If you’re looking for looking for the best plant-based nacho recipe, look no further. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by this vegan twist on the classic favorite – Pumpkin Seed Nachos. Packed with flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients, these nachos are perfect for satisfying your cravings while keeping it plant-based. Let’s look into the recipe and how each ingredient contributes to creating such a flavorful dish.
Ingredients
PUMFU by Foodie’s Vegan: This plant-based alternative to meat provides a hearty and satisfying base for your nachos. PUMFU, made from pumpkin seeds, is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Organic Tortilla Chips: Choose high-quality organic tortilla chips as the crunchy foundation for your nachos. Opt for varieties made with whole grains and minimal added oils or preservatives for a healthier option.
Mild Taco Seasoning by Siete: Elevate the flavor of your nachos with a sprinkle of mild taco seasoning by Siete. This natural blend of spices adds a delicious Mexican-inspired flair to your dish without overpowering the other flavors.
Dairy-Free Cheddar Shreds: Create a melty, cheesy layer on top of your nachos with dairy-free cheddar shreds. Made from plant-based ingredients like coconut oil and nutritional yeast, these shreds offer the perfect cheesy goodness without any dairy. My favorite brands are Follow Your Heart & SoDelicious.
Unsweetened Plant Milk: Use unsweetened plant milk to create a creamy cheese sauce that binds all the ingredients together. Opt for varieties like almond or cashew milk for a rich and creamy texture.
Minced Garlic: Add depth of flavor to your nachos with minced garlic. Garlic not only enhances the taste but also offers numerous health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and heart health support.
Red Onion: Incorporate diced red onion for a pop of color and zesty flavor. Red onion adds a refreshing crunch to your nachos while providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Green Onion: Garnish your nachos with chopped green onions for a fresh and vibrant touch. Green onions lend a mild onion flavor and visual appeal to your dish, making it even more appetizing.
Tomato: Dice fresh tomatoes and scatter them over your nachos for juicy bursts of sweetness and acidity. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your snack.
Spinach or Lettuce: Add a dose of green goodness to your nachos with fresh spinach or lettuce leaves. These leafy greens provide essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, enhancing the nutritional profile of your dish.
Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over your nachos for a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor. Cilantro adds brightness and complexity to the dish, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients.
Avocado Oil for Cooking: Use avocado oil for cooking the PUMFU and sautéing the garlic and onions. Avocado oil is rich in healthy fats and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking methods like frying and sautéing.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread a layer of organic tortilla chips evenly on the baking sheet.
- In a skillet, heat a drizzle of avocado oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and diced red onion until softened and fragrant.
- Add the PUMFU to the same skillet and sprinkle with mild taco seasoning. Cook until lightly browned and crispy, stirring occasionally.
- In a small saucepan, heat unsweetened plant milk over low heat. Add dairy-free cheddar shreds and stir until melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce. Optional: add in mild taco seasoning and minced garlic for more flavor.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the tortilla chips, then top with cooked PUMFU, diced tomatoes, and chopped spinach or lettuce.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the nachos are heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
- Serve your pumpkin seed vegan nachos hot, with slices of ripe avocado on the side for extra creaminess and flavor.
Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, these Pumpkin Seed Nachos are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or taco night. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or simply looking for a delicious and nutritious snack, these nachos are a must-try.