Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's offerings include Smoked Pork Tacos and Ice Cream Tacos. Do I have your attention yet? Enjoy!

EASY KOREAN BARBECUE BEEF TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Get the fresh, rich flavors of Korean barbecue without the hassle with these easy ground beef tacos."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes: 10 Servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-korean-barbecue-beef-tacos.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)

1/2 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Korean Inspired Barbecue World Taco Kit

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (4 oz)

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1/2 cup shredded carrot

1/4 cup sliced green onions

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While beef is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide cheese among tortillas; top with beef, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, carrot, green onions and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

Like it hot? Top with some chopped spicy kimchi.

Shredded Napa cabbage or lettuce make nice substitutes for the red cabbage.

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

CHICKEN NACHO TACOS

This comes from Campbells, and begins, "These tasty tacos combine a few on-hand ingredients with canned chicken and fiesta nacho cheese soup to make a delicious dish super-simple!"

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Calories: 300/serving

To view this online, go to https://www.campbells.com/recipes/chicken-nacho-tacos/.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbells® Condensed Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup

8 taco shell, warmed

1 cup shredded lettuce

1/2 cup chopped tomato

Directions

Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and chili powder and cook until the onion is tender, stirring often.

Stir the soup and chicken in the skillet and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling. Spoon the chicken mixture into the taco shells. Top with the lettuce and tomato.

SMOKED PORK TACOS

This comes from Elizabeth Helskell on the Today Show site. The recipe begins, "Using store-bought pulled pork makes these tacos super quick to throw together. Just warm, assemble and serve.

"Technique tip: When using cilantro, rinse very well, roll in damp paper towel and place in airtight container. This will extend the freshness of this precious herb by one week.

"Swap option: Smoked chicken would be equally delicious."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Makes 4 servings

You can find this recipe online at https://www.today.com/recipes/smoked-pork-tacos-recipe-t206530.

Ingredients

8 flour or corn tortillas

2 pounds store-bought pulled pork shoulder with barbecue sauce

2 cups queso dip

1 cup pickled jalapeños

1 cup sour cream

1/2 red onion, chopped

fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Directions

Place tortillas on flat surface. In center of each tortilla, place pulled pork in center and drizzle with queso. Top with jalapeños and sour cream. Top with barbecue sauce and cilantro and serve.

OUTRAGEOUS RANCH TACOS

This is from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/outrageous-ranch-tacos/.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

1 packet (1.25 ounces) taco seasoning mix

3 cups shredded lettuce

1/2 cup Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® dressing

8 large taco shells, heated

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 medium tomato, seeded and diced

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the ground beef and taco seasoning and cook for about 10 minutes, or until browned; drain.

In a large bowl, toss the lettuce with the dressing until evenly coated.

Fill each taco shell with the beef mixture and top with lettuce, cheese and tomato. Serve immediately.

Notes: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.

For dips, make and enjoy your dip creation. Then, refrigerate within 2 hours or discard.

ICE CREAM TACOS

I can hear it now: Ice cream tacos??? Are you crazy?

Well, maybe. But this recipe is definitely something that makes for a perfect dessert – especially on Taco Tuesday.

This is from Leah Maroney, who, besides writing for The Spruce Eats, has her own blog, Mini Pie Kitchen.

For this recipe, Leah wrote, “Move over Choco Tacos, these homemade ice cream tacos are in town. You only need flour tortillas, ice cream, and chocolate chips to make these babies a reality.

“Get a little crazy and make your own ice cream or your own waffle cone shells. Or keep it simple and use the store-bought kinds. You really can't go wrong.

“Ice cream tacos are a fun party treat or spin on popular on-the-go ice creams. Just make sure to serve and eat them quickly!”

Total: 4 hrs 35 mins; Prep: 4 hrs 35 mins; Cook: 0 mins; Yield: 6 ice cream tacos (serves 6)

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

6 flour tortillas (6-inch)

3 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon sugar

10 ounces semisweet chocolate chips

6 scoops vanilla ice cream (or other ice cream of your choice)

Garnish: sprinkles

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make 6 foil logs that are large enough so that the tortillas can drape over them to form a taco shell shape. Lay them on the parchment paper and drape the tortillas over each log.

Melt the butter in the microwave. Brush the butter over the top of each tortilla. Then sprinkle each tortilla with the sugar.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Remove them from the oven and allow to cool. Then place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 15 minutes or until very cold.

Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave in a microwave safe bowl for 30 second increments, stirring in between until it is completely smooth and melted.

Remove the bowl from the microwave and brush the melted chocolate on the inside of each shell until coated. Place the shells back in the freezer and freeze for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened completely.

While the shells are hardening again, take the ice cream out of the freezer and allow it to soften slightly. Fill each shell with a large scoop of ice cream to the top edge of the shell. Squeeze the shell slightly to disperse the ice cream, being careful not to break the shell.

Place it back onto the baking sheet and freeze again for 1 to 2 hours, until very firm.

Reheat the chocolate in 30 second increments until melted. Pour it into a loaf pan. Dip the top of each taco in the chocolate quickly, covering the ice cream and the top edges of the shell. You need to work quickly so that the ice cream does not mess. Spoon more onto the top of the tacos if needed and then sprinkle generously with sprinkles.

Place them back on the parchment paper and freeze again until the chocolate is completely hardened and then serve!

Taco Tuesday

It's that time again, time for another yummy Taco Tuesday. Today's offerings include Smoked Pork Tacos and Salsa Verde Scrambled Egg Tacos (along with other yummy taco goodness). Enjoy!

EASY KOREAN BARBECUE BEEF TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Get the fresh, rich flavors of Korean barbecue without the hassle with these easy ground beef tacos."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes: 10 Servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-korean-barbecue-beef-tacos.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)

1/2 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Korean Inspired Barbecue World Taco Kit

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (4 oz)

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1/2 cup shredded carrot

1/4 cup sliced green onions

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While beef is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide cheese among tortillas; top with beef, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, carrot, green onions and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

Like it hot? Top with some chopped spicy kimchi.

Shredded Napa cabbage or lettuce make nice substitutes for the red cabbage.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 230 (Calories from Fat 100); Total Fat 11g (Saturated Fat 5g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 40mg; Sodium 460mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 20%; Vitamin C 6%; Calcium 10%; Iron 10%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 180 (Calories from Fat 50); Total Fat 5g (Saturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 320mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 10%; Calcium 4%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

PULLED PORK TACOS WITH PINEAPPLE SLAW

This is from Delish. The recipe begins, “You'll want to use the pineapple slaw on everything.”

