Southwest Salad - Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Get ready to add some bold flavors to your mealtime with this vibrant Southwest Salad! Perfectly balanced with a mix of crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and hearty black beans, this salad is bursting with color and taste. A zesty lime-cilantro dressing ties everything together, giving you a refreshing yet satisfying dish. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a meal-prep option that keeps well, this Southwest Salad has got you covered. It's quick, easy, and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or cotija cheese
- 1/2 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (optional)
-
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prep the Veggies. Start by washing and chopping the Romaine lettuce, halving the cherry tomatoes, and dicing the avocado. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the fresh cilantro.
Cook the Corn (Optional). If using fresh or frozen corn, cook the kernels in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until slightly charred. Let it cool before adding to the salad.
Mix the Dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to mix.
Add Cheese and Tortilla Strips. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and tortilla strips (or crushed tortilla chips) over the top of the salad.
Add Protein (Optional). If you're adding chicken, dice the cooked chicken breast and scatter it over the salad.
Dress the Salad. Drizzle the lime-cilantro dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss everything together to coat the ingredients with the dressing.
Serve. Divide the salad into bowls or plates and enjoy!
Recipe tips
For an extra layer of flavor, grill the corn on the cob before slicing off the kernels. This will add a smoky, charred taste to your salad. Add some heat with a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but wait to add the avocado and dressing until just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu to keep things interesting.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
A Chef Salad is a classic, refreshing dish that brings together crisp greens, savory meats, cheeses, and a variety of vegetables. This hearty salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It’s versatile, customizable, and packed with flavor. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a favorite for those who want a delicious, nutritious meal in a short amount of time.
This refreshing Turkey Salad is the perfect way to enjoy leftover turkey, combining lean, flavorful turkey meat with crunchy vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s incredibly versatile, suitable for sandwiches, wraps, or served over fresh greens. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, packed with protein and low in carbs.
This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing. It’s perfect for those warm days when you want something light but satisfying. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite refreshing and comforting. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick meal, this pasta salad will surely impress.
A fresh, vibrant Garden Salad is a perfect addition to any meal, or a light, satisfying dish on its own. Crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers come together in this easy-to-make salad, finished with a simple homemade vinaigrette. This healthy, versatile dish brings the flavors of a summer garden to your table, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch. Customize with your favorite vegetables or add-ons like cheese or croutons for extra flavor.
If you're looking for a light yet satisfying meal that's packed with fresh flavors and textures, this Chopped Salad is the perfect choice. It's a combination of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, savory cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing that brings everything together. Whether you're enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is versatile, nutritious, and ideal for anyone who wants to eat healthy without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences, so feel free to get creative!
This Mixed Greens Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side. Packed with leafy greens, crunchy vegetables, and a simple vinaigrette, it’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings like nuts, seeds, or cheese. Whether you need a quick lunch or a side for dinner, this salad will add a healthy and delicious touch to your meal.
Caesar Salad is a classic dish known for its fresh and crisp flavors. This recipe combines the crunch of romaine lettuce with the savory taste of Parmesan cheese, the creaminess of Caesar dressing, and the satisfying crunch of croutons. It's perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course with added protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. This salad is easy to make yet packed with flavor, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire.
This fresh and crunchy Radish Salad is perfect when you’re looking for a light, refreshing dish. With its peppery flavor and crisp texture, radishes combine beautifully with a tangy dressing to make a simple yet flavorful salad. This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for a busy day or when you want a healthy side dish to accompany your meal.
This fresh Avocado and Tomato Salad is a vibrant, quick-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. With ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a splash of lemon for zest, this salad is both satisfying and incredibly healthy. The colors and flavors are sure to brighten up your table, making it ideal for a light lunch, snack, or a refreshing side at dinner.
This classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect side dish for summer picnics, barbecues, or any family gathering. With its creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and tender pasta, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. It's easy to prepare, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients like boiled eggs, pickles, or even a hint of mustard. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe delivers a delicious result every time.
This Farro Salad is the perfect blend of chewy, nutty grains and fresh, colorful veggies. It’s satisfying and wholesome, making it an excellent dish for lunch or a light dinner. The farro provides a hearty base, while the crunchy veggies and zesty lemon dressing add layers of flavor. It’s easy to prepare and stores well, so you can make it ahead for meal prep or picnics.
This Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines sweet, juicy watermelon with savory feta cheese, fresh mint, and a hint of tang from lime juice. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, making it an excellent side dish or light meal during hot summer days. With its colorful presentation and easy preparation, this salad is a hit at barbecues, picnics, or even as a quick snack. Ready in just minutes, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a fresh, healthy dish.
This homemade beef gravy is rich, savory, and perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or any meat dish. It’s made from simple ingredients, yet delivers a depth of flavor that elevates any meal. By using the pan drippings from your roast, you can create a hearty, flavorful sauce that brings comfort to the table. Whether you're serving a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, this beef gravy is a must-have!
Steak Frites is a classic French dish that pairs perfectly seared steak with crispy, golden fries. It's a simple yet elegant meal, often found in French bistros. The tender, juicy steak contrasts beautifully with the crunchy fries, all brought together by a side of béarnaise or garlic butter. This recipe will guide you through preparing this beloved dish at home, giving you a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
The Cosmopolitan is a stylish and refreshing cocktail that's both tangy and sweet. Made famous by pop culture, this vibrant drink is a go-to for cocktail enthusiasts. With a balanced mix of vodka, cranberry juice, lime, and triple sec, it’s a perfect sip for any occasion. The bright pink color and smooth taste make it a fun, elegant drink for entertaining or relaxing at home.
