Meal In One Mexican Salad
A hearty, flavorful Mexican-inspired salad featuring seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, crisp lettuce, and fresh green onions, all coated in a tangy French dressing. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it combines savory, tangy, and fresh flavors in a satisfying one-bowl meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onion and cook until tender.
- Stir in kidney beans, French dressing, water, and chili powder.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Combine shredded lettuce and sliced green onions in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked beef mixture to the lettuce and green onions.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic with the onion. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different taste. To amp up the heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is delightful on its own but can also be served with tortilla chips or warm tortillas on the side for a complete meal. Pair with a refreshing salsa or guacamole for added flavor. It also complements well with other Mexican recipes like Beef And Rice Casserole for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the salad mixture gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. Avoid reheating the lettuce to maintain its freshness and crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meal In One Mexican Salad contains roughly 604 calories, with 37g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and protein (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 622mg per serving (27% 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 beef mixture in advance and store it separately from the lettuce and green onions. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. This way, you can enjoy a fresh meal without the hassle of cooking on busy days.
What can I substitute for Catalina French dressing?
If you don’t have Catalina French dressing, you can use any sweet vinaigrette or even a mixture of equal parts ketchup and vinegar. For a healthier option, consider a homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey for sweetness.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just keep the components separate until ready to eat, especially the lettuce, to prevent wilting. Portion the beef mixture in containers, and add fresh vegetables when serving for a quick and nutritious meal throughout the week.
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).