Authentic Fiesta Salad

Name: Authentic Fiesta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup salsa; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 10 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're looking to spice up your meal routine with a burst of vibrant flavors, this Authentic Fiesta Salad is your ticket to a festive feast! It’s packed with seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and crunchy tortilla chips, making it a delightful option for any day of the week.

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Ingredients for Authentic Fiesta Salad

The star of this salad is the ground beef, which provides hearty protein and richness. You'll season it with a taco seasoning mix for a punch of flavor that ties the whole dish together. Black beans add extra fiber and a creamy texture, while romaine lettuce offers a refreshing, crisp base. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness, and red onion adds a bite of sharpness. Cheddar cheese gives a savory edge, and tortilla chips contribute a satisfying crunch. Finally, a dollop of sour cream and a splash of salsa add tanginess, with fresh cilantro brightening up the dish with its characteristic freshness.

Tips & Tricks

For a lighter version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Use freshly grated cheese—it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded varieties.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef while cooking.
To keep the tortilla chips crunchy, add them just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with a side of warm flour tortillas or a bowl of tortilla soup. You might also enjoy it as a filling for a burrito or wrap for an on-the-go meal. A refreshing limeade or a cold cerveza (beer) would complement the flavors beautifully!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the beef and chop the veggies in advance, but wait to combine everything until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
What can I use instead of cilantro?: If you're not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or green onions for a different kind of freshness.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?: Absolutely! Substitute the beef with a plant-based ground meat or add extra beans and some roasted corn for a hearty vegetarian version.

Authentic Fiesta Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. You want to brown it nicely, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once it's cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep things from getting too greasy.

Next, stir in a packet of taco seasoning mix along with 3/4 cup of water. Let this simmer for 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.

While the beef is simmering, grab a large bowl and combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss them together lightly so they're well mixed.

Now, it's time to add the seasoned beef to your salad bowl. Toss in the black beans and shredded cheddar cheese. These ingredients are going to make your salad hearty and satisfying.

For that final touch, sprinkle the top with crushed tortilla chips. Add generous dollops of sour cream and a few spoonfuls of salsa. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Give everything a gentle toss to combine, and serve immediately to enjoy all those fresh flavors and textures.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Combines protein, veggies, and crunch in every bite.
Customizable with your favorite toppings and extras.
No boring salads here—each bite is full of zest and texture.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup tortilla chips, crushed

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup salsa

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.

2. Add taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup water to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

4. Add seasoned beef, black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese to the salad mixture.