Purslane and Avocado Tacos

Prep: 20 mins Cook: 15 mins Difficulty: Easy Serves: 6
kcal fat saturates carbs
261 16g 3g 27g
sugars fibre protein salt
3g 6g 7g 0.85g

There’s something particularly special about the Purslane and Avocado Tacos recipe that makes me want to share it with the rest of the world. It’s a refreshing deviation from my usual repertoire of New England seafood and Irish stews, but it never fails to amaze me how simple, plant-based meals can pack such an explosion of flavor.

The Story Behind the Greens

I can’t help but recall the first time I came across purslane at a local farmers market. It was unassuming, leafy, and vibrant – a wildcard ingredient my Irish grandmother would’ve loved to experiment with. She believed in the power of greens, always telling stories of how her ancestors utilized every part of the earth for sustenance. Purslane, as I later discovered, was no exception. This plant, often dismissed as a weed, is actually jam-packed with nutrients (source). It’s loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, among others – an underrated superstar that truly embodies the phrase “small but mighty”.

A Recipe for the Heart

The Purslane and Avocado Tacos aren’t just rich in flavor – they’re also beneficial for heart health. Once you combine the hefty dose of Omega-3s from the purslane with the monounsaturated fats from the ripe avocados (source), you’re left with a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. And get this: you even have the option to add crumbled queso fresco. The cheese acts as the perfect balance to the greens, livening your palette while providing a healthy serving of essential calcium and protein.

These tacos remind me of similar dishes like grilled vegetables on flatbread, especially when enhanced by a splash of lime and a dash of cilantro. You can also enjoy them alongside a bowl of spicy black bean soup, or maybe some roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying, all-veggie night. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, perfectly suited to whatever pairings your heart – and stomach – might desire.

So there you have it: a homemade feast that marries nutrition and flavor in a simple yet sublime way. It’s a nod to my partner Laura’s love for all things fresh and natural, a new family favorite our baby boy can’t seem to get enough of. As for me, it’s a culinary adventure that bridges the gap between my heritage and my present, a timeless blend of the old-world charm and innovative spirit I’ve grown to cherish. Here’s to gourmet gurus, kitchen novices, and taco enthusiasts alike – may your days be filled with the same joy these Purslane and Avocado Tacos bring to mine.

What You’ll Need

  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 2 large ripe avocados
  • 2 cups fresh purslane leaves
  • 2 large tomatoes, diced
  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 6 ounces queso fresco, crumbled
ALLERGENS: Corn

Method

Step One

Firstly, warm your corn tortillas slightly in a toaster. Toast them until they are flexible but not crispy. Set aside for later.

Step Two

Next, prepare your fillings. Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Roughly chop the avocados and place them into a large bowl. Add the fresh purslane leaves to the bowl.

Step Three

Now, add your diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped jalapeño peppers into the bowl with the avocados and purslane leaves. Toss gently so you don’t crush the avocado pieces.

Step Four

Next, wash and chop your fresh cilantro. Squeeze the juice from the lime over the avocado and vegetable mixture in your bowl. Drizzle over the extra virgin olive oil. Scatter over the chopped cilantro. Season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step Five

Gently mix all of the ingredients until they are well combined in the bowl. Be careful not to mash the avocados.

Step Six

To assemble your tacos, take a warmed corn tortilla and spoon a portion of the avocado and vegetable mixture onto its center. Sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled queso fresco on top. Fold the tortilla in half around the filling.

Step Seven

Repeat the above step with the remaining tortillas and filling. Serve your Purslane and Avocado Tacos immediately and enjoy !

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