Description
Taco Salad Delight offers a refreshing and colorful twist on the traditional taco salad. This delightful dish combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with crispy homemade tortilla strips and a vibrant array of fresh vegetables and toppings. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or as a festive addition to any mealtime.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 2 c. (or more) vegetable oil
- 2 (4) corn tortillas, cut into 1/4 strips
- 2 heads romaine, chopped
- 2 1/2 c. halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained, rinsed
- 1 c. shredded cheddar
- 1/2 c. pico de gallo
- 1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 c. sour cream
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1
In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Add the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and fully cooked, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 2
In a separate large skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high until hot but not smoking. Fry the tortilla strips until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and immediately season with salt.
Step 3
In a large bowl, lightly season the chopped romaine with a pinch of salt. Add the cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, and the cooked beef mixture, tossing to combine. Top with shredded cheddar, pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips. Finish by adding dollops of sour cream.
Servings & Preparation Time
Servings: 4-6 people
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Reheat the beef mixture gently in a microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
- Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables and tortilla strips crisp.
Conclusion
Taco Salad Delight is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate, marrying the crunch and zest of traditional taco ingredients with a modern touch. This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal cooking skills and delivering maximum flavor. It is perfect for those seeking a quick, nutritious meal that does not compromise on taste. Enjoy your delightful homemade taco salad that brings a touch of festivity to any meal!
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Taco Salad Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 people 1x
Description
Taco Salad Delight offers a refreshing and colorful twist on the traditional taco salad. This delightful dish combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with crispy homemade tortilla strips and a vibrant array of fresh vegetables and toppings. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or as a festive addition to any mealtime.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 2 c. (or more) vegetable oil
- 2 (4) corn tortillas, cut into 1/4 strips
- 2 heads romaine, chopped
- 2 1/2 c. halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained, rinsed
- 1 c. shredded cheddar
- 1/2 c. pico de gallo
- 1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 c. sour cream
Instructions
- In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Add the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and fully cooked, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a separate large skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high until hot but not smoking. Fry the tortilla strips until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and immediately season with salt.
- In a large bowl, lightly season the chopped romaine with a pinch of salt. Add the cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, and the cooked beef mixture, tossing to combine. Top with shredded cheddar, pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips. Finish by adding dollops of sour cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes