SOUTHWEST SALAD

Southwest Salad is a vibrant, hearty dish packed with fresh vegetables, black beans, corn, and seasoned chicken, all topped with a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s bursting with bold flavors, thanks to a mix of spices and fresh herbs, making it a perfect option for a nutritious lunch or dinner. Serve it on its own or with tortilla chips for extra crunch!

Ingredients:

For the salad:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (for topping)

For the dressing:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  2. Prepare the dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Assemble the salad:
    • In a large salad bowl, layer the chopped mixed greens, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
  4. Top with chicken:
    • Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the salad. Add tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
  5. Drizzle with dressing:
    • Drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing and toss everything together to combine.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the Southwest Salad immediately and enjoy its bold, zesty flavors.

This Southwest Salad is a fresh, filling, and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion, with its delicious combination of textures and spices!

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