Quick Tex-Mex Dinner Salad
Are you craving something fresh and flavorful? Look no further than this quick Tex-Mex dinner salad! This vibrant dish combines delicious ingredients that capture the spirit of Tex-Mex cuisine. It’s perfect for dinner, offering a healthy twist on classic taco flavors. Imagine the crunch of fresh lettuce, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the savory taste of seasoned beef all coming together in one bowl. With this recipe, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please the whole family. #TexMex #Salad
This quick Tex-Mex dinner salad is not only tasty but also a healthy option that can be prepared in about 30 minutes. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to dig into a flavor-packed bowl that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll love this quick Tex-Mex dinner salad for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: Prep takes less than 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy a medley of fresh veggies and savory beef seasoned to perfection.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with nutrients, this salad keeps you feeling full and energized.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for leftovers—the flavors only get better!
How to Make Quick Tex-Mex Dinner Salad
Creating this delightful salad is straightforward and quick. Gather your ingredients, and follow these simple steps to serve up a colorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Directions:
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Step 2: Add taco seasoning and water according to the package instructions. Cook until thickened.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and kidney beans.
- Step 4: Top the salad with the cooked seasoned beef.
- Step 5: Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
Tools You’ll Need
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
How to Serve Quick Tex-Mex Dinner Salad
Serve your quick Tex-Mex dinner salad right away for the best taste. You can add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado for extra richness. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or corn salsa for a complete meal.
How to Store Quick Tex-Mex Dinner Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately in airtight containers. The beef can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while the veggies should be consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness. If you need to reheat the beef, do so in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Quick Tex-Mex Dinner Salad
- Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Fresh Herbs: Top the salad with cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
- Dressing: Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lime juice for additional flavor.
Variation (if any)
There are plenty of ways to customize this salad! You can swap ground beef for grilled chicken or turkey. If you want a veggie option, consider using black beans and adding grilled corn. For a gluten-free version, check the taco seasoning label or make your own!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: You can prep the ingredients in advance but mix them shortly before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?
A: Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein will work well in this recipe.
Q: Is this salad good for meal prep?
A: Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep—just store the components separately.
Q: How long does the leftover beef last?
A: The cooked beef can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze the beef?
A: Yes, cooked ground beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it before using.
Personal Cook’s Note
I absolutely love making this quick Tex-Mex dinner salad! It reminds me of sunny days spent with friends, enjoying good food and laughter. The first time I prepared it, my kids were hesitant about the beans. But once they tasted it, they couldn’t get enough! My tip: feel free to let your family help assemble the salad; it makes it a fun kitchen activity. I would love to hear your thoughts, experiences, or any tricks you’ve tried while making this dish. What variations have you come up with? Share your comments below!
Print
Quick Tex-Mex Dinner Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Description
A fresh and flavorful Tex-Mex dinner salad featuring ground beef, fresh veggies, and seasoned to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and water according to the package instructions. Cook until thickened.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and kidney beans.
- Top the salad with the cooked seasoned beef.
- Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
Notes
Customize the salad by adding toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado. Pair it with tortilla chips or corn salsa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