Yields: 8; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

4 lb. pork shoulder

1 c. barbecue sauce

1/2 c. brown sugar

Juice of 3 limes, divided

2 tbsp. garlic powder

2 tbsp. chili powder

2 tsp. cayenne pepper

1/2 head cabbage, shredded

1 whole pineapple, cut and diced

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 small red onion, sliced

2 green onions, sliced

1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

8 corn tortillas

Directions

In a 6-quart slow-cooker, add pork. In a medium bowl, combine barbecue sauce, brown sugar, juice of 2 limes, garlic powder, chili powder, and cayenne, then mix together into a thick paste and spread all over pork.

Cook on high for 5 to 6 hours or on low 8 to 9 hours, until tender, then shred.

When ready to eat, make pineapple slaw: Combine cabbage, pineapple, remaining lime juice, olive oil, red onions, green onions, and red pepper flakes.

Top tortillas with shredded pork and pineapple slaw.

TACO SPAGHETTI BAKE

This is from Betty Crocker kitchens, and begins, "This easy, family friendly casserole, dotted with melty pockets of cheese, proves that tacos and spaghetti are a match made in heaven."

Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Makes 8 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/taco-spaghetti-bake/d777fa4f-7a46-4106-a893-bbc49e9fa97c.

Ingredients

12 oz uncooked spaghetti

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

1 cup chopped onion

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix

1/4 cup water

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 can (14.5 oz) Muir Glen™ organic fire roasted diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (15 oz) Muir Glen™ organic tomato sauce

2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (8 oz)

8 oz Kraft™ Velveeta™ pasteurized prepared cheese product, cut in 1/2-inch cubes

Directions

Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Cook spaghetti to al dente as directed on package.

In 5-quart Dutch oven, cook beef and onion over medium heat 8 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until brown; drain. Stir in taco seasoning mix, water, chiles and cumin; stir until well blended. Cook 1 to 2 minutes or until slightly thickened. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese and the spaghetti; stir well to blend. Pour mixture into baking dish. Scatter cheese cubes throughout casserole, and push gently into pasta mixture. Top with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Expert Tips

Garnish with sour cream, sliced jalapeño chiles and chopped fresh cilantro.

Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe.

SMOKED PORK TACOS

This comes from Elizabeth Helskell on the Today Show site. The recipe begins, "Using store-bought pulled pork makes these tacos super quick to throw together. Just warm, assemble and serve.

"Technique tip: When using cilantro, rinse very well, roll in damp paper towel and place in airtight container. This will extend the freshness of this precious herb by one week.

"Swap option: Smoked chicken would be equally delicious."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Makes 4 servings

You can find this recipe online at https://www.today.com/recipes/smoked-pork-tacos-recipe-t206530.

Ingredients

8 flour or corn tortillas

2 pounds store-bought pulled pork shoulder with barbecue sauce

2 cups queso dip

1 cup pickled jalapeños

1 cup sour cream

1/2 red onion, chopped

fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Directions

Place tortillas on flat surface. In center of each tortilla, place pulled pork in center and drizzle with queso. Top with jalapeños and sour cream. Top with barbecue sauce and cilantro and serve.

SALSA VERDE SCRAMBLED EGG TACOS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Enjoy your scrambled eggs in a mini soft tortilla bowl with these delicious breakfast tacos, perfect for kids and adults! They’re topped with shredded cheese, fresh pico de gallo, avocado and Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde sauce."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 6 servings

View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/salsa-verde-scrambled-egg-tacos.

Ingredients

6 eggs

1/4 cup milk

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons butter

1 package (12 count) Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package

1/2 cup Old El Paso™ shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend

1/2 cup pico de gallo

1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, diced

1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde sauce

Preparation

In large bowl, beat eggs with whisk. Add milk and salt; beat well.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add egg mixture; cook 3 to 5 minutes, scraping cooked eggs up from bottom of skillet occasionally, until mixture is firm but still moist.

Divide eggs evenly among warm tortilla bowls. Top with cheese, pico de gallo and avocado; drizzle with sauce.

Expert Tips

Try chopped tomatoes in place of pico de gallo.

Kids love to help in the kitchen. After filling tortillas with eggs, let the kids top with their favorite cheese and fresh toppings!

Add cooked breakfast sausage to tacos for a flavor twist.

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's offerings include Southwest Turkey Tacos and Easy Jerk Chicken Tacos. Enjoy!

CHILI-LIME MUSHROOM TACOS

This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Greg Fontenot (The Woodlands, Texas), "I used to make this dish with beef, but substituting with portobella mushrooms turned it into my family's vegetarian favorite. It's quick, nutritious, low fat and tasty."

Prep/Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes: 4 servings

View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/chili-lime-mushroom-tacos/.

Ingredients

4 large portobello mushrooms (about 3/4 pound)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium sweet red pepper, cut into strips

1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon grated lime zest

2 tablespoons lime juice

8 corn tortillas (6 inches), warmed

1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Directions

Remove stems from mushrooms; if desired, remove gills using a spoon. Cut mushrooms into 1/2-in. slices.

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; saute mushrooms, red pepper and onion until mushrooms are tender, 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic, seasonings, lime zest and juice; cook and stir 1 minute. Serve in tortillas; top with cheese.

Health Tip: Making these tacos with lean ground beef adds almost 4 grams of saturated fat per serving. That’s a good reason for a meatless taco Tuesday!

GRILLED STEAK TACOS WITH CORN SALSA

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Upgrade your taco night with ease with these fresh veggie- and cheese-filled grilled steak tacos."

Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/grilled-steak-tacos-with-corn-salsa.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix

1 lb boneless beef sirloin steak, 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick

1/2 cup cooked corn kernels

1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

2 tablespoons diced red onion

3 cups fresh baby spinach

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (4 oz)

1 medium avocado, diced

1/4 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Directions

Heat gas or charcoal grill. In gallon-size resealable food-storage plastic bag, mix oil and taco seasoning mix. Add steak. Seal bag; turn to evenly coat. If not grilling immediately, place in refrigerator to marinate, up to 2 hours.

In medium bowl, mix corn, bell pepper and onion. Cover and refrigerate.

Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Place steak on grill over medium heat (350°F to 400°F). Cover grill; cook 9 to 11 minutes, turning once, for medium-rare doneness (145°F internal temperature) or until desired doneness. Transfer steak to cutting board, and cover loosely with foil; let rest 10 minutes.

Cut steak into thin strips across the grain; then cut strips into bite-size pieces.

Divide spinach among heated taco shells. Top with steak and cheese. Spoon salsa over taco shells; top with avocado and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

Use whatever kind of cooked corn you prefer. Canned, cooked frozen or cooked fresh corn all work well.

