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Taco Salad

Taco Salad

Lora Lopez
This Taco Salad is a vibrant, customizable dish that combines the bold flavors of traditional tacos with the freshness of a salad.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Stovetop
Cuisine Stovetop
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend: 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp salt
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or roasted
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
  • Tortilla chips for crunch, optional

For the Cilantro-Lime Dressing:

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 tsp honey or agave
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Protein:

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or alternative) until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Add the taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Dressing:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Salad:

  • In a large bowl, layer the chopped romaine lettuce, cooked ground beef, cherry tomatoes, avocado, black beans, corn, red onion, and shredded cheese.
  • Drizzle the cilantro-lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Optional Serving Ideas:

  • Tortilla Bowl: Place the salad in a crispy tortilla bowl for a fun presentation.
  • Parfait Jars: Layer the salad ingredients in clear jars for a portable and visually appealing option.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the dressing and cook the protein in advance. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
  • Customization: Add jalapeños, olives, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Keyword Stovetop