Southwestern Chopped Salad With Cilantro-lime Dressing

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Romaine Lettuce: This leafy base adds crunch and freshness. If you want something different, use kale or spinach – they also hold up well in salads.

Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and color to the salad. Grape tomatoes can be used instead, or any fresh tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Black Beans: They add protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a substitute, canned kidney beans or chickpeas work great too!

Corn: Fresh corn is lovely, but frozen or canned corn is just as tasty and saves prep time. You can also swap it with diced bell peppers for extra crunch.

Cilantro: This herb gives a fresh, vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a milder alternative. You can skip it entirely if you prefer!

How Do I Make a Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing?

The dressing is a key part of this salad, bringing everything together with creamy, zesty goodness. Here’s how to make it perfectly:

• Start with Greek yogurt for creaminess, or use sour cream for a tangy touch. Both are great options!
• Mix in mayonnaise to enhance the creaminess. A little goes a long way.
• Whisk in the lime juice thoroughly – it adds that fresh, zesty punch.
• Add minced garlic for flavor. Just one clove is enough to pack a punch without overwhelming the dressing.
• Feel free to add honey or agave for a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lime.

Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste. This will really elevate the flavors!

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 canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup green onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced (optional)

For the Cilantro-Lime Dressing:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop the veggies and mix everything together. You can serve it right away or let it chill for an hour in the fridge — the flavors get even better!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, corn, sliced green onion, diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together gently until mixed well.

2. Make the Cilantro-Lime Dressing:

In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, and optional honey or agave. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix until everything is smooth and creamy.

3. Combine Salad and Dressing:

Drizzle the cilantro-lime dressing over your salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything together gently so that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Take your time here – you want to make sure each bite is flavorful!

4. Add Avocado and Serve:

If you’re using avocado, add the diced pieces just before serving. Mix lightly to avoid mashing the avocado. Serve your salad immediately for a fresh and crunchy experience, or you can refrigerate it for up to an hour to enjoy a chilled salad. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Can I Use Different Greens Instead of Romaine Lettuce?

Absolutely! You can substitute romaine with other greens like spinach, kale, or mixed salad greens. If using sturdier greens like kale, consider massaging them with a bit of olive oil to soften their texture before adding the other ingredients.

How Long Does the Salad Last in the Fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the dressing can make the lettuce soggy over time. To keep it fresher longer, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the cilantro-lime dressing in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir or shake before using, as some ingredients may settle.

What Are Some Good Substitutions for Black Beans?

If you don’t have black beans on hand, you can substitute with pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. Rinse and drain canned versions of these beans just like you would with black beans before adding them to the salad.