Save Tangy cranberry&jalapeño dip meets savory tacos in this inventive fusion dish, combining sweet heat with creamy, cheesy flavors for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main.
I first made these cranberry jalapeño dip tacos for a holiday gathering, and everyone was surprised by how well the flavors paired together. It's fun to watch guests discover this unexpected combination!
Ingredients
- Cranberry Jalapeño Dip: 1 cup fresh cranberries (or thawed frozen), 2 medium jalapeños (seeded and finely diced), 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 2 green onions (finely sliced), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup sour cream, juice of 1 lime
- Tacos: 8 small flour or corn tortillas, 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Jalapeño Dip:
- In a food processor, pulse cranberries, jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, sugar, salt, and lime juice until finely chopped but not pureed. In a bowl, mix cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Fold in the cranberry mixture until fully combined. Chill for at least 15 minutes.
- Warm Tortillas:
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Spread a generous spoonful of cranberry jalapeño dip onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, optionally with extra lime wedges.
Save These tacos quickly became a family favorite, especially during festive occasions. Even picky eaters love the burst of flavor and colorful presentation!
Required Tools
Food processor, mixing bowls, skillet, knife, cutting board
Notes
For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in. Add grilled chicken or turkey for a non-vegetarian variation, or swap flour tortillas for corn for a gluten-free option. The dip is delicious with crackers or as a sandwich spread.
Nutritional Information
Per taco (using flour tortillas and cheese): Calories 220, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 27 g, Protein 6 g
Save This festive fusion taco is easy enough for busy nights and memorable enough for family gatherings.
Common Questions
- → Can I use frozen cranberries for the dip?
Yes, thawed frozen cranberries work well and retain the vibrant flavor for the dip mixture.
- → How spicy are these tacos?
They have a mild heat from seeded jalapeños. For extra spice, leave some seeds in during preparation.
- → Are these tacos gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What cheeses work best in this dish?
Monterey Jack and mozzarella melt well and complement the tangy dip flavors in each taco.
- → Can I add extra protein?
Grilled chicken or turkey can be added for a non-vegetarian variation, enhancing the dish's heartiness.
- → What tools are necessary for assembly?
A food processor, mixing bowls, skillet, and basic cutting tools are needed to prepare and assemble tacos.