Description
A vibrant and fresh Mexican Chopped Salad bursting with crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and zesty lime dressing seasoned with chili powder and cumin. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal or side dish with a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (canned, drained or fresh)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace for efficient assembly of the salad.
- Wash Lettuce: Rinse romaine lettuce thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or grit, then pat dry with a clean towel to avoid sogginess.
- Chop Lettuce: Cut the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and transfer to a large mixing bowl to form the salad base.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Rinse cherry tomatoes under cool water and slice them in half, then add to the bowl with lettuce.
- Prepare Cucumber: Wash the cucumber, peel if desired, dice into small pieces, and add to the salad bowl for a refreshing crunch.
- Slice Onion: Peel the red onion, slice thinly to avoid overpowering flavors, and add it to the bowl for subtle sharpness.
- Chop Cilantro: Rinse cilantro, remove tough stems, finely chop, and sprinkle into the salad for fresh herbal notes.
- Add Beans: Drain and rinse black beans thoroughly, then add them to the salad for protein and texture.
- Add Corn: Drain canned corn well or use cooked fresh or frozen corn, then mix into the salad for sweetness and color.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad to add creaminess and a tangy flavor contrast.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated and combined.
Notes
- For a spicier salad, add finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with cotija or queso fresco for more authentic Mexican flavor.
- Use fresh corn when in season for sweeter, crunchier kernels.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain crisp textures.
- Feel free to add avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.
