Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Taco Salad with Catalina Dressing recipe is your answer. It's a delicious, healthy meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering. This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of traditional tacos with the satisfying crunch of a fresh salad, all tossed in a tangy Catalina dressing. Get ready for a taste explosion!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves 2-3 people, but can be easily doubled or tripled depending on your needs.
For the Salad:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
For the Catalina Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions:
Get started with the ground beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning according to package directions.
Prepare the salad components:
- While the beef cooks, chop the romaine lettuce, dice the bell pepper and red onion, and prepare the other salad ingredients. This helps keep everything moving efficiently.
Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, lettuce, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- Gently toss to combine.
Make the Catalina dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, red wine vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika until smooth and creamy.
Finishing touches:
- Add the diced avocado (if using) just before serving to maintain its freshness and vibrant green color.
- Drizzle the Catalina dressing generously over the salad.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the ground beef for extra heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as shredded carrots, diced tomatoes, or chopped jalapenos.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Homemade taco seasoning: For a healthier and more flavorful option, try making your own taco seasoning. Numerous recipes are available online.
- Leftovers: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may separate slightly, so give it a good toss before enjoying.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Taco Salad with Catalina Dressing is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It’s a simple, delicious, and customizable dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!