
This hearty Green Goddess Tacos recipe brings a vibrant, plant-based twist to taco night with seasoned chickpeas, crispy Brussels sprouts, and a fresh herb-packed dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
Last summer, I served these tacos at a family gathering, and even my meat-loving uncle couldn't resist going back for seconds. The combination of fresh herbs in the green goddess dressing with the perfectly spiced chickpeas creates an irresistible flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: Choose low sodium canned chickpeas for convenience or cook dried ones for extra savings. Drain and rinse well to ensure the perfect texture
- Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green tightly packed heads. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender
- Corn Tortillas: Select tortillas made with simple ingredients corn lime and salt. Fresh local tortillas will dramatically improve your tacos
- Avocado: Pick slightly firm avocados that yield to gentle pressure. They should feel heavy for their size
- Fresh Herbs: Choose bright crisp cilantro without any yellowing. Fresh herbs are crucial for the authentic green goddess flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing:
- Blend your fresh herbs until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings remembering the flavors will develop as it sits. Set aside to let the flavors meld while preparing other ingredients.
- Prepare Your Fresh Components:
- Slice Brussels sprouts as thinly as possible creating a delicate slaw like texture. Finely chop green onions separating white and green parts. Rough chop cilantro including tender stems for extra flavor. Slice avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Create the Chickpea Filling:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat until you can feel warmth hovering over it. Add diced onion to the dry pan stirring frequently to prevent sticking. When onions become translucent add chickpeas and let them develop a slight crust. Sprinkle in cumin garlic and smoked paprika stirring to coat evenly. Add water gradually creating a light sauce that clings to the chickpeas.
- Warm and Prepare Tortillas:
- Heat each tortilla individually over an open flame watching for light charring. Flip continuously to prevent burning and ensure even heating. Keep warm in a kitchen towel while preparing remaining tortillas.
- Final Assembly:
- Layer each tortilla with the seasoned chickpea mixture. Top with shaved Brussels sprouts and green onions. Add sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. Drizzle generously with green goddess dressing. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime.
My daughter, who typically avoids anything green, discovered her love for Brussels sprouts through these tacos. The fine shredding and fresh dressing completely transformed her perception of this wonderful vegetable.
Make-Ahead Magic
The components of these Green Goddess Tacos store beautifully when kept separate. Prepare the chickpea filling and green goddess dressing up to four days ahead and refrigerate in airtight containers. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chickpeas, warm your tortillas, and add the fresh toppings. This makes meal planning incredibly simple while ensuring you enjoy the perfect texture contrast in every bite.
Seasonal Adaptations
These tacos welcome seasonal changes with open arms. In summer, add fresh corn kernels cut straight from the cob for sweet pops of flavor. Fall calls for roasted sweet potato cubes alongside the chickpeas. Winter versions benefit from massaged kale in place of some Brussels sprouts, while spring welcomes tender asparagus tips and radish slices. The green goddess dressing provides a consistent flavor bridge across all seasons.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these Green Goddess Tacos become a memorable feast when served with complementary sides. I particularly love pairing them with a simple cabbage slaw tossed in lime juice and a pinch of salt. A side of black beans with cumin and orange zest adds protein and complexity. For special occasions, offer a strawberry jalapeño salsa that provides a stunning sweet heat contrast to the herbal dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare everything beforehand?
- Absolutely! Keep the cooked chickpeas, toppings, and tortillas in separate containers. Warm things up and assemble when you're ready.
- → How long will these keep in the fridge?
- If stored separately, the components can stay fresh for about 4 days in the fridge.
- → What’s the easiest way to heat tortillas?
- Try warming them over a flame for a few seconds, searing them in a skillet, or microwaving wrapped in a damp towel.
- → Can I switch out Brussels sprouts?
- You bet! Use cabbage, greens, or any crunchy veggie you like to replace the Brussels sprouts.
- → Do I need the green goddess dressing?
- It’s ideal for flavor, but feel free to use any vegan sauce or dressing you prefer.