Go Back
+ servings
Taco Salad

Zesty Taco Salad Ready in 30 Minutes for a Flavor Boost

This Taco Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based proteins if desired.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can be swapped with vegetable or canola oil.
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning Opt for homemade or store-bought brands.
  • 1 can Black Beans Rinse canned beans to lower sodium levels.
  • 4 cups Romaine Lettuce Substitute with mixed greens or spinach for variety.
  • 1 Avocado For a sweeter twist, try diced mango instead.
  • 1 cup Whole Kernel Corn Fresh or frozen corn works well.
  • 2 Roma Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes make a juicy alternative.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Use cheddar, mozzarella, or omit for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice Fresh lime is best, but bottled juice is a handy alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Feel free to use green onions or shallots instead.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Optional based on personal taste.
  • 1 bag Tortilla Chips Crushed chips make a wonderful topping.
  • 1 cup Chunky Red Salsa Can be interchanged with Catalina or Thousand Island dressing.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Suggested dressing options.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Taco Salad
  1. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 pound of lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle in 1 packet of taco seasoning, stirring well. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked, then remove from heat to cool.
  2. Next, integrate 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans into the cooked ground beef. Pour in half of the 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, stirring the mixture to combine thoroughly. Allow the beef and black bean mixture to sit and cool to room temperature while you prepare the salad ingredients.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of chopped romaine lettuce, 1 diced avocado, 1 cup of whole kernel corn, and 2 diced Roma tomatoes. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and ¼ cup of finely chopped red onion. Drizzle the remaining lime juice over the mixture and toss everything gently to ensure even distribution of flavors.
  4. Once the beef mixture has cooled, carefully fold it into the salad bowl. Gently toss the mixture to incorporate all ingredients without bruising the fresh veggies. This Taco Salad is now filled with vibrant colors and textures, ready for the next step.
  5. Transfer the assembled taco salad to individual bowls or a large serving platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve alongside a bowl of tortilla chips, and offer chunky red salsa and sour cream for drizzling, turning this meal into a delightful family favorite.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store salad components separately until serving to maintain crispness, especially the tortilla chips and dressing.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!