Try these additional fresh toppings: sliced radishes, sour cream and sliced jalapeños.

SWEET POTATO TACOS

This is from the TODAY Show, and begins, "These tacos are simple to make and require minimal prep, making them an ideal dinner on hectic weeknights. You can dress up this veggie-based meal with avocado, a squeeze of lime, crumbled feta cheese and fresh cilantro."

To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/sweet-potato-tacos-recipe-t149463.

Ingredients

2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

Extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon cumin

1 clove garlic, minced

1 onion, chopped

One 15.5-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained

One 15.25-ounce can corn, drained

1 cup cooked quinoa

18 small corn tortillas, warmed

Toppings (optional)

Avocado, chopped or sliced

Lime wedges

Feta cheese, crumbled

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, honey and cumin. Place on a rimmed baking sheet and roast in the oven for 35 minutes or until tender. Set aside.

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet set over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté. Add the black beans, corn, cooked quinoa and sweet potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon about 1/3 cup of filling onto each tortilla. Top with chopped avocado, a squeeze of lime and feta cheese.

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 180 (Calories from Fat 50); Total Fat 5g (Saturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 320mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 10%; Calcium 4%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

TACO SALAD WITH CUMIN DRESSING

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/taco-salad-with-cumin-dressing.

Ingredients

8 tortillas

1 teaspoon powdered mustard

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

1 teaspoon ground cumin

8 cups romaine lettuce

1/2 cup water

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 tablespoons red wine vinegar

4 cups turkey, chopped and cooked

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped

4 teaspoons lemon juice

2 cups cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

Toast the tortillas on a baking sheet in a 400F oven for about 10 minutes.

While hot, sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese.

Cool and break into bite-size pieces.

Chop the lettuce and arrange it in the bottom of a salad bowl.

Make the cumin dressing by combining the salt, vinegar, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, mustard, cumin, water and oil in a bowl or jar.

Heat the turkey in a skillet with the cumin seeds.

Sprinkle chunks of turkey over the lettuce.

Add the tomato pieces and cheese.

Pour on the cumin dressing and top with tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Fat: 11 g; Protein: 17 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Fat; 1/2 Bread/Starch; 1/2 Vegetable; 2 Lean Meat

SOUTHWEST TURKEY TACOS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Lean ground turkey, veggies and savory salsa meld in the slow cooker to make this deliciously easy taco filling."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/southwest-turkey-tacos.

Ingredients

1 package (20 oz) extra-lean ground turkey

1/2 cup chopped onion (1 medium)

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 cups Old El Paso™ Thick ‘n Chunky salsa

1 can (15 oz) Progresso™ black beans, drained

1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, drained, rinsed

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 boxes (4.6 oz each) Old El Paso™ taco shells (24 shells total)

3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro

3 cups chopped lettuce

3 medium tomatoes, chopped (1 1/2 cups)

Preparation

In 12-inch skillet, place turkey and onion; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until turkey is no longer pink.

Spray 3- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In cooker, mix turkey mixture, salsa, beans, corn and chili powder.

Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 to 7 hours.

To serve, heat taco shells in oven as directed on boxes. Stir cilantro into turkey mixture. Spoon about 1/4 cup mixture into each warm taco shell; top with lettuce and tomatoes.

Expert Tips

This taco mixture is also delicious served over rice and topped with chopped fresh cilantro.

Top with fat-free sour cream, if desired.

Exchanges:1 1/2 Starch; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Other Carbohydrate; 0 Skim Milk; 0 Low-Fat Milk; 0 Milk; 0 Vegetable; 0 Very Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 High-Fat Meat; 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choices:2 *Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Taco Tuesday

It's that time of week again: Taco Tuesday. Today's offerings include Beef Tacos with Mango Salsa and Grilled Steak Tacos with Cherry Tomato-Avocado Salsa. Enjoy!

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER TACOS WITH GREEK YOGURT RANCH

This is from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 2 - 4

To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/buffalo-cauliflower-tacos-with-greek-yogurt-ranch/.

Ingredients

1 cup Bob's Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-free Baking Flour (or sub white whole wheat flour)

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup water

1/2 tablespoon lemon pepper

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 head cauliflower

1/2 cup buffalo sauce

15 oz. can organic sweet kernel corn, rinsed and drained

8 gluten-free corn tortillas (or sub flour ones if you prefer)

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

1 cup mixed greens (or sub chopped red cabbage)

1/4 cup Hidden Valley® Greek Yogurt Ranch

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Combine the batter ingredients in a medium mixing bowl: flour, milk, water, lemon pepper and sea salt.

Break or cut the cauliflower into small 1 1/2 inch pieces.

Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying with nonstick spray.

Dip each cauliflower piece into the batter, completely covering it and then shake off any excess batter before laying it on the foil. Repeat for all cauliflower pieces being sure to lay them in a single layer without having them touch each other.

Bake for 15 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, over medium-high heat, cook your sweet kernel corn for approximately 10 minutes. Let it sit and stick to the bottom of the pan periodically so that it caramelizes and gets some of that charred look/flavor. Set aside.

Once the cauliflower is done baking (they should be lightly browned, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside), put the pieces in a bowl with the buffalo sauce and stir until completely covered.

Assemble your tacos immediately: corn tortillas, buffalo cauliflower, a spoonful of roasted corn, a pinch of diced cilantro and a drizzle of Hidden Valley® Greek Yogurt Ranch.

Note: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.

BEEF TACOS WITH MANGO SALSA

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Family taco night gets a summery twist with this easy beef taco topped with Monterey Jack cheese, shredded red cabbage and a fresh mango, red onion salsa."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 10 servings.

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tacos-with-mango-salsa.

Ingredient

1 ripe medium mango, seed removed, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)

2 tablespoons chopped red onion

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon honey

1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)

2/3 cup water

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1 1/4 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (5 oz)

1 1/4 cups shredded red cabbage

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Preparation

In small bowl, mix mango, red onion, lime juice and honey. Set aside.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide warmed beef mixture among heated taco shells. Top with cheese, cabbage, mango salsa and cilantro.

Expert Tips

No red cabbage? Use shredded green cabbage. If shredded cabbage has larger pieces, chop into smaller, more bite-size pieces.

To peel a mango, first stand the fruit on its end, and use a knife to cut straight down on either side, avoiding the large seed in the middle. Slice horizontally and crosswise on the flesh to make diced mango. To save time, purchase already peeled and sliced mango.

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

LIME CHICKEN TACOS

This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Tracy Gunter (of Boise, Idaho), "Our fun, simple chicken taco recipe is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad."

