Craving a quick, mouthwatering salad that transports your taste buds straight to the vibrant landscapes of New Mexico? This chopped salad is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will make your palate dance! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's both nutritious and incredibly satisfying, perfect for those seeking a light yet exciting lunch or dinner option.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Ensure lettuce is thoroughly dried to prevent a watery salad.
- Drain and rinse the black beans under cold water to remove excess sodium. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
- If using fresh corn, briefly blanch or grill the kernels for enhanced flavor. If using frozen corn, thaw completely and pat dry.
- Dice the tomatoes into uniform small cubes, approximately 1/4 inch in size for consistent texture.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice into similar-sized pieces as the tomatoes. Immediately toss with lime juice to prevent browning.
- Finely chop fresh cilantro, discarding thick stems and keeping the tender leaves and thin stems.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine romaine lettuce, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and avocado.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salad mixture.
- Drizzle lime juice evenly across the salad, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even distribution of flavors and dressing.
- For best results, serve immediately to maintain crisp texture and fresh taste.
Tips
- Maximize Flavor: Always use fresh ingredients and pat them dry to prevent a watery salad.
- Corn Technique: If using fresh corn, briefly grilling or blanching enhances its natural sweetness.
- Avocado Preservation: Toss avocado immediately with lime juice to prevent browning and add a tangy kick.
- Texture Matters: Aim for uniform, bite-sized ingredient cuts to ensure every forkful is perfectly balanced.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare just before serving to maintain crisp textures.
- Optional Protein Boost: Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding jalapeños or a dash of chili powder for authentic New Mexican flair.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 242kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
