This Taco Salad is a fun and colorful way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo! Packed with flavorful ingredients like seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and crispy tortilla strips, it’s a feast on a plate.
I love how you can top it with your favorites like cheese, salsa, or guacamole. It’s quick to make and perfect for sharing—just don’t be surprised if everyone wants seconds! 🌮🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for your taco salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead. For a vegetarian twist, substitute with black beans or textured vegetable protein.
Taco Seasoning: I love using a packet of taco seasoning for convenience, but you can easily make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a fresher flavor.
Black Beans: These add great texture and protein. If black beans aren’t your favorite, pinto or kidney beans work just as well. Canned beans are a quick option, but rinsing them helps remove excess sodium.
Romaine Lettuce: While romaine works perfectly for the salad base, feel free to swap in other greens like iceberg, spinach, or mixed greens for different flavors and textures.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic, but you can use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking ground beef might seem straightforward, but it’s easy to dry it out. Here’s how to keep it juicy:
- Use medium heat when cooking. High heat can lead to tough meat.
- Break the meat apart gently with a spatula as it cooks. This helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t skip draining excess fat! But don’t remove it all; a little fat adds flavor.
- When you add the taco seasoning, stir in the specified amount of water. This keeps everything moist and flavorful.
How to Make Cinco De Mayo Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Salad:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This taco salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. In this time, you’ll brown the beef, mix it with the taco seasoning, and assemble the salad layers. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to break it apart with a spatula so it cooks evenly!
2. Add the Taco Seasoning:
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix, adding the amount of water as directed on the packet. Stir everything together and let it simmer until the sauce thickens up nicely.
3. Incorporate the Black Beans:
Next, add the black beans to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir gently and let them heat through for a couple of minutes. Then take the skillet off the heat—your filling is ready!
4. Build the Salad Base:
Grab a large salad bowl or serving plate and spread the chopped romaine lettuce evenly as the base of your salad.
5. Layer the Taco Beef and Beans:
Now, take your prepared taco beef and black bean mixture and layer it evenly over the romaine lettuce.
6. Add Fresh Toppings:
Sprinkle on the diced tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro, making sure everything looks colorful and delicious!
7. Serve with Guacamole:
Top off your salad with a generous dollop of guacamole right in the center or spread it out over the top.
8. Final Touches and Enjoy:
Serve your taco salad immediately, and if you like, add some lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. Enjoy your festive Cinco De Mayo Taco Salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit differently, so monitor them closely to avoid drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Guacamole?
If you’re not a fan of guacamole, try using sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a zesty avocado dressing as a delicious substitute. Each adds a creamy element to the salad!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the salad ingredients separate from the dressing to maintain freshness. To reheat, warm up the beef and beans, and then reassemble your salad for a fresh meal!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include your favorite veggies like bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños for added crunch and flavor. Just chop them small so they layer nicely in the salad.
