Craving a flavorful and refreshing dish that combines bold southwestern flavors with a crisp and healthy twist? Look no further than the tantalizing southwest salad! This vibrant salad is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring a medley of fresh greens, succulent grilled chicken or tofu, roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a tangy, zesty dressing. Topped with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese, this salad is a delightful journey through the vibrant flavors of the southwest. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the perfect recipe for a southwest salad that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Here are our top 20 tried and tested recipes!
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD
My husband loves salads, and this flavorful chicken recipe is easy, nutritious and very tasty. Serve it over greens, tucked in a pita or rolled up in a tortilla. -Sara Hobbs, West Tawakoni, Texas
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 30m
Yield 6 cups.
Number Of Ingredients 19
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients; pour over chicken mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving. Serve as desired., Salads: Top salad greens with chicken salad; sprinkle with almonds., Pitas: Line pita halves with lettuce leaves; fill with chicken salad., Wraps: Place chicken salad off-center on tortillas; top with avocado. Roll up.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 166 calories, Fat 7g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 42mg cholesterol, Sodium 316mg sodium, Carbohydrate 10g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
SOUTHWEST SALAD
Something I just threw together one night but ended up being the best salad I've ever made--corn, cheese, tomatoes and tortilla chips complimented by ranch dressing with a kick.
Provided by GreenEyedLS
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 10m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Mix all salad ingredients together in large serving bowl.
- Mix all dressing ingredients together in a cup or small bowl.
- Toss with dressing or serve on the side.
- If preparing ahead of time, wait to add chips so they stay crisp.
SOUTHWEST LAYERED SALAD
This salad is very pretty when served in a large bowl, and is bursting with lots of fresh flavors. You can spice it up by substituting jalapeno peppers for the chile peppers. The dressing is fabulous for all types of salads.
Provided by Anne Z.
Categories Salad Vegetable Salad Recipes
Time 25m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Mix dressing mix, buttermilk, yogurt, and taco seasoning mix together in a mixing bowl.
- Line a large serving bowl with the torn lettuce.
- Mix roasted peppers, black beans, corn, onion, and green chiles together in a bowl. Spread mixture over the lettuce. Top with tomatoes; sprinkle with Cheddar cheese. Arrange avocado slices in an overlapping circle. Garnish with cilantro. Serve with dressing on the side.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 255.3 calories, Carbohydrate 33.2 g, Cholesterol 10.9 mg, Fat 9.1 g, Fiber 8.4 g, Protein 11.1 g, SaturatedFat 2.9 g, Sodium 1213.2 mg, Sugar 8.3 g
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN AND CORN BREAD SALAD
This is a meal all by itself! It goes together in a snap using leftover cornbread and chicken.
Provided by Shirley
Categories Salad
Time 3h30m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Mix ranch dressing and salsa together in a small bowl.
- Layer 1/2 of the corn bread crumbles, pinto beans, corn, green chile peppers, and olives in a large bowl; cover with 1/2 of the dressing mixture. Layer bell pepper, chicken, bacon, onion, and tomatoes over dressing. Top with remaining corn bread crumbles and dressing mixture. Sprinkle Cheddar cheese on top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until flavors combine, 3 to 4 hours.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 517.4 calories, Carbohydrate 44.3 g, Cholesterol 46.9 mg, Fat 32.4 g, Fiber 7.4 g, Protein 13.3 g, SaturatedFat 7.6 g, Sodium 1588.9 mg, Sugar 8.3 g
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD WITH RICE, CORN, AND CHILIES
Categories Salad Chicken Rice Corn Hot Pepper Summer Bon Appétit
Yield Makes 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Whisk first 5 ingredients and 1/2 cup cilantro in small bowl. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper. Place chicken, corn, chilies and bell peppers on rimmed baking sheet. Brush 1/2 cup dressing over both sides of chicken and vegetables. Let stand 30 minutes.
- Bring 3 1/2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt to boil in heavy large saucepan. Mix in rice. Cover, reduce heat to low and cook until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Keep pan covered and let rice stand 5 minutes. Transfer rice to large bowl; fluff with fork. Pour 1/2 cup dressing over hot rice and toss; let cool.
