This Tex-Mex Salad is a deliciously crunchy and flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy Catalina dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad brings all the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your table. Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to make this tasty dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground beef: One pound, cooked and seasoned to perfection.
- Taco seasoning mix: One packet, to flavor the ground beef.
- Water: Three-quarters of a cup, to help blend the seasoning with the beef.
- Lettuce: One head, shredded, for the salad base.
- Tomato: One large, diced, adding freshness and color.
- Cheddar cheese: One cup, shredded, for a rich and cheesy flavor.
- Kidney beans: One 15-ounce can, drained and rinsed, for added protein and texture.
- Tortilla chips: One 14.5-ounce bag, crushed, for a crunchy topping.
- Catalina dressing: One cup, for a sweet and tangy finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2:
- Add the taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture has thickened and the flavors are well combined, remove from heat.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, diced tomato, shredded cheddar cheese, and drained kidney beans. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 4:
- Add the cooked ground beef to the bowl with the lettuce mixture and toss to combine.
- Step 5:
- Just before serving, add the crushed tortilla chips and Catalina dressing to the salad. Toss everything together to coat the ingredients with the dressing.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the crunchy, flavorful Tex-Mex Salad.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Tex-Mex Salad immediately after preparing to enjoy the best texture and flavor. The fresh ingredients and crunchy tortilla chips are most delicious when served right away.
- Pair with a side of guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for added flavor. You can also serve this salad as a side dish with grilled chicken, tacos, or enchiladas for a complete meal.
- To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tortilla chips and dressing separate to maintain their crunch and texture.
- If making ahead of time, assemble the salad without the tortilla chips and dressing. Add them just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Helpful Notes
- Variations: Substitute ground beef with grilled chicken or black beans for a different protein option.
- Add-ins: Enhance the salad with additional ingredients like avocado, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Dressings: Try different dressings like a creamy cilantro lime or a spicy ranch for a new twist.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef's Tip: For a more robust flavor, let the ground beef mixture cool slightly before adding it to the salad. This will help the flavors meld better with the other ingredients.
- Chef's Tip: Make sure the lettuce and other vegetables are well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Chef's Tip: To keep the salad fresh and vibrant, chill all ingredients beforehand and assemble the salad just before serving.