Introducing the ever-popular and nostalgically dubbed “Mexican Salad,” a delightful concoction that despite its name, doesn’t hail from south of the border, but rather from the cherished potluck parties of yesteryears, reminiscent of gatherings some 30 years ago, where it was faithfully brought by the wife of an engineer coworker, subsequently passed down through the ages to find its way into your culinary repertoire. Now, let’s dive into this simple yet tantalizing dish, perfect for those < 15-minute prep moments and a surefire hit at any potluck affair.
Mexican Salad
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Head lettuce |
| 1 | Onion |
| 1/2 | Sharp cheddar cheese |
| 1 | Tomato |
| 1 | Avocado |
| 1 | Lemon, juiced |
| 3 | Tablespoons olive oil |
| 1-2 | Jalapeños, diced (optional) |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 309.6
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8.2g
- Cholesterol: 29.8mg
- Sodium: 424.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 12.6g
- Fiber: 3.3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 9g
Instructions:
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Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the head of lettuce. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
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Peel and thinly slice the onion, then add it to the bowl with the lettuce.
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Next, grate the sharp cheddar cheese over the salad. The cheesy goodness adds a savory depth to the dish.
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Dice the tomato and avocado into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are ripe and flavorful. Add them to the bowl.
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If you’re feeling adventurous and crave a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the mix. They’ll provide a spicy kick that complements the other flavors beautifully.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This simple dressing adds brightness and tang to the salad.
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Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
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Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is crucial as it ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Once the salad is thoroughly mixed, it’s ready to serve. This Mexican Salad is best enjoyed immediately, ensuring the crispness of the lettuce and the freshness of the other ingredients are preserved.
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Serve this vibrant and flavorful salad as a side dish at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light and satisfying meal on its own.
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For an extra touch of authenticity, consider garnishing the salad with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
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Sit back, relax, and savor the delicious flavors of this Mexican-inspired salad, a timeless classic that continues to delight taste buds with its simplicity and charm. 🥗✨
