Ellie'S Mexican Salad
A vibrant Mexican salad layered with seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, perfect for casual gatherings and flavorful, easy-to-prepare meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and drain excess fat.
- Layer ingredients in order: torn lettuce, cooked hamburger, chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, grated Cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, drained kidney beans, crunched tortilla chips, and French dressing.
- Serve at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting sour cream for the French dressing or adding a dollop on top before serving. If you want a spicier kick, mix in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use ground turkey or chicken in place of hamburger for a lighter option. Fresh cilantro can enhance the flavors, so feel free to sprinkle some on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad with a side of corn on the cob or fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with La Puerta Taco Dip for an appetizer spread. If you're looking for more Mexican recipes, consider serving alongside Mexican Brownies for a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, separate the ingredients as much as possible to avoid sogginess, especially the tortilla chips. You can warm the hamburger and beans on the stove or microwave, and then layer everything again for a fresh presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ellie'S Mexican Salad contains roughly 829 calories, with 26g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2577mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and store them separately. Keep the dressing on the side until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. This way, the salad remains crisp and delicious!
What can I substitute for kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes. They both provide a similar texture and flavor. You could also use chickpeas for a different twist, adding extra protein and fiber to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just portion out the ingredients into meal containers, keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This allows you to enjoy a fresh salad throughout the week without compromising flavor or texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).