
Pantry:
- Olive oil
- Taco seasoning packet or spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, salt)
- 8 small corn tortillas
This taco night recipe is as convenient as it is nutrient-packed. The guacamole provides heart-healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin C, while the tacos offer a great mix of lean protein and veggies for a balanced meal.
