Zesty Tacos are a delicious and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, featuring a combination of seasoned ground beef, black-eyed peas, fresh vegetables, shredded cheese, and a tangy zesty Italian dressing. This recipe brings together the vibrant and bold flavors that make tacos a beloved and versatile dish enjoyed by many. With its zesty and satisfying components, Zesty Tacos are sure to spice up your mealtime.

The history of tacos can be traced back to ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where the concept of filling tortillas with various ingredients dates back thousands of years. The modern iteration of tacos, as we know them today, emerged in Mexico and quickly gained popularity around the world.

Zesty Tacos take the traditional taco concept and infuse it with a zesty twist. The addition of black-eyed peas, along with the seasoned ground beef, creates a unique and flavorful combination. Black-eyed peas have a long history in Southern cuisine and add a delightful texture and taste to these tacos.

The use of zesty Italian salad dressing as a drizzle adds a tangy and vibrant element, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the tacos. This unexpected twist complements the traditional taco components such as tomatoes, lettuce, and shredded cheese, adding an exciting and refreshing element to the dish.

Zesty Tacos represent the creative and ever-evolving nature of tacos, where flavors and ingredients can be adapted to suit personal preferences and culinary experimentation. This recipe is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of tacos, offering a delightful departure from the ordinary while still delivering the familiar and satisfying taco experience.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 MIN.

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup water
• 1 envelope taco seasoning
• 8 taco shells
• 1 can (15½ ounces) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup zesty Italian salad dressing

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the water and taco seasoning, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 4-5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the taco shells according to the package directions to ensure they are crisp and ready for filling.
3. Stir the black-eyed peas into the skillet with the beef mixture, heating it through.
4. Spoon approximately ¼ cup of the beef mixture into each taco shell.
5. Top the tacos with chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Drizzle the zesty Italian salad dressing over the assembled tacos, adding a tangy and flavorful element.
7. Serve the Zesty Tacos immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures.
8. These Zesty Tacos can be customized with additional toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, or sliced jalapenos, depending on personal preferences. They are a fantastic option for a quick and delicious meal that adds a zesty twist to traditional taco flavors.