- Prepare barbecue (medium heat). Grill chicken and vegetables until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender and slightly charred, about 6 minutes per side. Cut chicken, peppers and chilies into strips. Cut corn off cobs. Toss chicken and vegetables in medium bowl with enough dressing to coat; add to rice and toss again. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Divide salad among 6 plates. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cilantro and serve.
- *Chipotle chilies canned in a spicy tomato sauce, sometimes called adobo, are available at Latin American markets, specialty foods stores and some supermarkets.
- **Fresh green chilies, often called pasillas; available at Latin American markets and some supermarkets.
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD I
This is a highly seasoned salad that is a nice change from the typical 'taco' version. Even my kids and their friends love it!
Provided by Sandy
Categories Salad
Time 15m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a covered jar, mix the lime juice, olive oil, salt, garlic, cilantro, chili powder, and cumin. Cover, and shake until well blended.
- Place the lettuce in a large bowl. Toss with the chicken, black beans, onion, and tomato. Just before serving, toss with the dressing mixture and Parmesan cheese. Serve with tortilla chips, either crushed over the top of the salad, or on the side.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 408.2 calories, Carbohydrate 23.2 g, Cholesterol 62.3 mg, Fat 23.7 g, Fiber 2.9 g, Protein 26.5 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, Sodium 397.5 mg, Sugar 2.1 g
COPYCAT CHICK-FIL-A SPICY SOUTHWEST SALAD
Very likely the most popular salad in fast food history, this salad is even better at home. Chef, meet your new dinner party staple.
Provided by EmKenBken
Categories < 30 Mins
Time 30m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 23
Steps:
- Brine:.
- In a medium bowl whisk together ingredients for brine.
- Add chicken, making sure to coat evenly. Allow chicken to marinate for 20 minutes. Remove chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
- Heat grill to high, oil lightly. Grill chicken turning once until grill marks have appeared and chicken is opaque throughout, about 3 to 4 minutes a side. Remove chicken to a cutting board and slice thinly across the grain.
- Salad: Toss together salad ingredients. Top with sliced chicken and favorite dressing.
SOUTHWEST RICE AND CORN SALAD WITH LEMON DRESSING
Provided by Bon Appétit Test Kitchen
Categories Side Picnic Vegetarian Quick & Easy High Fiber Lemon Avocado Corn Bell Pepper Healthy Low Cholesterol Potluck Bon Appétit Sugar Conscious Vegan Pescatarian Dairy Free Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield 8 side-dish servings
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cook rice until just tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Drain and rinse in cold water. Drain again.
- Meanwhile, whisk lemon juice and 3 tablespoons oil in small bowl. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add corn, poblanos, yellow bell pepper, and zucchini. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sauté until vegetables are just tender, 6 to 7 minutes; scrape into large bowl. Add rice, avocado, green onions, cilantro, and dressing; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
SPEEDY SOUTHWEST SALAD
I used leftover corn and black beans I had in the fridge to throw together this simple layered salad. It's a big time-saver because it requires little chopping and features a quick dressing. The crunchy combination is always in demand at our house. -Kara Ann Goff, Loveland, Colorado
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 10m
Yield 6 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Place the greens in a large salad bowl. Top with corn and beans. , In a small bowl, combine the salad dressing and picante sauce; spoon over vegetables; toss to coat. Sprinkle with tortilla chips, cheese and tomatoes. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 306 calories, Fat 16g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 13mg cholesterol, Sodium 709mg sodium, Carbohydrate 29g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 6g fiber), Protein 8g protein.
SOUTHWEST LAYERED CORNBREAD SALAD
With no last-minute assembly needed, this layered salad is ready for a spot on the party buffet. -Rod & Sue Brusius, Omro, Wisconsin
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 35m
Yield 12 servings (3/4 cup each).
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Prepare and bake cornbread according to package directions. Cool completely on a wire rack. Break into crumbles., In a 3-qt. bowl, layer half of each of the following: cornbread, beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, dressing and cheese. Repeat layers. Refrigerate, covered, until serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 372 calories, Fat 22g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 38mg cholesterol, Sodium 826mg sodium, Carbohydrate 31g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 11g protein.
SOUTHWEST SHREDDED PORK SALAD
This knockout shredded pork makes a healthy, delicious and hearty salad with black beans, corn, cotija cheese and plenty of fresh greens. -Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 6h20m
Yield 12 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Place pork in a 5- or 6-qt. slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix cider, green chiles, garlic, salt, pepper sauce, chili powder, pepper, cumin and oregano; pour over pork. Cook, covered, on low 6-8 hours or until meat is tender., Remove roast from slow cooker; discard cooking juices. Shred pork with 2 forks. Arrange salad greens on a large serving platter. Top with pork, black beans, tomatoes, onion, corn and cheese. Serve with salad dressing. Freeze option: Place shredded pork in a freezer container; top with cooking juices. Cool and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 233 calories, Fat 8g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 67mg cholesterol, Sodium 321mg sodium, Carbohydrate 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
SOUTHWEST RICE SALAD
This healthy salad has lots of taste and eye appeal. Add more or less jalapenos to suit your own heat preference. Most people like it this way and I serve some hot sauce on the side for the heat lovers.
Provided by Geema
Categories Rice
Time 35m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the rice, beans, corn and onions.
- Toss to mix.
- In a food processor, blend remaining ingredients, except the cilantro and tomatoes, until the peppers are finely minced.
- Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and mix well.
- Garnish with the cilantro and chopped tomatoes.
- This salad can be made 1-2 days in advance and served either cold or room temperature.
SOUTHWEST LAYERED CHICKEN SALAD
Looking for an easy salad to serve a crowd? Try this colorful combo that includes corn with a creamy dressing that gets its zip from Old El Paso® taco seasoning.
Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Entree
Time 35m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In medium bowl, mix dressing ingredients until well blended.
- In 4-quart glass serving bowl, layer lettuce, jicama, chicken, corn and bell peppers. Just before serving, top salad with avocados. Serve with dressing.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 280, Carbohydrate 13 g, Cholesterol 45 mg, Fat 3, Fiber 4 g, Protein 12 g, SaturatedFat 4 1/2 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 430 mg, Sugar 3 g, TransFat 0 g
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN & RICE SALAD
Fun and different, this summery salad has a subtle smoky flavor that really says "Southwest." The grilled corn adds an especially nice touch.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 40m
Yield 10 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Remove and discard corn husks and silk. Brush 1 tablespoon oil over ears of corn. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Cut corn from cobs. , In a large bowl, combine the chicken, red pepper, jalapenos, cilantro and corn. , In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper and remaining oil; pour over chicken mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. , Cook rice according to package directions; cool. Just before serving, stir rice and avocados into salad.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 238 calories, Fat 12g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 22mg cholesterol, Sodium 204mg sodium, Carbohydrate 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 11g protein.
SOUTHWEST CORNBREAD SALAD
Here's an absolute favorite at potlucks and barbecues. The idea came to me as I was trying to think of a replacement for the typical taco salad. The cornbread replaces the tortilla chips. Stefanie Foster, Wasilla, Alaska
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 50m
Yield 18 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, eggs, milk and chiles until blended. Pour into a greased 13x9-in. baking pan. Bake at 400° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack., In a large bowl, combine the beans, corn, tomatoes, green pepper, onion and 2 cups cheese. In a small bowl, whisk the water, vinegar, oil and taco seasoning. Pour over bean mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours., Cut cornbread into 1-in. cubes. In a large serving bowl, layer the cornbread, bean mixture and remaining cheese. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 293 calories, Fat 13g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 50mg cholesterol, Sodium 670mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (8g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 10g protein.
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD
Steps:
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder and cumin together.
- In a separate bowl, combine chicken, tomatoes, pepper, onions, corn, and black beans.
- Add salt and pepper, to taste.
- Add wet mixture and mix until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour and serve cold.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Nutrition Facts : Servingsize 1 serving, Calories 5462 kcal, Fat 45 g, SaturatedFat 7 g, Cholesterol 25 mg, Sodium 13013 mg, Carbohydrate 1031 g, Sugar 210 g, Protein 304 mg
CRISPY SOUTHWEST SALAD
This layered salad in a jar is a hearty meal with cubed ham, crumbled bacon, salad greens, corn, roasted peppers, shredded cheese, tomatoes and tortilla strips.
Provided by Farmland
Categories Salad Beef and Pork Salad Recipes Ham Salad Recipes
Time 25m
Yield 2
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cook bacon in skillet then crumble on paper towel.
- Heat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Spread Farmland Cubed Ham, red peppers and corn on parchment-lined baking tray.
- Bake for 10 minutes, tossing half way through.
- Layer roasted corn in the bottom of the mason jar.
- Top corn layer with halved cherry tomatoes.
- Layer cubed ham over tomatoes. Add roasted red peppers, shredded cheese, and mixed greens.
- Top with chopped Farmland Thick Cut Bacon and crispy tortilla strips.
- Pair with your favorite dressing or salsa.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 455.4 calories, Carbohydrate 25 g, Cholesterol 42.6 mg, Fat 24.9 g, Fiber 4.1 g, Protein 34.4 g, SaturatedFat 10.4 g, Sodium 2069.4 mg, Sugar 3.8 g
SOUTHWEST SALAD TACO CUPS
Petite, homemade taco cups make crispy bowls for this easy chicken taco salad.
Provided by Dole
Categories Trusted Brands: Recipes and Tips Dole
Time 30m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Warm tortillas so they are pliable. Lightly spray six, 8-ounce custard cups with nonstick cooking spray and gently press tortilla into each cup. Bake 10 minutes or until brown and crisp. Carefully remove tortillas from cups and cool on rack. Repeat for remaining tortillas.
- Stir together Taco Ranch Dressing and salsa. Moisten chicken with 1 tablespoon prepared taco dressing mixture. Combine cheeses in small bowl, set aside. Coarsely chop salad blend and combine with dressing mixture. Toss with cheeses and chicken.
- Fill each tortilla cup with heaping 1/3 cup salad mixture. Garnish with black olives, tortilla strips and one small dollop sour-cream.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 152.4 calories, Carbohydrate 16.1 g, Cholesterol 19.6 mg, Fat 6.9 g, Fiber 2.6 g, Protein 7.4 g, SaturatedFat 2.4 g, Sodium 312.5 mg, Sugar 0.9 g
SOUTHWEST CORN SALAD
I first saw this recipe in our Omaha, Nebraska paper a few years ago," relates Joanna Lonnecker. "It's ideal for family get-togethers of all kinds. Hearty enough to serve during winter, this salad always brings back memories of summer picnics!"
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 10m
Yield 9 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the oil, vinegar, sugar, chili powder, salt and cumin; shake well. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until chilled.
Nutrition Facts :
SOUTHWEST SALAD WITH FRESH LIME CILANTRO DRESSING
I have been preparing this salad for the past 6 or 7 years and I still love it just as much as the first time I made it. These ingredients just come together so beautifully in this dish you'll be amazed at the reactions each time you serve it. And unlike many salads, it is even great the next day as leftovers!
Provided by Autism Mommy
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 20m
Yield 10 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Prepare dressing first by combining in food processor or blender fresh cilantro, lime juice, sour cream, sugar, salt and pepper.
- Then slowly drizzle in oil until fully combined.
- Pour dressing into container and chill in fridge for several hours for flavors to meld.
- In large glass/acrylic bowl layer lettuce, then tomatoes, onion, black bean, cheese, and corn.
- (At this point the salad can wait for up to 8 hours before serving if you wish to be a step ahead later on.).
- Before serving sprinkle broken chips over corn layer. Then pour dressing over chips and toss completely.
- Enjoy!
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will make all the difference in the flavor of your salad.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients. There are endless possibilities for what you can put in a southwest salad. Get creative and have fun!
- Make sure to chop your vegetables evenly. This will help them cook evenly and make your salad look more appealing.
- Don't overcook your vegetables. They should still have a bit of a crunch to them.
- Use a light dressing. You don't want to overpower the flavors of the vegetables.
- Serve your salad immediately. This is when it will be at its best.
Conclusion:
Southwest salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner, southwest salad is a great option. So next time you are looking for a healthy and flavorful meal, give southwest salad a try!
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