Looking for a vibrant, mouthwatering meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further than the "Eating for Life Cool Taco Salad"! This delightful Mexican-inspired dish combines the heartiness of seasoned ground turkey or beef with fresh, crisp vegetables, making it the perfect choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a colorful salad that not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritious punch. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 avocado, diced
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables. Rinse black beans thoroughly and drain corn if using canned.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey or beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the meat for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is completely browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the meat and stir well. Add 1/4 cup water and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is fully incorporated and the meat is evenly coated.
- While the meat is cooking, shred the lettuce and place it in a large serving bowl as the base of the salad.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, and prepare the black beans and corn.
- Once the meat is seasoned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
- Layer the salad by adding the seasoned meat on top of the lettuce, then arrange black beans, corn, tomatoes, and diced avocado.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the salad and top with salsa.
- Serve immediately while the meat is still warm, and enjoy your cool taco salad.
Tips
- Choose Your Protein Wisely: Ground turkey is a healthier alternative to beef, but feel free to use your favorite protein or even go vegetarian with black beans as the main ingredient.
- Prep Ahead: Save time by washing and chopping your vegetables in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge so they’re ready to go when you are.
- Customize Your Salad: Don't be afraid to add your favorite toppings! Consider including jalapeños for a kick, or switch up the cheese to feta for a unique twist.
- Layer for Flavor: When assembling the salad, layer the ingredients in a way that allows each bite to include a bit of everything. This ensures you get a perfect mix of flavors in every scoop!
- Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve your taco salad immediately after assembling. The warmth of the meat combined with the coolness of the veggies makes for a delightful contrast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
