Introduction
Taco salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for casual gatherings and quick weeknight dinners. This Easy & Classic Taco Salad Recipe brings together seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and crunchy toppings for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a party, this taco salad is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 lbs. ground beef
– 1 tsp. sea salt
– 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
– 1 tsp. chili powder
– 1 tsp. cumin
– 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp. onion powder
– 1 head romaine lettuce (or 2 romaine hearts)
– 2 cups sliced cucumber
– 8 oz. grape or cherry tomatoes
– 4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 15 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
– Zesty French dressing (Western, Catalina, etc.)
– Nacho cheese Doritos for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Add the tomato paste, sea salt, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder to the skillet. Mix everything well. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the beef is thoroughly cooked.
3. While the beef is cooking, prepare the other ingredients: wash and thinly slice the lettuce, wash and cut the tomatoes in half, and shred the cheddar cheese if needed.
4. In a large bowl or plate, layer the lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and black beans.
5. Top the salad with the cooked beef mixture and drizzle with your choice of dressing.
6. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese and crushed Doritos on top, along with any additional toppings you prefer.
Enjoy the vibrant layers of flavor in every bite of this easy taco salad, a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 lbs. of ground beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Stir in 2 Tbsp. of tomato paste, 2 tsp. of sea salt, 1 tsp. of chili powder, 1 tsp. of cumin, 1/2 tsp. of garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp. of onion powder. Mix everything well. (If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water.)
Step 3: Finish Cooking the Beef
Continue to cook the beef mixture for another 3-4 minutes, until the meat is cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
While the beef is cooking, wash and thinly slice 1 head of romaine lettuce. Next, wash and cut 8 oz. of grape or cherry tomatoes in half. If necessary, shred 4 oz. of sharp cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Assemble the Taco Salad
In a large bowl or plate, layer the prepared lettuce, 2 cups of sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, and the drained and rinsed 15 oz. can of black beans. Top this layer with the cooked beef mixture.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Drizzle zesty French dressing over the salad. Sprinkle 4 oz. of shredded cheddar cheese and crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos on top. You may also add any other desired toppings.
Notes
Ingredient Adjustments
Feel free to modify the ingredients according to personal preferences, such as using ground turkey instead of beef or adding other vegetables.
Serving Size
This recipe serves a large number of people, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad components separately to maintain freshness, especially the beef and vegetables. Assemble just before serving to keep the Doritos crunchy.
Customization Options
Consider adding toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or olives for additional flavor. Adjust the dressing quantity based on desired taste.
Cook techniques
Ground Beef Cooking
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. This creates a crumbly texture that’s essential for taco salads.
Seasoning the Beef
After browning the beef, mix in tomato paste, sea salt, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step enhances the flavor profile of the beef and gives it a rich taste.
Vegetable Preparation
While the beef cooks, wash and prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the romaine lettuce and cucumber, and cut grape or cherry tomatoes in half. This ensures that all ingredients are fresh and ready for layering.
Layering the Salad
In a large bowl or plate, layer the prepared lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and black beans. Layering is key for presentation and ensures that each bite has a mix of flavors.
Serving with Toppings
After layering, top the salad with the cooked beef mixture, drizzle with zesty dressing, and finish with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed Doritos. This adds texture and enhances the overall flavor.
FAQ
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option.
What kind of dressing works best?
Zesty French dressing, such as Western or Catalina, enhances the flavors of the salad, but you can also use other vinaigrettes or dressings based on your preference.
Can I make this salad in advance?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to combine the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Are there any recommended toppings?
You can add toppings such as sliced olives, avocado, jalapeños, or green onions to give your taco salad a personal touch.
What can I use instead of Doritos?
If you want a healthier option, consider using baked tortilla chips or crushed corn chips, or skip the chips altogether if you prefer a low-carb version.
Conclusion
Taco salad is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the flavors of classic tacos with the freshness of a salad. With its hearty ground beef, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing, it’s a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This easy recipe allows for customization, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Taco Salad
Substitute ground beef with shredded grilled chicken for a lighter option. Add avocado slices and fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Vegetarian Taco Salad
Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Use quinoa or brown rice as a hearty base, and top with a tangy lime dressing.
Fiesta Taco Salad
Incorporate corn, diced green chilies, and jalapeños for a spicy kick. Serve with tortilla strips and a zesty jalapeño vinaigrette.
Mediterranean Taco Salad
Use ground lamb or beef seasoned with oregano and rosemary. Add feta cheese, olives, and a Greek yogurt dressing for a Mediterranean twist.
BBQ Taco Salad
Mix in some pulled pork or shredded BBQ chicken and top with coleslaw and BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor explosion.
Breakfast Taco Salad
Add scrambled eggs, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a sprinkle of queso fresco for a fun breakfast twist on the classic taco salad.