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- 1 pound ground beef or turkey - 1 packet taco seasoning - 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup bell peppers, diced - 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup mayonnaise - 2 tablespoons lime juice - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste

Crunchy Taco Salad with Homemade Dressing

Discover the vibrant flavors of Crunchy Taco Salad Fiesta, a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy dinners. This recipe combines savory ground beef or turkey with fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and crispy tortilla chips for a delightful meal everyone will enjoy. It's versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, whether you opt for meat or a vegetarian twist. Explore the layers of taste and texture in this delicious, customizable salad that’s set to impress!
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Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 bell pepper, diced (choose red or yellow for sweetness)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup tortilla chips, crushed

1 avocado, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Homemade Dressing:

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook the meat while breaking it apart with a spatula until it is evenly browned, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add a splash of water if needed to help blend the spices. Continue to cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the meat is well seasoned. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

      Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, start by layering the chopped romaine lettuce at the bottom. Then, add the cooked taco meat evenly on top. Next, layer the halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, and avocado. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire salad.

        Add Crunch: Just before serving, generously sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips over the salad. This will provide a delightful crunch in every bite.

          Dress the Salad: Drizzle the homemade dressing evenly over the salad. Use salad tongs or large spoons to gently toss the salad, ensuring that all ingredients are combined without crushing the tortilla chips too much.

            Garnish and Serve: If desired, finish off by sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color. Serve the salad immediately while the tortilla chips are still crisp for the best texture!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4-6