Loaded Vegetarian Nachos 

These Loaded Vegetarian Nachos are a vibrant and satisfying twist on the classic Tex Mex favorite. Perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or a fun weeknight meal, this dish combines crispy tortilla chips with a medley of fresh vegetables, hearty black beans, and gooey melted cheese. Topped with creamy avocado crema and fresh cilantro, it's a crowd pleasing delight that's both flavorful and customizable.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Nachos:

• 8 oz sturdy tortilla chips (enough to cover the bottom of a sheet pan with some overlapping)

• 1 can (15 oz) low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

• ½ red onion, finely chopped

• 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)

• 8 oz thickly shredded cheddar jack or Mexican-style blend cheese

• ½ cup salsa (fresh pico de gallo or jarred, optional)

For the Avocado Crema:

• 1 ripe avocado

• Juice of 1 lime

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish

• 2 cloves garlic

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper, foil, or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Nachos: Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan, allowing for slight overlap. Evenly distribute the black beans, chopped red bell pepper, red onion, and sliced jalapeño over the chips. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top, ensuring all ingredients are well-covered.

3. Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chips are crispy.

4. Prepare the Avocado Crema: While the nachos are baking, combine the avocado, lime juice, fresh cilantro, garlic, salt, and water in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Assemble and Serve: Once the nachos are baked, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the avocado crema over the top. Add a spoonful of salsa if desired. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 495 kcal

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 25.8g

• Carbohydrates: 47.6g

• Fiber: 6.5g

• Sodium: 647mg

• Cholesterol: 45mg

• Calcium: Approximately 425mg

• Iron: Approximately 8mg