This bright and colorful Southwestern chopped salad is packed with fresh veggies, beans, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing that will make your taste buds dance!
The crunch from the vegetables and the tangy dressing make this salad a fun side or a light meal. I love to throw in some tortilla chips for an extra crunch—so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green adds crunch and is the base of the salad. If you prefer something softer, try using baby spinach or mixed greens instead.
Black Beans: They bring protein and fiber to the salad. If you’re looking for a different texture or flavor, white beans or chickpeas would make a great substitute.
Cilantro: It’s key for the dressing and adds freshness. If you don’t enjoy cilantro, you can use parsley for a milder flavor or even basil for something unique.
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess to the dressing. For a dairy-free option, swap it with coconut yogurt or a nut-based yogurt.
Avocado: A delicious addition that offers creaminess. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or add sliced olives instead for a different sort of richness.
How Do I Make a Great Salad Dressing?
Creating a flavorful dressing is crucial for your salad. Here’s a simple way to ensure it’s perfect every time:
- Start by adding the fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper to your blender or food processor.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth. This helps to combine all flavors well.
- If the dressing is too thick, dribble in some water and blend again until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste before adding it to your salad; you can always add more lime juice or honey to balance the flavors!
Getting your dressing right can make or break your salad, so don’t hesitate to adjust to your liking. Enjoy mixing!
How to Make Southwestern Chopped Salad With Cilantro-Lime Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen (thawed if frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cilantro-Lime Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to assemble and easy to make, perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the chopped romaine lettuce. Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, diced red onion, and diced bell pepper. If you like avocados, add diced avocado for some creaminess! Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top. This salad is colorful and healthy!
2. Make the Cilantro-Lime Dressing:
In a blender or food processor, add the fresh cilantro leaves, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend everything until smooth. If you find the dressing a bit too thick, just add a little water to reach the consistency you like.
3. Combine and Serve:
Pour the delicious cilantro-lime dressing over your salad and toss everything gently to combine. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you wish. For an extra touch, garnish with more cilantro. Serve your salad immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors. Enjoy your refreshing Southwestern Chopped Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of black beans, feel free to substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure to drain and rinse them similarly for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cilantro-lime dressing ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it thickens while sitting, simply stir in a little water to thin it back out before using.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
For best results, store the leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad can last for about 1 day in the fridge, but keep in mind that the avocado may brown. To minimize browning, you can toss the avocado with a bit of lime juice before storing it.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even some corn salsa for an extra crunch. Just remember to adjust the quantities to maintain balance in flavors and textures! Enjoy creating your perfect blend!
