Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Southwestern Salad that will transport you straight to the vibrant culinary landscapes of Mexico! This isn't just another boring salad – it's a flavor explosion that combines crisp romaine, creamy avocado, hearty black beans, and a sensational green chile lime dressing that will make your palate dance with joy. Perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or impressive side dish, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup green chile lime dressing
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse and drain the black beans in a colander and set aside. If using canned corn, drain and rinse it as well. If using frozen corn, cook it according to the package instructions and allow it to cool.
- Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water. Shake off excess water or use a salad spinner to dry the lettuce. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Dice the tomatoes and avocado. To dice the avocado, cut it in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Cut the avocado into cubes and add it to the salad bowl along with the diced tomatoes.
- Add the rinsed black beans and cooked corn to the salad bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine them evenly.
- Drizzle the green chile lime dressing over the salad. Start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste if desired. Toss the salad gently to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients.
- Once the salad is well mixed, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add salt, pepper, or additional lime juice if desired.
- Serve the Southwestern salad immediately in individual bowls or on plates. Enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish as a light meal or a side dish!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use freshly cooked corn instead of canned – the sweet, charred kernels make a huge difference!
- Dice your avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain that gorgeous green color.
- Make the green chile lime dressing ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together.
- For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or seasoned tofu.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure the best flavor blend and texture.
- If you like extra heat, sprinkle some fresh jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the spice level.
- Serve immediately after dressing to keep the lettuce crisp and prevent wilting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 551kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
