Taco Salad. Quick and Healthy Mexican Dish

Updated on August 20, 2024
Taco Salad. Quick and Healthy Mexican Dish

Taco Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a healthier format. This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of tacos but want a lighter meal. With crisp lettuce, seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. It's easy to prepare and customizable, making it ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.

Servings
4
Prep Time
15m
Cook Time
10m
Total Time
25m

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Tortilla chips, crumbled (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1

Cook the Ground Beef. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2

Season the Beef. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and a little water (as directed on the seasoning packet). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully coated and the seasoning is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3

Prepare the Salad Base. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, and black olives.

Step 4

Assemble the Salad. Add the seasoned beef to the salad base. Top with diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled tortilla chips if using.

Step 5

Add the Dressing. Mix the salsa and sour cream in a small bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.

Step 6

Serve the taco salad immediately, garnished with additional toppings like extra cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips if desired.

Recipe tips

For a healthier version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Add more veggies like bell peppers, cucumber, or radishes for extra crunch and nutrition. If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef. Make the salad more filling by serving it with a side of rice or quinoa.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories
450
Fats
28g
Carbohydrates
24g
Proteins
26g