DESCRIPTION OF SOUTHWESTERN SALAD WITH AVOCADO DRESSING
This colourful southwestern salad with avocado dressing combines the crispness of romaine lettuce with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and corn, the richness of black beans, and the creaminess of avocado. Topped with a homemade creamy avocado dressing, this salad is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a nutritious addition to any meal. Ideal for those who appreciate a fresh, hearty salad with a Southwestern twist.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Lunch, Side
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 4
CUISINE
- Southwestern, American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Summer, BBQ, Picnic
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Healthy, High Fibre, Low Cholesterol, Vegan Option Available
DISH TYPE
- Salad
INGREDIENTS FOR SOUTHWESTERN SALAD WITH AVOCADO DRESSING
- Romaine Lettuce: 1 head, chopped
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Black Beans: 1 cup, drained and rinsed
- Corn: Kernels from 2 ears
- Avocado: 1/2, chopped
- Green Onions: 4, chopped
For the Dressing:
- Avocado: 1, fully mashed
- Garlic Clove: 1
- Cilantro Leaves: 1/4 cup
- Plain Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup
- Lime Juice: 3 Tbsp
- Hot Sauce: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 Tbsp
- Water: 1/4 to 1/2 cup, to adjust consistency
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 200mg
PREPARATION FOR SOUTHWESTERN SALAD WITH AVOCADO DRESSING
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, corn kernels, diced avocado, and green onions.
- Make the Dressing: In a blender, combine the mashed avocado, garlic, cilantro, Greek yoghurt, lime juice, optional hot sauce, salt, pepper, olive oil, and water. Blend until smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for about an hour before serving for enhanced flavours.
PREP TIME
- 20 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 0 minutes
TIPS FOR SOUTHWESTERN SALAD WITH AVOCADO DRESSING
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yoghurt with plant-based yoghurt.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
VARIATIONS
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce in the dressing for a spicier salad.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in some crushed tortilla chips just before serving for added texture.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR SOUTHWESTERN SALAD WITH AVOCADO DRESSING
- The dressed salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the undressed salad ingredients in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Mix with the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
This Southwestern Salad with Avocado Dressing offers a delightful blend of textures and flavours, making it a perfect dish for those who love fresh, filling, and flavorful salads. Enjoy it as a main dish or a hearty side at your next meal!