Description
Easy Taco Salad is a bright, fresh, and quick meal bursting with vibrant vegetables, seasoned protein, and crunchy, zesty toppings. Ready in under 20 minutes, it combines all the best taco flavors into a healthy and satisfying salad perfect for lunch or dinner, with plenty of options for customization and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- taco seasoning (to taste)
- water (a splash, for simmering)
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed or whole
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer until fully cooked and flavors meld. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, finely dice the red onion, and slice the avocado just before assembling to keep it fresh and creamy.
- Mix the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and red onion. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly, creating a colorful, textured salad base.
- Add Protein and Toppings: Add the cooked, seasoned meat on top of the salad. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the warm meat so it softens slightly. Add avocado slices and crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle fresh lime juice over the entire salad, then finish with salsa or pico de gallo. Toss lightly or serve as is with toppings layered on top. Enjoy immediately for the best textures.
Notes
- Use fresh romaine lettuce for the best texture and flavor.
- Season the meat thoroughly for a flavor-packed base.
- Prep veggies and cook meat ahead of time for quick assembly.
- Add tortilla chips just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Try different dressings like creamy cilantro lime or zesty vinaigrette for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg