Taco Salad

Preparation Time: 15 mins. |

Cooking Time: 20 mins. |

Serving: 4 Persons |

Category: Salad

taco salad

Taco Salad is a vibrant and flavorful Mexican dish that combines the best elements of a taco in a fresh, salad form. This dish features a base of crisp lettuce topped with seasoned ground beef or chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips. It’s finished with a zesty dressing, often made with lime, cilantro, and a touch of spice. Taco Salad is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party dish. It’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • Ground Beef or Chicken: 500g (approx. 1 lb)
  • Taco Seasoning: 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
  • Romaine Lettuce (chopped): 1 large head
  • Black Beans (canned, drained and rinsed): 1 cup
  • Corn Kernels (canned or fresh): 1 cup
  • Cherry Tomatoes (halved): 1 cup
  • Red Onion (finely chopped): 1/2 cup
  • Cheddar Cheese (shredded): 1 cup
  • Tortilla Chips (crushed): 1 cup
  • Avocado (sliced): 1 large
  • Fresh Cilantro (chopped): 1/4 cup

For the Dressing:

  • Sour Cream: 1/2 cup
  • Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic Clove (minced): 1 clove
  • Ground Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Hot Sauce (optional): 1 teaspoon

Instructions

Prepare the Meat:

  1. Cook the Meat:
    In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or chicken over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add Taco Seasoning:
    Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
  1. Prepare the Salad:
  1. Assemble the Base:
    In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce as the base.
  2. Add Toppings:
    Layer the cooked meat, black beans, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and sliced avocado on top of the lettuce.
  3. Garnish:
    Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.
  1. Prepare the Dressing:
  1. Mix the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce (if using) until smooth.
  1. Serve:
  1. Dress the Salad:
    Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side.
  2. Toss and Enjoy:
    Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients, or let everyone serve themselves. Enjoy this fresh and flavorful Taco Salad!

Nutrition Informaton

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 25g
    • Saturated Fat: 8g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
    • Dietary Fiber: 8g
    • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Vitamin A: 120% of DV
  • Vitamin C: 40% of DV
  • Calcium: 20% of DV
  • Iron: 15% of DV
  • Magnesium: 10% of DV
  • Potassium: 700mg (20% of DV)
  • Folate: 15% of DV