Description
A vibrant and fresh taco salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce, black beans, cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese, all tossed in a zesty olive oil and lime dressing with taco seasoning. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups Romaine Lettuce, chopped
- 1 can Black Beans (15-ounce, rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium Avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup Red Onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
- 1 tablespoon Taco Seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare Lettuce: Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl to form the base of the salad.
- Add Black Beans: Rinse and drain the black beans from the can to remove excess sodium and liquid. Add the beans directly into the salad bowl with the lettuce.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half to release their juicy sweetness. Add them to the salad bowl, enhancing the salad’s color and flavor.
- Incorporate Avocado: Dice the avocado into small cubes and gently fold it into the salad to distribute the creamy texture evenly without mashing it.
- Add Red Onion: Finely chop the red onion and add it to the salad to introduce a sharp and tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the avocado.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the salad, contributing richness and a mild sharp flavor.
- Add Cilantro: Chop the fresh cilantro finely and sprinkle it over the salad to add a bright, herbal note that lifts the dish’s overall freshness.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and taco seasoning until well combined to create a flavorful and zesty dressing.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
- Final Taste and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe avocado for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Optional: Add tortilla chips or crushed tortilla shells for extra crunch.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or cooked ground beef seasoned with taco spices.
- If preferred, substitute cheddar cheese with a low-fat or vegan cheese option.
- Make sure to toss the salad gently after dressing to avoid mashing delicate ingredients like avocado.