Prep: 10 minutes; Cook: 5 1/2 hours; Makes: 6 servings

View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/lime-chicken-tacos/.

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 cup frozen corn, thawed

1 cup chunky salsa

12 fat-free flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed

Optional: Sour cream, pickled onions, shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese

Directions

Place chicken in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Combine lime juice and chili powder; pour over chicken. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 5-6 hours.

Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred meat with 2 forks; return to slow cooker. Stir in corn and salsa. Cook, covered, on low until heated through, about 30 minutes. Place filling on tortillas; if desired, serve with sour cream, pickled onions, lettuce and cheese.

GRILLED STEAK TACOS WITH CHERRY TOMATO-AVOCADO SALSA

This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “In this supremely summery taco recipe, chile-rubbed grilled steak is topped with a spicy tomato-avocado salsa before being rolled into warm corn tortillas. Grilling the onions, garlic and jalapeño for the salsa adds a concentrated sweetness, while lime zest keeps everything sharp and bright. If you don’t have access to a grill, feel free to use your broiler.”

Yield: 8 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 1/2 teaspoons New Mexican or other mild chile powder

1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1 large garlic clove, finely grated or minced

Finely grated zest of 1 lime (cut lime into wedges for serving)

2 1/2 pounds skirt steak (usually 2 steaks)

For the Salsa:

1 white onion, peeled and sliced into 1-inch-thick slices

2 large garlic cloves, unpeeled

2 jalapeños

1 quart cherry tomatoes, quartered

1 avocado, diced

1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves and stems

2 teaspoons fresh lime juice, more to taste

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste

Corn or flour tortillas, for serving

Sliced radishes, for serving

Mexican crema or sour cream, for serving (optional)

Preparation

Prepare the steak: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, chile powder, coriander, cumin, garlic and lime zest. Rub mixture all over the steaks, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight.

Prepare the salsa: Light the grill or heat to medium-high (or heat the broiler). Grill onion, garlic and 1 jalapeño until tender and charred on all sides, 5 to 10 minutes (or place on a broiler pan and broil). Remove from heat until cool enough to handle, then roughly chop onions, peel garlic and remove seeds and stem from jalapeño.

Transfer grilled onion, garlic and jalapeño to a blender or mini food processor. Halve the fresh jalapeño and seed it, if desired, then add it to the blender. Process to a chunky paste. Scrape into a serving bowl and toss with tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, lime juice and salt.

Add more charcoal to the grill, if needed, and grill the steaks until done to taste, about 2 minutes per side for rare (or broil). Let meat rest on a cutting board covered with foil for at least 7 minutes. Meanwhile, grill or broil the tortillas until warm.

To serve, slice the meat across the grain, and serve with the warm tortillas, radishes, lime wedges, salsa and crema. Let people assemble their own tacos at the table.

GRILLED VEGETABLE AND BLACK BEAN FAJITAS

This yummy recipe is from The Scrumptious Pumpkin.

Total Time: 35 minutes; Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Yield: 12 fajitas, 6 servings (2 fajitas per serving; Difficulty: Easy

To view this online, click here

Ingredients

For the Grilled Vegetable and Black Bean Fajitas:

1 onion, thinly sliced

1 bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 organic zucchini, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

16 ounces organic black beans, drained and thoroughly rinsed

1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

3/4 teaspoons cumin

3/4 teaspoons chili powder

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Fresh Homemade Salsa (recipe below)

1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and sliced

12 organic whole wheat tortillas

Salt

For the Fresh Homemade Salsa:

1 large tomato, diced

1/4 cup green onions (scallions), chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1 lime, freshly squeezed

Salt

Instructions

For the Grilled Vegetable and Black Bean Fajitas:

Prepare the grill for 375 degrees F.

Layer first the onion, then the bell pepper, and finally the zucchini on a grill vegetable basket. Season with salt. Cook for about 8 minutes, or until vegetables are softened. Add the black beans to the basket, season with additional salt, and cook about 2 minutes more, or until beans are heated through.

Meanwhile, as vegetables are cooking, prepare the spice mixture. To a large mixing bowl, add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, and chili powder. Season with a pinch of salt. Slowly whisk in extra virgin olive oil until well combined.

Immediately after removing the basket from the grill, pour the still-hot vegetables and beans into the mixing bowl. Stir and combine until the seasonings have melted into the vegetables and everything is well coated with oil.

Spoon the vegetable-black bean mixture onto whole wheat tortillas. Top with heaping spoonfuls of Fresh Homemade Salsa (recipe below) and slices of avocado. Roll up tortillas, and serve.

For the Fresh Homemade Salsa:

To a mixing bowl, add the tomato, green onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro. Add the lime juice and season with salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Storage: refrigerate salsa in a covered, airtight container.

To assemble the tacos place some of the quinoa in a tortilla or shell. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, avocado, a large dollop the the roasted cranberry salsa, crumbled catija cheese and fresh chopped cilantro. Take in their beauty and then EAT!

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Here are six yummy taco recipes to help you through the day, including Irish Tacos and Easy Jerk Chicken Tacos. Enjoy!

LIME CHICKEN TACOS

This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Tracy Gunter (of Boise, Idaho), "Our fun, simple chicken taco recipe is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad."

Prep: 10 minutes; Cook: 5 1/2 hours; Makes: 6 servings

View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/lime-chicken-tacos/.

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 cup frozen corn, thawed

1 cup chunky salsa

12 fat-free flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed

Optional: Sour cream, pickled onions, shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese

Directions

Place chicken in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Combine lime juice and chili powder; pour over chicken. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 5-6 hours.

Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred meat with 2 forks; return to slow cooker. Stir in corn and salsa. Cook, covered, on low until heated through, about 30 minutes. Place filling on tortillas; if desired, serve with sour cream, pickled onions, lettuce and cheese.

VEGGIE BEAN TACOS

This also comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Tonya Burkhard (Davis, Illinois), "In the summer when fresh corn and just-picked tomatoes are in season, authentic Mexican dishes like this leave you always wanting that next bite. My personal preference is to serve them with a slice of lime to squeeze over the avocado."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Makes: 6 servings

View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/veggie-bean-tacos/.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh corn

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

4 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped

3 small zucchini, chopped

1 large red onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1 teaspoon minced fresh oregano or 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

12 corn tortillas (6 inches), warmed

3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/4 cup salsa verde

1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and thinly sliced

Reduced-fat sour cream, optional

Directions

In a large skillet, saute corn in 1 tablespoon oil until lightly browned. Remove and keep warm. In the same skillet, saute tomatoes, zucchini and onion in remaining oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the beans, oregano, salt, pepper and corn; heat through.

