Easy Taco Salad Recipe

This taco salad is a delicious and simple way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos in a fresh, crunchy bowl!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

• 1/2 cup water

Salad Base:

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)

• 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1/4 cup salsa

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Ground Beef:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Drain excess fat, then stir in salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and crushed red pepper.

4. Add 1/2 cup water and let simmer for 5 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt), salsa, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, black beans, corn, red onion, and black olives.

2. Add the cooked ground beef on top.

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to combine.

4. Sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, flavorful taco salad!