Tortilla Soup Salad
A refreshing salad featuring shredded lettuce, carrots, jicama, and cilantro, dressed with a tangy jalapeno vinaigrette, perfect for light, flavorful summertime meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped jalapeno, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a small bowl.
- Set the dressing aside to let flavors meld.
- In a large bowl, toss shredded lettuce, carrots, and jicama (if using).
- Pour the jalapeno dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding crushed tortilla chips or corn tortillas tostada as a topping. If you're looking for a vegan option, ensure the olive oil is suitable and feel free to omit the jalapeno for a milder flavor. You can substitute jicama with radishes for a similar texture or use any seasonal greens you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This tortilla soup salad pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes, making it an excellent side for grilled chicken or shrimp. Consider serving it alongside a bowl of warm, spicy tortilla soup for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, add some black beans or quinoa to the salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. When reheating, avoid microwaving the salad; instead, gently toss it with a bit of fresh dressing to revitalize the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortilla Soup Salad contains roughly 273 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg per serving (29% 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 salad ingredients in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess. Store the components separately in the fridge to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of jalapeno?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute jalapeno with a diced bell pepper or omit it altogether. For a spicy kick without the heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this tortilla soup salad is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the ingredients, particularly the olive oil and any added products, are certified gluten-free. It's a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).