Unleash a burst of vibrant flavors with our Fiesta Flair Taco Salad! This dish is a colorful, delicious mix of fresh greens, seasoned ground meat, and a variety of toppings, all infused with the spirited zest of Mexican cuisine. It's a perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal or a fun party dish.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Yields 4 servings
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g
Ingredients
- Ground beef - 400 grams (14 ounces)
- Taco seasoning - 1 packet or homemade mix
- Romaine lettuce, chopped - 1 head
- Cherry tomatoes, halved - 150 grams (5.3 ounces)
- Black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 can (15 ounces)
- Sweet corn - 150 grams (5.3 ounces)
- Cheddar cheese, shredded - 150 grams (5.3 ounces)
- Tortilla chips, crushed - 1 cup
- Avocado, diced - 1
- Red onion, finely chopped - 1 small
- Fresh cilantro, chopped - for garnish
- Lime wedges - for serving
- Sour cream - for serving
- Salsa - for serving
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and cook according to packet instructions (usually with a bit of water, simmering until thickened).
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, and corn.
- Add the cooked taco meat to the salad.
- Top with shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, and chopped red onion.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges, sour cream, and salsa on the side.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite taco toppings, like jalapeños or bell peppers.
- For a healthier version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or go vegetarian with quinoa.
- Toss the salad right before serving to keep the tortilla chips crunchy.
- Consider serving the salad with a lime-cilantro vinaigrette for an extra zest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the tortilla chips and avocado just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, without the chips and avocado.
Can I use bottled taco seasoning?
Absolutely, but making your own allows for customization of flavors and control over salt and spice levels.
Your Fiesta Flair Taco Salad is a celebration in a bowl, brimming with flavors and textures that'll make your taste buds dance! It's not just a meal; it's a fiesta of deliciousness that brings joy and vibrancy to your table. Enjoy this delightful culinary creation!