Divide filling among tortillas. Top with cheese, salsa, avocado and, if desired, sour cream.

MEXICAN CHICKEN COBB TACOS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "The classic cobb salad gets a Mexican twist in this easy-to-assemble taco. Taco seasoned shredded rotisserie chicken layered on a bed of chopped romaine lettuce and topped with shredded Mexican style 4 cheese blend, chopped avocado, bacon and tomatoes."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 8 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/mexican-chicken-cobb-tacos.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 1/2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken

1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix

1/4 cup water

2 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (4 oz)

1 package (8 count) Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package

1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped

4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (1/2 cup)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

Lime wedges, if desired

Directions

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken, taco seasoning mix and water; cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is heated through. Remove from heat.

Divide romaine lettuce, chicken mixture and cheese among heated tortilla bowls.

Top each bowl with avocado, bacon and tomatoes. Serve with ranch sauce and lime wedges.

Expert Tips

Ranch dressing can be used instead of Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce.

To dice avocado, cut in half, and remove pit. Using large spoon, scoop flesh from skin. Place one half avocado cut side down on cutting board. Make two horizontal cuts to make three planks, then cut lengthwise into strips. Turn 90 degrees, and cut again. Repeat with other half of avocado.

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 180 (Calories from Fat 50); Total Fat 5g (Saturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 320mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 10%; Calcium 4%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

IRISH TACOS

This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, "You can certainly eat corned beef with boiled cabbage and carrots, but it can be a great deal more exciting to pile the shredded meat — ruddy pink, salty, fatty and meltingly sweet — into warm flour tortillas, then top it with a bright, crunchy, slightly fiery cabbage slaw. The contrast between the soft and the crisp, the salt and the sweet, is fantastic — particularly if you adorn each taco with a few pickled jalapeños and, perhaps, an additional swipe of mayonnaise. It’s not fusion cooking, nor appropriation. It’s just the fact that everything tastes good on a warm tortilla."

Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 30 minutes

This was featured in "What if You Could Make Great Corned Beef?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018643-irish-tacos.

Ingredients

2 to 2 1/2 pounds corned beef (see recipe)

1 small head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced

3 carrots, peeled and sliced into julienne

1 cup mayonnaise

3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

3 tablespoons cider vinegar

Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste

1 1/2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce, or to taste

12 to 16 flour tortillas, warmed

Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños

Preparation

Warm the corned beef in its cooking liquid, or wrap it in foil and set on a sheet pan in a 350-degree oven for 20 minutes or so.

Make the coleslaw: Mix cabbage and carrots together in a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream, cider vinegar, salt, pepper and hot pepper sauce to taste.

Pour half the sauce over the cabbage and carrots and toss to coat thoroughly. Season to taste. Reserve remaining sauce.

When the corned beef is hot, remove from liquid or foil and use two forks to shred it. Serve with the warmed tortillas, sliced jalapeños, the slaw, remaining white sauce and some hot pepper sauce.

HOMEMADE CORNED BEEF

Okay, I know: This isn't a taco recipe. But this is the recipe for the homemade corned beef used in the Irish Tacos.

This also comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, "“The reason to corn your own beef is flavor,” said Michael Ruhlman, a chef and passionate advocate of the process. He wrote about it with Brian Polcyn in their book, “Charcuterie: The Craft of Salting, Smoking and Curing.” “You can achieve tastes that aren’t available in the mass produced versions,” he said. Feel free to experiment with the “pickling spices” called for below — you can customize them, if you like, from a base of coriander seeds, black peppercorns and garlic — but please do not omit the curing salt, which gives the meat immense flavor in addition to a reddish hue. (It’s perfectly safe, Mr. Ruhlman exhorts: “It’s not a chemical additive. Most of the nitrates we eat come in vegetables!”) Finally, if you want a traditional boiled dinner, slide quartered cabbage and some peeled carrots into the braise for the final hour or so of cooking. Or use the meat for Irish tacos."

Yield: 3 to 12 servings; Time: 3 hours, plus 5 days' bring

This was featured in "What if You Could Make Great Corned Beef?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018642-homemade-corned-beef.

Ingredients

2 cups coarse kosher salt

1/2 cup sugar

5 garlic cloves, smashed

5 tablespoons pickling spices

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon pink curing salt (sodium nitrite)

1 4- to 5-pound beef brisket

2 bottles of good beer

2 bottles of good ginger beer

Preparation

Brine the brisket: In a medium pot set over high heat, combine about a gallon of water, the salt, the sugar, the garlic, 3 tablespoons pickling spices and the pink curing salt. Stir mixture as it heats until sugar and salt are dissolved, about 1 minute. Transfer liquid to a container large enough for the brine and the brisket, then refrigerate until liquid is cool.

Place brisket in the cooled liquid and weigh the meat down with a plate so it is submerged. Cover container and place in the refrigerator for 5 days, or up to 7 days, turning every day or so.

To cook brisket, remove it from the brine and rinse under cool water. Place in a pot just large enough to hold it and cover with one of the beers and one of the ginger beers. If you need more liquid to cover the meat, add enough of the other beer, and the other ginger beer, to do so. Add remaining 2 tablespoons pickling spices. Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn heat to low so liquid is barely simmering. Cover and let cook until you can easily insert a fork into the meat, about 3 hours, adding water along the way if needed to cover the brisket.

Keep warm until serving, or let cool in the liquid and reheat when ready to eat, up to three or four days. Slice thinly and serve on sandwiches, in Irish tacos (see recipe) or with carrots and cabbage simmered until tender in the cooking liquid.

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's yummy offerings include Chicken Chili Tacos and Chorizio Pork Tacos with Creamy Slaw. Enjoy!

PULLED CHICKEN TACOS WITH HIDDEN VALLEY® SRIRACHA RANCH® SOUR CREAM

This is from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/pulled-chicken-tacos-with-hidden-valley-sriracha-ranch-sour-cream/

Ingredients

4 large chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)

1 stick (4 ounces) butter

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup Hidden Valley® Sriracha Ranch® Dressing

1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning

warm flour or corn tortillas, for serving

Directions

In a large pot, add chicken, butter, and enough water to just cover the contents. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 20 to 25 minutes.

While the chicken is cooking, combine sour cream and dressing in a small bowl; refrigerate until ready to use.

Remove chicken from pot, reserving 1 1/2 cups of the liquid. Shred chicken and return to pot with reserved liquid; add taco seasoning and bring to a simmer.

