Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these mind-blowing Vegan Lentil Nachos that will make even die-hard cheese lovers forget about dairy! Imagine crispy tortilla chips loaded with protein-packed lentils, smothered in a creamy, dreamy cashew cheese sauce that's so delicious, you won't believe it's completely plant-based. This Mexican-inspired recipe is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that proves vegan cuisine can be indulgent, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 cup cashews, soaked
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Soak cashews in hot water for 30 minutes to soften, ensuring a creamy cheese sauce texture.
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly under cold water.
- In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding small amounts of water if needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If lentils are not pre-cooked, simmer them in vegetable broth for 15-20 minutes until tender and fully cooked.
- Spread tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet, creating a single layer for even heating.
- Distribute cooked lentils uniformly over the tortilla chips.
- Drizzle the prepared cashew cheese sauce generously over the chips and lentils.
- Sprinkle diced tomatoes and sliced jalapeños across the nachos.
- Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until chips are crispy and cheese sauce is slightly bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your vegan lentil nachos!
Tips
- Soak your cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes to ensure a super smooth and creamy cheese sauce.
- Use a high-speed blender for the best sauce texture—the smoother, the better!
- Don't overcrowd your baking sheet; spread chips in a single layer for maximum crispiness.
- For extra heat, adjust jalapeño quantity to your spice preference.
- Prep ingredients in advance to make assembly quick and easy.
- Serve immediately after baking to keep chips crisp and cheese sauce warm.
- For added nutrition, consider topping with fresh cilantro or avocado slices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
