Spanish Peanut Salad
A vibrant Spanish-inspired peanut salad combining savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, crunchy corn chips, and salted Spanish peanuts for a flavorful, hearty dish suitable for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the ground beef.
- Chop purple onion and green pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, chopped onion, green pepper, chili powder, and picante sauce.
- Mix well and serve immediately over shredded lettuce.
- Top with chopped tomatoes, grated Cheddar cheese, corn chips, and salted Spanish peanuts.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a dash of cumin or garlic powder to the beef mixture. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use fresh vegetables like diced cucumbers or radishes for added crunch. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can save you preparation time.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Peanut Salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a fun party dish. Serve it with a side of tortilla chips or a refreshing fruit salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Healthy Casserole for a heartier option. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Serve over fresh lettuce, as reheated lettuce tends to wilt. Keep toppings separate until ready to serve for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Peanut Salad contains roughly 1641 calories, with 64g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (128% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), and calcium (88% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2096mg per serving (91% 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?
While you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the lettuce and toppings. You can store the beef in the refrigerator and combine it with the lettuce and toppings when ready to eat.
What can I use instead of picante sauce?
If you don't have picante sauce, salsa or taco sauce can be great alternatives. For a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to your preferred sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Is this salad suitable for kids?
Yes, this salad is a great option for kids! The flavors are mild, and the ingredients can be customized to suit their tastes. You can reduce the chili powder for less spice and let them choose their favorite toppings, making it a fun and interactive meal.
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).