Walnut Meat Nachos

Description

Serve up a plant-forward appetizer in no time with these walnut meat nachos. The spicy walnut meat is full of tantalizing flavors that complement the chips and fresh toppings.

Ingredients

Spicy Walnut Meat

• 1 1/2 cups California Walnuts
• 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 to 2 tablespoons water

Other Nacho Ingredients

• 6 servings tortilla chips (about 8 cups)
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons refried beans
• 1 1/2 cups traditional or vegan cheese (Mexican blend, Cheddar, Jack or pepper-Jack)
• Diced tomato, diced avocado, fresh cilantro leaves, jalapeño slices, pickled onion, sour cream, hot sauce or salsa and lime wedges (optional garnishes)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place all Spicy Walnut Meat ingredients in a food processor and pulse until well-mixed and crumb like. The mixture should look and smell like taco meat and will hold its shape when gently pinched between your fingers.
3. Place half the chips on prepared baking sheet and top with half the beans, cheese and taco meat. Repeat layers.
4. Bake for 12 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and chips are lightly browned. Serve with any desired garnishes.