This easy and delicious Plant-Based Taco Salad is stacked with flavor and wholesome ingredients. I love using cabbage as the base for an extra boost of crunch and nutrients—plus it’s a tasty way to get in those cruciferous veggies. This salad is simple, fully customizable, and packed with plant-based protein, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day. Best of all, this Plant-Based Taco Salad supports your health and the planet, making every bite a win-win.
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Ingredients
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Salad
- Tri-color cabbage, 1 handful pre-shredded
- Spinach leaves, 1 handful chopped
- Avocado, ¼ to ½ avocado diced
- Olives, halved
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Bell peppers, chopped (optional)
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Plant-Based Protein
- Beyond Meat, 1 package
- Sautéed mushrooms (Shiitake or any kind)
- Black beans (optional instead of Beyond Meat)
- Taco seasoning, 1 packet
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Toppings
- Plant-based cheese (I love Miyoko’s Plant Milk Cheese Shreds—Pepper Jack or Cheddar)
- Cilantro, chopped
- Salsa (to taste)
- Unsweetened plant-based yogurt (to taste)
- Organic whole grain tortilla chips (optional)
- Nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté mushrooms and Beyond Meat with taco seasoning (follow packet directions) until mushrooms are tender and Beyond Meat is browned.
- Layer shredded cabbage, spinach, sautéed mushrooms and Beyond Meat, veggies, and olives.
- Drizzle salsa and a dollop of unsweetened plant-based yogurt on top. Sprinkle with cilantro and any other toppings of your choice.
- Dive into your protein-packed, plant-powered taco salad. Enjoy!
What's in this meal?
Beans • Leafy Greens • Cruciferous Veggies • Other Veggies • Spices
Fiber: 4-8g
|Protein: 12-20g
|Plant variety: 7-10
Nutrition info is approximate and based on common whole food ingredients. It depends on your ingredient choices and add-ins, so use it as a general guide—not a strict count. Focus on variety, fiber, and flavor, not perfection.
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Why This Recipe Works
- Quick & Customizable: Toss in whatever toppings or veggies you have on hand.
- Nutrient-Dense: Cabbage and spinach bring vitamins, minerals, fiber, and cruciferous benefits (cabbage is rich in glucosinolates, which support detoxification and may help reduce cancer risk).
- Protein-Rich: Beyond Meat adds satisfying protein and flavor, perfect for a convenient plant-based meal.
- Convenient: Pre-shredded cabbage saves prep time and adds crunch.
Swap It + Smart Tips
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Prefer it handheld? Scoop the salad into a whole-grain tortilla for a satisfying, portable meal.
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Customize your toppings: Mix and match cherry tomatoes, olives, avocado, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips.
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Whole Food Option: Sub black beans or lentils (cooked with taco seasoning) for a nutrient-dense alternative.
Pro Tip:
Dr. Michael Greger’s research on Food Synergy shows that combining diverse plant foods can amplify their protective benefits—this taco salad was made for that!
Plus, cooking a full package of Beyond Meat at once saves time during the week—just refrigerate the extra and toss it into salads, bowls, or wraps for quick, plant-powered meals on the go.
While Beyond Meat is a processed option, it’s still a helpful swap to reduce your environmental impact and reliance on animal products—and it’s a healthier choice than traditional meat, with lower saturated fat and no cholesterol. For more on choosing plant-based meats, check out our blog post, Are Plant-Based Meats Healthy?
Why It Matters
For You:
Packed with protein, fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats that support heart health, digestion, and overall wellness.
For the Planet:
Choosing plant-based ingredients like cabbage and Beyond Meat reduces water use, carbon emissions, and deforestation. Every small step counts toward a healthier planet.
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