Spoon chicken filling into warm tortillas and dollop each with some of the Sriracha Ranch® sour cream. (If desired, feel free top the tacos with more of your favorite garnishes, like sliced avocados, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.

Note: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.

TACO SALAD WITH CUMIN DRESSING

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/taco-salad-with-cumin-dressing.

Ingredients

8 tortillas

1 teaspoon powdered mustard

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

1 teaspoon ground cumin

8 cups romaine lettuce

1/2 cup water

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 tablespoons red wine vinegar

4 cups turkey, chopped and cooked

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped

4 teaspoons lemon juice

2 cups cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

Toast the tortillas on a baking sheet in a 400F oven for about 10 minutes.

While hot, sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese.

Cool and break into bite-size pieces.

Chop the lettuce and arrange it in the bottom of a salad bowl.

Make the cumin dressing by combining the salt, vinegar, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, mustard, cumin, water and oil in a bowl or jar.

Heat the turkey in a skillet with the cumin seeds.

Sprinkle chunks of turkey over the lettuce.

Add the tomato pieces and cheese.

Pour on the cumin dressing and top with tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Fat: 11 g; Protein: 17 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Fat; 1/2 Bread/Starch; 1/2 Vegetable; 2 Lean Meat

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 180 (Calories from Fat 50); Total Fat 5g (Saturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 320mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 10%; Calcium 4%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

CHORIZIO PORK TACOS WITH CREAMY SLAW

This is from Old El Paso, and begin, "Shake up taco night with this easy-to-make taco that delivers big on flavor. Cooked ground pork is seasoned with chorizo taco seasoning mix, and then layered with a quick and easy creamy cabbage slaw, topped with shredded cheese, radishes and green onions."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Makes 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/chorizo-pork-tacos-with-creamy-slaw.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons mayonnaise

2 teaspoons lime juice

1/8 teaspoon salt

2 cups shredded green cabbage

1/4 cup sliced green onions

1 lb ground pork

2/3 cup water

1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chorizo Taco Seasoning Mix

1 1/4 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (5 oz)

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1/4 cup thinly sliced radishes

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges, if desired

Preparation

In medium bowl, stir mayonnaise, lime juice and salt until blended. Add cabbage and 2 tablespoons of the green onions; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until needed.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook pork over medium-high heat 7 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until no longer pink; do not drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide warm pork mixture and cheese among heated taco shells. Top with slaw, radish, remaining 2 tablespoons green onions and the cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

To save time, purchase shredded cabbage.

Try shredded Monterey Jack cheese instead of Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend for a new flavor twist.

CHICKEN CHILI TACOS

This is from the TODAY Show Recipes e-newsletter. Prep Time: 10 minutes; Servings: 4.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 1/2 cups prepared pico de gallo or salsa

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 1 1/2 limes)

2 teaspoons cumin seeds, lightly toasted

2 cloves garlic. minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

12 taco shells (crisp or soft/flour or corn)

Preparation

Place the chicken, pico de gallo or salsa, lime juice, cumin seeds and garlic in a slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. (You can also cook on high for 3 hours.)

Allow to cool a bit. Scoop the chicken out with a big slotted spoon and place it in a large serving bowl. Use two forks to pull the meat apart. The chicken will shred easily. Stir in some cooking juice from the pot and top with the cilantro.

Place the shredded chicken, your taco shells and desired fixings on the table and let everyone put together their perfect taco.

GRILLED PORTABELLA AND POBLANO TACOS

This is from Food.com. Makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Pico de Gallo

2 roma tomatoes, diced

1/2 small red onion, finely diced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 finely minced garlic clove

1 pinch salt

2 teaspoons lime juice

Grilled Portabella Filling

4 medium portabella mushrooms or 1 lb portabella mushroom

1 small red onion, cut into thick slices

1 teaspoon canola oil

salt and pepper

1 whole poblano chile

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon lime juice

1/2 teaspoon dried chipotle powder

Assembly and Toppings

8 small corn tortillas, warmed

guacamole

fresh cilantro stem

lime wedge

monterey jack cheese (Shredded) or cheddar cheese (Shredded)

Directions

Preheat a lightly oiled grill on medium-high heat.

While the grill is heating up, prepare the pico de gallo. In a small mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, cilantro, garlic, salt and lime juice. Set aside.

Next, prepare the grilled portabella filling. Remove the stems from the portabellas, and discard. Using a spoon, scrape out the dark gills from the underside of the mushroom caps.

Lightly brush the portabellas and the onions on both sides with canola oil, and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.

Arrange the mushrooms, onion, and poblano on the hot grill, and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until the mushrooms are softened and the onion is lightly charred. Remove from heat and transfer to a cutting board.

Remove the stem and seeds from the poblano, and discard. Cut the poblano and the portabellas into thin strips, and roughly chop the onion. Transfer to a mixing bowl and toss with lime juice and chipotle powder until well coated.

To assemble, arrange 2 tortillas per plate, and divide the mushroom filling evenly between them. Serve with pico de gallo and bowls of the different toppings so that everyone can garnish their tacos as they please.

Taco Tuesday

While we're getting closer to the end of the year (Christmas is this Friday!), there's still time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's yumminess includes Easy Jerk Chicken Tacos and Grilled Steak Tacos with Corn Salsa. Enjoy!

OUTRAGEOUS RANCH TACOS

This is from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/outrageous-ranch-tacos/.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

1 packet (1.25 ounces) taco seasoning mix

3 cups shredded lettuce

1/2 cup Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® dressing

8 large taco shells, heated

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 medium tomato, seeded and diced

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the ground beef and taco seasoning and cook for about 10 minutes, or until browned; drain.

In a large bowl, toss the lettuce with the dressing until evenly coated.

Fill each taco shell with the beef mixture and top with lettuce, cheese and tomato. Serve immediately.

Notes: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.

For dips, make and enjoy your dip creation. Then, refrigerate within 2 hours or discard.

LIME CHICKEN TACOS

This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Tracy Gunter (of Boise, Idaho), "Our fun, simple chicken taco recipe is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad."

Prep: 10 minutes; Cook: 5 1/2 hours; Makes: 6 servings

View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/lime-chicken-tacos/.

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 cup frozen corn, thawed

1 cup chunky salsa

12 fat-free flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed

Optional: Sour cream, pickled onions, shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese

Directions

Place chicken in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Combine lime juice and chili powder; pour over chicken. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 5-6 hours.

Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred meat with 2 forks; return to slow cooker. Stir in corn and salsa. Cook, covered, on low until heated through, about 30 minutes. Place filling on tortillas; if desired, serve with sour cream, pickled onions, lettuce and cheese.

