Mexican Chopped Salad Recipe

Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Mexican Chopped Salad is the perfect addition to your dinner table or a fantastic standalone meal. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein, and a zesty dressing, this salad is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a light lunch, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Make sure to chop the romaine lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the bell pepper and avocado into bite-sized pieces. The more colorful, the better!
2. Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, diced bell pepper, avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix well.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. This will enhance the flavor and bring the whole salad together.
5. Top with Cheese: Once the salad is dressed, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. You can use as much or as little as you like, depending on your cheese preference.
6. Serve: Serve the Mexican Chopped Salad immediately for the freshest taste. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the vegetables from wilting.

Serving Suggestions:

• This salad makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or tacos.
• For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad.
• It can also be served as a filling in wraps or as a topping for quesadillas.

Tips for Success:

• Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients, such as jalapeños for some heat or radishes for extra crunch.
• If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the lime dressing.
• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

This Mexican Chopped Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s a salad that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Mexico to your table!