Delightfully flaky, buttery, and with a rich cream cheese filling, these Cream Cheese Pastry Squares are a perfect treat. This easy-to-make dessert combines the simplicity of puff pastry with the creamy sweetness of a cheesecake-like center, all topped with a hint of cinnamon sugar for added flavor. Perfect for brunch, snack time, or dessert, these pastries will disappear in no time.
This Salmon with Lemon Butter recipe is the perfect combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors. The salmon is pan-seared to crispy perfection, while a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce elevates the dish with brightness. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You’ll love how the zesty lemon enhances the tender, flaky salmon, creating a meal that's light yet satisfying.
These Coffee Cake Muffins are the perfect blend of a moist, tender cake and a sweet, crumbly topping. They're ideal for a quick breakfast treat, snack, or even a dessert with a cup of coffee or tea. The brown sugar and cinnamon streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, making these muffins a comforting and flavorful indulgence.
Imagine the comforting warmth of a bowl of hearty split pea soup. This classic soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for a cozy meal. Made with split peas, ham, and a blend of aromatic vegetables, it's a dish that will satisfy both your taste buds and your hunger. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly day or seeking a nourishing meal, this split pea soup is an excellent choice. It's easy to prepare and makes a generous batch, ideal for sharing or saving leftovers.
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian-inspired dish, known for its tender marinated chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. The balance of warm spices and the smoothness of the cream makes this dish a perfect option for a flavorful, hearty meal. It’s a great recipe for dinner, served with rice or naan to soak up all that delicious sauce!
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup to comfort your soul. With a smooth texture and the rich flavor of roasted pumpkin, this soup is perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings at home. The combination of spices like nutmeg and ginger adds warmth, while coconut milk gives it a velvety finish. It's simple to make, nutritious, and great for meal prep. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a family dinner, this pumpkin soup will surely become a go-to recipe.
This light and airy Angel Food Cake is a perfect dessert for those who crave a soft, fluffy, and sweet treat. Made primarily from whipped egg whites, this cake has a cloud-like texture and a deliciously subtle sweetness that pairs well with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate. It's a classic recipe that's simple to make, low in fat, and satisfying as a guilt-free treat!
This creamy and flavorful Bean Dip is the perfect party appetizer or snack. Made with hearty beans, zesty spices, and smooth cream cheese, it’s a delicious dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. Quick to prepare and loaded with flavor, it’s an ideal option for entertaining or satisfying a midday craving.
Biscuits and Gravy is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. This Southern staple combines fluffy, golden biscuits with a rich and savory sausage gravy, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home. The buttery biscuits are soft and tender, while the creamy gravy, packed with flavorful sausage and spices, makes this dish irresistible. If you're looking for a hearty, homemade breakfast, this recipe is just what you need.
Guacamole is a classic Mexican dip made from avocados, known for its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. This simple yet delicious recipe will have you enjoying fresh, homemade guacamole in no time. Perfect for dipping tortilla chips, spreading on toast, or adding to your favorite tacos and burritos, this guacamole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese comfort food, known for its simple ingredients and light, yet nourishing broth. This savory soup features delicate ribbons of eggs floating in a flavorful chicken broth, with just the right touch of seasoning. It's quick to prepare, perfect for when you're craving a warm, soothing dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you're craving a quick, bold snack with a kick, these spicy peanuts are perfect for you! Coated with a blend of spices and lightly roasted, they deliver just the right amount of heat and crunch. This recipe is simple to prepare, ideal for parties, movie nights, or as a flavorful snack throughout the day. You can adjust the spice level to your taste and experiment with different seasoning combinations. Get ready for a snack that's both delicious and addictive!
A refreshing Mojito is the perfect drink to cool you down on a hot day. With its crisp combination of fresh mint, tangy lime, and a touch of sweetness, this classic Cuban cocktail will transport you straight to a tropical paradise. Whether you're hosting a summer party or simply enjoying a relaxing evening, a homemade Mojito is always a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s simple to make and requires only a handful of ingredients!
Jalapeño poppers are a classic snack with a delightful combination of spicy, creamy, and crispy textures. These bite-sized treats are made by stuffing fresh jalapeños with a rich mixture of cream cheese and cheddar, then wrapping them in smoky bacon. The jalapeños are baked until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is melted to perfection. This recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun appetizer at home.
Juicy and flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are perfect for grilling, baking, or even pan-frying. Marinated in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, these skewers bring together a balance of savory and sweet flavors that make a perfect meal or appetizer. Enjoy them on a warm summer evening or any time you crave a taste of Japan-inspired flavors. Serve over rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete dish!
Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew known for its deep, comforting flavors. This dish combines hominy, tender pork, and aromatic seasonings simmered to perfection, then topped with fresh garnishes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you're celebrating with family or enjoying a cozy meal on a cold evening, pozole is a delightful way to bring warmth and flavor to your table.
If you love chicken wings, this recipe is for you! These crispy baked chicken wings are flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a game-day snack or a casual dinner, these wings are sure to be a hit. By baking instead of frying, you get that crispy texture without the extra oil, making them a healthier option. Plus, with a mix of simple spices, you’ll achieve a delicious, savory taste that everyone will love.