SPICY BLACK BEAN AND CORN TACOS

This is from Katherine Sacks, associate food editor at Epicurious. Katherine wrote, "Ripe summer corn is so delicious, so fresh, and so full of flavor, you can enjoy it raw. Filled with black beans, avocado, and raw corn marinated in bright lime juice along with jalapeño, cilantro, and toasted nuts and seeds, these hearty tacos make an easy to cook, easy to eat weeknight dinner."

Yield: 4 servings; Active Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes

To view this online, go to https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/spicy-black-bean-and-corn-tacos.

Ingredients

1/4 cup hazelnuts, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds

2 ears of corn, shucked

1 medium jalapeño, seeded, finely chopped

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for serving

5 tablespoons olive oil, divided

5 tablespoons fresh lime juice, divided, plus lime wedges for serving

1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

1 red onion, coarsely chopped

2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed, drained

1 tablespoon ground cumin

12 small corn tortillas

1/2 cup sour cream

1 large avocado, thinly sliced

Directions

Toast hazelnuts and pumpkin seeds in a medium skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally, until golden brown, 8–10 minutes.

Meanwhile, slice corn off cobs into a large bowl (you should have about 2 cups kernels). Add toasted nuts and seeds, jalapeño, red pepper, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup oil, 3 Tbsp. lime juice, and 1/2 tsp. salt; toss to combine.

Heat remaining 1 Tbsp. oil in a medium skillet over medium. Add onion and cook, stirring, until onion starts to release moisture and turns translucent, 4–5 minutes. Add beans, cumin, 1/3 cup water, and remaining 3/4 tsp. salt. Cover and cook until liquid is reduced and beans soften, about 5 minutes. Uncover, add 1/3 cup water, and use the back of a fork to mash up about half of beans.

Working one at a time, warm tortillas with tongs directly over a gas burner over medium heat, turning often, until lightly charred and puffed in spots, about 45 seconds per side. (Alternatively, wrap tortillas in foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave in 20-second bursts until warm.) Transfer to a plate and cover with a kitchen towel to keep warm.

Whisk sour cream and remaining 2 Tbsp. lime juice in a small bowl. Fill tortillas with bean mixture, then top with corn salsa, avocado, and cilantro leaves. Drizzle with sour cream mixture and serve with lime wedges alongside.

Do Ahead

Corn salsa and beans can be made 3 days ahead; store separately, cover, and chill. Bring corn salsa to room temperature. Reheat beans in skillet before serving.

Cooks' Note

When ripe, fresh corn is unavailable, cook ears in boiling salted water until bright yellow and tender, about 6 minutes. Let cool and continue with recipe.

GRILLED STEAK TACOS WITH CORN SALSA

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Upgrade your taco night with ease with these fresh veggie- and cheese-filled grilled steak tacos."

Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/grilled-steak-tacos-with-corn-salsa.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix

1 lb boneless beef sirloin steak, 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick

1/2 cup cooked corn kernels

1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

2 tablespoons diced red onion

3 cups fresh baby spinach

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (4 oz)

1 medium avocado, diced

1/4 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Directions

Heat gas or charcoal grill. In gallon-size resealable food-storage plastic bag, mix oil and taco seasoning mix. Add steak. Seal bag; turn to evenly coat. If not grilling immediately, place in refrigerator to marinate, up to 2 hours.

In medium bowl, mix corn, bell pepper and onion. Cover and refrigerate.

Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Place steak on grill over medium heat (350°F to 400°F). Cover grill; cook 9 to 11 minutes, turning once, for medium-rare doneness (145°F internal temperature) or until desired doneness. Transfer steak to cutting board, and cover loosely with foil; let rest 10 minutes.

Cut steak into thin strips across the grain; then cut strips into bite-size pieces.

Divide spinach among heated taco shells. Top with steak and cheese. Spoon salsa over taco shells; top with avocado and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

Use whatever kind of cooked corn you prefer. Canned, cooked frozen or cooked fresh corn all work well.

Try these additional fresh toppings: sliced radishes, sour cream and sliced jalapeños.

BEEF TACOS WITH MANGO SALSA

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Family taco night gets a summery twist with this easy beef taco topped with Monterey Jack cheese, shredded red cabbage and a fresh mango, red onion salsa."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 10 servings.

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tacos-with-mango-salsa.

Ingredient

1 ripe medium mango, seed removed, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)

2 tablespoons chopped red onion

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon honey

1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)

2/3 cup water

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1 1/4 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (5 oz)

1 1/4 cups shredded red cabbage

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Preparation

In small bowl, mix mango, red onion, lime juice and honey. Set aside.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide warmed beef mixture among heated taco shells. Top with cheese, cabbage, mango salsa and cilantro.

Expert Tips

No red cabbage? Use shredded green cabbage. If shredded cabbage has larger pieces, chop into smaller, more bite-size pieces.

To peel a mango, first stand the fruit on its end, and use a knife to cut straight down on either side, avoiding the large seed in the middle. Slice horizontally and crosswise on the flesh to make diced mango. To save time, purchase already peeled and sliced mango.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 230 (Calories from Fat 110); Total Fat 12g (Saturated Fat 6g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 45mg; Sodium 340mg; Total Carbohydrate 18g (Dietary Fiber 2g, Sugars 6g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 10%; Vitamin C 15%; Calcium 15%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Medium-Fat Meat, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 1

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 180 (Calories from Fat 50); Total Fat 5g (Saturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 320mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 10%; Calcium 4%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's yummy offerings include Easy Jerk Chicken Tacos and Chicken Tacos with Chipotle. Enjoy!

CHILI-LIME MUSHROOM TACOS

This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Greg Fontenot (The Woodlands, Texas), "I used to make this dish with beef, but substituting with portobella mushrooms turned it into my family's vegetarian favorite. It's quick, nutritious, low fat and tasty."

Prep/Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes: 4 servings

View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/chili-lime-mushroom-tacos/.

Ingredients

4 large portobello mushrooms (about 3/4 pound)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium sweet red pepper, cut into strips

1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon grated lime zest

2 tablespoons lime juice

8 corn tortillas (6 inches), warmed

1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Directions

Remove stems from mushrooms; if desired, remove gills using a spoon. Cut mushrooms into 1/2-in. slices.

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; saute mushrooms, red pepper and onion until mushrooms are tender, 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic, seasonings, lime zest and juice; cook and stir 1 minute. Serve in tortillas; top with cheese.

Health Tip: Making these tacos with lean ground beef adds almost 4 grams of saturated fat per serving. That’s a good reason for a meatless taco Tuesday!

