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Easy Weeknight Taco Salad with Zesty Dressing

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a fresh taco salad, featuring seasoned ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and cheese sauce.
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Make this classic American taco salad quickly for a family-friendly dinner. This recipe focuses on seasoned ground beef, fresh toppings, and a simple, zesty homemade dressing.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 head iceberg or romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped tomato
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or Doritos (optional for crunch)
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Catalina or French dressing
  • 2 tablespoons salsa
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in taco seasoning mix and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Catalina or French dressing, salsa, cumin, and chili powder until smooth.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cooked taco meat.
  5. If making individual servings, layer the ingredients in bowls: lettuce, meat, cheese, tomatoes, onions, and olives.
  6. Drizzle the zesty dressing over the salad.
  7. Top with crushed tortilla chips or Doritos just before serving for maximum crunch.

Notes

  • For a low-carb taco salad bowl, skip the crushed chips/Doritos and use extra vegetables like bell peppers or avocado slices.
  • You can make the taco meat and dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To make this a layered taco salad bowl presentation, place all ingredients in distinct layers in a clear glass bowl.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/easy-taco-salad-recipe-under-30-minutes/