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Southwest Salad Recipe

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4 from 14 reviews

This Southwest Salad is a vibrant, flavorful side dish perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Packed with fresh romaine lettuce, colorful bell peppers, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, avocado, and seasoned chicken, it’s complemented by a creamy homemade ranch dressing with a spicy jalapeño kick. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s great for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 large orange bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 (15.25-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 2 cups corn
  • 1 avocado, sliced or cubed
  • 2 chicken breasts, seasoned to taste, cooked and cubed
  • Diced green onions (optional)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

  • ⅓-½ cup milk
  • 1 packet Ranch dip or dressing mix (or 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1-3 teaspoons diced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender, starting with ⅓ cup milk. Blend until smooth. Add additional milk as needed to achieve your desired dressing consistency. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, orange bell pepper, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, avocado, cooked chicken cubes, diced green onions, and fresh cilantro if using. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
  3. Serve: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp. Toss lightly to coat if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust jalapeño quantity to control the heat level of the dressing.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken or replace with grilled tofu or beans.
  • Cook chicken seasoned to your taste, such as with cumin and chili powder, to enhance the southwest flavor profile.
  • Use freshly chopped cilantro in both salad and dressing for vibrant herbal freshness.
  • Refrigerate any leftover dressing and stir well before reusing.

Find it online: https://glowcooks.com/southwest-salad-recipe/