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Southwest Chopped Salad

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Southwestern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Southwest Chopped Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables, black beans, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.


Ingredients

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For the Salad:

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional, for garnish)

For the Cilantro-Lime Dressing:

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dressing:

    • In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, Greek yogurt, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Assemble the Salad:

    • In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
  • Dress the Salad:

    • Pour the cilantro-lime dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  • Serve:

    • Transfer the salad to serving plates. Sprinkle with shredded pepper jack cheese and crushed tortilla chips, if using, for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • For added protein, top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
  • To make the dressing spicier, add a small jalapeño pepper when blending.
  • If preparing in advance, add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.