SOUTHWEST TURKEY TACOS

This yummy taco recipe is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Lean ground turkey, veggies and savory salsa meld in the slow cooker to make this deliciously easy taco filling."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/southwest-turkey-tacos.

Ingredient

1 package (20 oz) extra-lean ground turkey

1/2 cup chopped onion (1 medium)

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 cups Old El Paso™ Thick ‘n Chunky salsa

1 can (15 oz) Progresso™ black beans, drained

1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, drained, rinsed

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 boxes (4.6 oz each) Old El Paso™ taco shells (24 shells total)

3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro

3 cups chopped lettuce

3 medium tomatoes, chopped (1 1/2 cups)

Preparation

In 12-inch skillet, place turkey and onion; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until turkey is no longer pink.

Spray 3- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In cooker, mix turkey mixture, salsa, beans, corn and chili powder.

Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 to 7 hours.

To serve, heat taco shells in oven as directed on boxes. Stir cilantro into turkey mixture. Spoon about 1/4 cup mixture into each warm taco shell; top with lettuce and tomatoes.

Expert Tips

This taco mixture is also delicious served over rice and topped with chopped fresh cilantro.

Top with fat-free sour cream, if desired.

TACO SALAD WITH CUMIN DRESSING

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/taco-salad-with-cumin-dressing.

Ingredients

8 tortillas

1 teaspoon powdered mustard

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

1 teaspoon ground cumin

8 cups romaine lettuce

1/2 cup water

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 tablespoons red wine vinegar

4 cups turkey, chopped and cooked

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped

4 teaspoons lemon juice

2 cups cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

Toast the tortillas on a baking sheet in a 400F oven for about 10 minutes.

While hot, sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese.

Cool and break into bite-size pieces.

Chop the lettuce and arrange it in the bottom of a salad bowl.

Make the cumin dressing by combining the salt, vinegar, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, mustard, cumin, water and oil in a bowl or jar.

Heat the turkey in a skillet with the cumin seeds.

Sprinkle chunks of turkey over the lettuce.

Add the tomato pieces and cheese.

Pour on the cumin dressing and top with tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Fat: 11 g; Protein: 17 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Fat; 1/2 Bread/Starch; 1/2 Vegetable; 2 Lean Meat

MEXICAN CHICKEN COBB TACOS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "The classic cobb salad gets a Mexican twist in this easy-to-assemble taco. Taco seasoned shredded rotisserie chicken layered on a bed of chopped romaine lettuce and topped with shredded Mexican style 4 cheese blend, chopped avocado, bacon and tomatoes."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 8 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/mexican-chicken-cobb-tacos.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 1/2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken

1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix

1/4 cup water

2 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (4 oz)

1 package (8 count) Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package

1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped

4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (1/2 cup)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

Lime wedges, if desired

Directions

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken, taco seasoning mix and water; cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is heated through. Remove from heat.

Divide romaine lettuce, chicken mixture and cheese among heated tortilla bowls.

Top each bowl with avocado, bacon and tomatoes. Serve with ranch sauce and lime wedges.

Expert Tips

Ranch dressing can be used instead of Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce.

To dice avocado, cut in half, and remove pit. Using large spoon, scoop flesh from skin. Place one half avocado cut side down on cutting board. Make two horizontal cuts to make three planks, then cut lengthwise into strips. Turn 90 degrees, and cut again. Repeat with other half of avocado.

EASY JERK CHICKEN TACOS

This yumminess comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Want the fresh flavors of island fare but can’t take a trip to the Caribbean? Try these easy Jerk chicken tacos, loaded with fruit, veggies and warm Jamaican spices."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-jerk-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

1/3 cup water

1 package Old El Paso™ Caribbean Inspired Jerk World Taco Kit

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup peeled, diced mango

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center.

Stir in water and seasoning mix (from taco kit); heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

While chicken is cooking, heat tortillas (from taco kit) as directed on package. Divide chicken among tortillas, and drizzle with sauce (from taco kit). Top with cabbage, bell pepper, mango, onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to hot skillet.

No fresh mango? Diced pineapple makes a nice substitute.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 180 (Calories from Fat 50); Total Fat 5g (Saturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 320mg; Total Carbohydrate 20g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g); Protein 12g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 10%; Calcium 4%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 1

CHICKEN TACOS WITH CHIPOTLE

This comes from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, “For good tacos, you need fresh, hot tortillas and a zesty filling. Canned chipotle chiles will do the trick with their smoky heat; it's an easy way to get flavor fast. Look for small cans with “chipotle chiles in adobo” on the label. And Mexican groceries generally have better-quality tortillas than the ones you find in supermarkets; it's worth seeking those out and heating them gently over steam, or by toasting them in a dry cast-iron pan. You can also use this recipe with precooked chicken, which makes this already quite simple recipe as easy as falling out of bed.”

Yield: 4 servings; Time: 1 hour.

This was featured in “Chichen Tacos Let You Think Fast” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

For the Tacos:

4 large bone-in chicken thighs, about 1 1/2 pounds

3 scallions, left whole

1 bay leaf

1 thyme branch

3 black peppercorns

1 allspice berry

2 cloves

Kosher salt

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

2 or 3 chipotle chiles in adobo, chopped

3 tablespoons adobo sauce, from the can

1/2 cup broth (use broth from simmered chicken)

8 fresh corn tortillas

For Garnish:

1 small white onion, finely chopped, soaked in ice water for 10 minutes and drained

Thinly sliced serrano chile

Thinly sliced radishes

Sliced avocado

Crumbled queso fresco or mild feta cheese

Crème fraîche or Mexican crema

Cilantro sprigs

Dried oregano

Lime wedges

Preparation

Put chicken thighs in a saucepan and cover with 3 cups water. Add scallions, bay leaf, thyme, peppercorns, allspice, cloves and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Simmer for 30 minutes, then remove chicken and cool. Shred chicken with your fingers, discarding chicken skin and bone. Strain broth and reserve. You should have about 2 cups shredded chicken.

Put olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion, season with salt and cook until softened and a bit browned, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cumin and cook for 1 minute more. Add chopped chipotle chile and adobo sauce and stir to combine. Add shredded chicken, salt lightly and stir to coat. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 or 3 minutes, until sauce has thickened somewhat. Keep warm.

Heat the tortillas over steam or by your favorite method, keeping them soft and pliable.

Build the tacos quickly: Put a spoonful of the saucy chicken in the center of each tortilla. Top with a teaspoon of chopped white onion, a few slivers of serrano chile, some radish and avocado slices, a teaspoon of queso fresco and a teaspoon of crème fraîche. Add a few cilantro springs and a small pinch of oregano. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.