Best 3 Zesty Tacos Recipes

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Buckle up for a tantalizing journey into the realm of zesty tacos, where flavors dance on your palate like a fiesta. Discover the secrets to creating tacos that burst with vibrant spices, tangy sauces, and the irresistible crunch of fresh vegetables. Whether you're a seasoned taco connoisseur or just starting your exploration, this article will guide you through the essential elements of a perfect taco, ensuring each bite is an explosion of zesty goodness. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

ZESTY CARNITAS TACOS



Zesty Carnitas Tacos image

Lime juice in the crema give these tacos a good zing!

Provided by Doug

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     Latin American     Mexican

Time 4h30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 (2 pound) boneless pork shoulder roast
½ cup chopped onion
⅓ cup orange juice
1 tablespoon cumin
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 lime, zested and juiced
2 (5.3 ounce) containers plain fat-free Greek yogurt
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 pinch chili powder
16 (6 inch) soft yellow corn tortillas
4 leaves green cabbage, shredded
1 cup very thinly sliced red onion
1 cup pico de gallo

Steps:

  • Carnitas: Trim fat from pork. Cut pork into 2- to 3-inch pieces; transfer to a 4-quart slow cooker. Stir in onion, orange juice, cumin, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, oregano, and cayenne.
  • Cover and cook on Low 8 to 10 hours, or on High 4 to 5 hours. Transfer pork to a large bowl; shred using 2 forks. Add enough cooking liquid from slow cooker to moisten.
  • Lime Crema: Add 2 tablespoons lime juice to a small bowl. Stir in yogurt and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Dust with chili powder.
  • Tacos: Serve pork in tortillas with cabbage, red onion, and pico de gallo (if using). Garnish with crema and lime zest.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 338.4 calories, Carbohydrate 32.5 g, Cholesterol 52.6 mg, Fat 16 g, Fiber 5.1 g, Protein 17.9 g, SaturatedFat 6 g, Sodium 761.4 mg, Sugar 5.5 g

ZESTY CHICKEN SOFT TACOS



Zesty Chicken Soft Tacos image

We've made these tacos with corn and flour tortillas, but naan flatbread is our favorite. Set out toppings and let people make their own. -Jessie Grearson-Sapat, Falmouth, Maine

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 25m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice
1-1/2 teaspoons grated lime zest
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
6 naan flatbreads, warmed
1 rotisserie chicken, skin removed, shredded
Minced fresh cilantro, optional

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, mix the first six ingredients. Spread over flatbreads; top with chicken and, if desired, cilantro.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 420 calories, Fat 14g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 111mg cholesterol, Sodium 942mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 37g protein.

ZESTY TACOS



Zesty Tacos image

Jazz up everyday tacos in a snap! Black-eyed peas and a drizzle of Italian dressing are the surprise ingredients that perk up this recipe. -Susie Bonham, Fairview, Oklahoma

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 30m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 pound ground beef
1 cup water
1 envelope taco seasoning
8 taco shells
1 can (15-1/2 ounces) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup zesty Italian salad dressing

Steps:

  • In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4-5 minutes or until thickened., Meanwhile, prepare taco shells according to package directions. Stir peas into skillet; heat through. Spoon 1/4 cup beef mixture into each taco shell. Top with tomatoes, lettuce and cheese. Drizzle with salad dressing.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 302 calories, Fat 17g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 43mg cholesterol, Sodium 933mg sodium, Carbohydrate 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 17g protein.

Tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of your tacos. Use fresh, ripe vegetables, flavorful meat, and high-quality cheese and tortillas.
  • Marinate your meat: Marinating your meat will help to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. You can use a variety of marinades, such as a simple mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, or a more complex marinade with spices and citrus.
  • Cook your meat properly: The type of meat you are using will determine the best cooking method. For example, chicken and fish should be cooked until they are cooked through, while steak can be cooked to your desired doneness.
  • Assemble your tacos just before serving: Tacos are best when they are served fresh. Assemble them just before serving to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment: There are endless possibilities when it comes to making tacos. Try different combinations of meat, vegetables, and toppings to find your favorite taco recipe.

Conclusion:

Tacos are a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With so many different ways to make them, there is sure to be a taco recipe that everyone will love. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal, give tacos a try. You won't be disappointed!

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