Description
This Taco Salad features seasoned ground beef or turkey, fresh vegetables, beans, and cheese, all topped with crunchy tortilla chips and salsa. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion, combining a variety of textures and tastes in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a medium flame over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks.
- Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and no longer pink. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the taco seasoning and 1 cup of water to the beef. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
- While the beef simmers, wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water.
- Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water, cut each in half, and add to the bowl.
- Rinse and drain the black beans, then add them to the salad bowl.
- If using frozen corn, ensure it is thawed. If using canned corn, drain it. Add the corn to the bowl.
- Once the beef mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the salad bowl.
- Gently add the diced avocado to the salad.
- Spoon the beef mixture over the salad.
- Drizzle salsa over the top, adjusting the amount to your taste.
- Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the salad for added crunch.
- Toss the salad gently to combine or leave it layered for a visually appealing presentation.
- Add dollops of sour cream on top of each serving if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and crunch.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms or use lentils.
- For extra spice, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Customize with additional toppings like olives, diced red onion, or sliced radishes.
- For meal prep, store salad ingredients and beef mixture separately in airtight containers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes