When it comes to winning my heart over with a salad, there’s one key element I can’t resist: tortilla chips. Whether they’re mixed into the salad or forming a crispy tortilla bowl, they bring that perfect crunch to the party. Taco salad is a clever creation, boldly flaunting its zesty, creamy, cheesy, and chip-laden character. The Black Bean Taco Salad I’m about to share not only embraces these attributes but also steals the spotlight with its minimal cooking requirements. With just a bit of stirring and chopping, you’ll have a hearty, vibrant, and utterly irresistible salad ready to steal the show.
While I appreciate a meaty taco salad, I must admit that I savor this vegetarian version just as much. It’s become my go-to choice for a speedy lunch, as it requires no cooking, making it a quick and satisfying option. Of course, satiating your hunger is essential, but flavor reigns supreme in my book, and this salad certainly doesn’t disappoint. Let’s dive into the recipe, starting with the dressing.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of crisp romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) of sweet corn kernels, well-drained
- 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1/3 cup of chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup of tortilla chips, satisfyingly crushed
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup of rich sour cream
- 1/4 cup of zesty salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin, providing a warm depth of flavor
- Juice from half a lime, infusing a citrusy zing
- Salt, to tailor the taste to your liking
Preparation:
- Let’s kick things off by crafting that sensational dressing. In a small bowl, combine the velvety sour cream, the lively salsa, the grounding cumin, the zesty lime juice, and a dash of salt for balance. If you happen to have chunky salsa, a quick whirl in the food processor can create a smoother consistency. Set this luscious dressing aside or refrigerate it until it’s showtime.
- In a generously sized bowl, unite the crisp romaine lettuce, the vibrant bell pepper, the protein-packed black beans, the sweet corn kernels, the juicy diced tomatoes, the aromatic green onions, the luscious cheddar cheese, and, of course, those delectable crushed tortilla chips.
- It’s time to bring it all together. Pour your desired amount of that fantastic dressing over the salad, and gently toss the medley to ensure all the flavors meld harmoniously. The key here is balance and satisfaction, and with this Black Bean Taco Salad, you’re in for a taste adventure that hits all the right notes. Enjoy!
image source: 99 easy recipes
