These ultimate vegetarian nachos take the classic dish to a new level with a variety of toppings, fresh ingredients, and a zesty kick. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or any casual gathering, this version incorporates a homemade cheese sauce and vibrant toppings that will impress your guests. Here’s how to make your own ultimate vegetarian nachos!

Ingredients

For the Nachos:

• 10 oz sturdy tortilla chips
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 avocado, diced or sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 2 hours)
• ½ cup nutritional yeast
• ½ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream or vegan sour cream
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. In a blender, combine the cashews, nutritional yeast, water, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the water for your desired consistency—add more for a thinner sauce or less for a thicker one. Set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 3: Assemble the Nachos

1. On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer.
2. Evenly distribute the black beans and corn over the chips.
3. Add the diced red and green bell peppers and red onion.

Step 4: Bake the Nachos

• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the chips are warm and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Add Cheese Sauce

1. Remove the nachos from the oven and drizzle the cheese sauce generously over them.
2. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 6: Top and Serve

1. Once baked, remove from the oven and add fresh toppings such as diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, jalapeños (if using), and fresh cilantro.
2. Serve with optional toppings like sour cream or vegan sour cream, salsa or pico de gallo, and lime wedges on the side.

Tips for Ultimate Vegetarian Nachos

• Make Ahead: Prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your nachos.
• Spice It Up: For extra heat, consider adding diced green chiles or using spicy salsa.
• Add Protein: For a heartier option, include cooked quinoa or lentils mixed into your toppings.

These ultimate vegetarian nachos are a delicious twist on a classic favorite! With creamy cheese sauce and an array of fresh toppings, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures in every bite!