1. Prepare the Vegetables

Start by chopping your vegetables. Dice the red onion and bell pepper, and chop the zucchini into small cubes. If you’re using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob, or simply measure out the frozen or canned corn. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, add the zucchini and corn, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be tender but still retain some crunch.

3. Season the Vegetables

Once the vegetables are cooked, sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to combine, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the vegetables with flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

4. Add the Beans

Add the black beans to the pan with the vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through. The beans provide a hearty protein base for the tacos and contribute to the overall flavor of the filling.

5. Warm the Tortillas

While the vegetable and bean mixture is cooking, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20-30 seconds on each side, or wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds until soft and warm.

6. Assemble the Tacos

Once the filling is ready and the tortillas are warmed, it’s time to assemble the tacos. Place 2 tablespoons of the vegetable and bean mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with diced avocado, a spoonful of salsa or pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Squeeze a lime wedge over the top for an added burst of flavor.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tacos immediately while they’re warm and fresh. Provide extra lime wedges and hot sauce on the side for those who like a little extra zing. Enjoy your homemade vegetarian tacos with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad!