Tex Mex Chopped Salad

Ingredients

Dressing:

1 cup ranch dressing

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

Salad:

3 cups cooked chicken

4 cups salad mix

2 roma tomatoes, chopped

1 cucumber, chopped

1 cup can corn

4-5 green onions, chopped

1 can black beans, drained & rinsed

1 cup colby jack cheese, cubed

1 tablespoon cilantro

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 cup tortilla chips, crushed

Pumpkin seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

In a small bowl, mix dressing ingredients until well combined, set aside

Step 2:

In a large bowl combine all salad ingredients except pumpkin seeds and ¼ cup of crushed chips, mix until well combined

Step 3:

Toss in dressing

Top with crushed chips and pumpkin seeds,

Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition Information

Yiels: 8 | Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving

Calories: 80 | Total Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different dressing for this salad?

Yes, you can customize the dressing to your preference.

A lime vinaigrette or avocado dressing could work well.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken, or should it be cooked fresh for the salad?

You can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, to save time.

Can I use a different type of cheese if I don’t have colby jack?

Absolutely, feel free to use cheddar, pepper jack, or any cheese of your choice.

How far in advance can I make the dressing?

You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the salad.

Can I make this salad vegetarian by omitting the chicken?

Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken or substituting it with tofu or a plant-based protein.

Can I add avocado to the salad?

Yes, avocado would be a delicious addition.

Add it just before serving to prevent browning.

What’s the best way to crush tortilla chips for the topping?

Place the tortilla chips in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the back of a spoon.

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw it before adding it to the salad, or you can briefly cook it if you prefer.

Can I substitute lime juice with lemon juice?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice if you don’t have lime juice, but lime juice adds a unique flavor to the Tex Mex theme.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Keep the crushed chips separate until ready to serve to maintain their crunchiness.