Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crunchy Taco Salad Bowl

The Ultimate Taco Salad Recipe: A Delicious & Healthy Tex-Mex Dish


  • Author: ZACK
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 people 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This classic Taco Salad is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines crunchy textures, bold seasonings, and fresh ingredients. Inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine, it features seasoned ground beef or chicken, crisp lettuce, fresh veggies, and crunchy tortilla chips, all topped with a zesty dressing. Easy to customize, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings. Plus, it can be made low-carb, vegetarian, or keto-friendly with simple swaps.


Ingredients

Scale

Base & Greens

  • 6 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped – adds freshness and crunch
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes – brings a juicy, tangy element
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – provides richness
  • 1 avocado, diced – adds creaminess and healthy fats
  • ½ cup diced red onions – introduces mild sharpness

Protein & Crunch

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey – key protein component
  • 1 packet taco seasoning – infuses bold Tex-Mex flavors
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed – adds fiber and plant-based protein
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned) – offers sweetness and texture
  • ½ cup sliced black olives – enhances the dish with a salty, briny taste
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips – provides the signature crunch

Toppings & Garnishes

  • ½ cup salsa – a flavorful, low-calorie dressing
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt – adds a creamy, cooling contrast
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish – brightens up the dish

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meat

    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
    • Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and ½ cup water.
    • Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
    • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • Assemble the Salad

    • In a large serving bowl, toss together chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, black beans, corn, olives, and red onions.
    • Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
  • Add the Meat and Toppings

    • Spoon the cooked taco meat over the salad.
    • Sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
    • Drizzle with salsa and sour cream (or Greek yogurt).
  • Garnish and Serve

    • Finish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make it Low-Carb: Skip the tortilla chips and use cheese crisps or nuts.
  • For Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra beans.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Tossing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per 1 Cup Serving
  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Taco salad, healthy taco salad, easy Tex-Mex salad, taco bowl recipe, meal prep taco salad