Ingredients
Salad
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (freshly cooked, frozen and thawed, or canned and drained)
- 1 (15oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Optional additions
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 1/4 cup shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese
Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup packed cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons honey or agave for sweetness
Instructions
1. Prepare the veggies: Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Dice the red bell pepper and red onion. Drain and rinse the black beans and corn.
2. Make the dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings with more lime juice, cumin, salt, or pepper to your preference.
3. Assemble the salad: Add all salad ingredients to a large bowl. Toss with desired amount of dressing.
4. Garnish and serve: Add your optional additions like grilled chicken, shrimp, avocado, and/or cheese. Can be topped with crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. Enjoy immediately!
Tips
Make it ahead: You can chop your veggies and prep the dressing in advance for a quick assembly later. Store separately until you’re ready to build the salad.
Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño to the salad or dressing for more heat.
Adjust to your taste: This is a very adaptable recipe! Change the proportions of veggies, add in grilled steak, or swap in your favorite cheese.
