Mexican Seven Layer Salad: A Vibrant and Flavorful Dish
When it comes to summer gatherings, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight dinner, the Mexican Seven Layer Salad emerges as a colorful and hearty dish that is sure to impress. This recipe not only pairs beautifully with traditional Mexican entrees like enchiladas, but it also shines as a standalone salad, packed with fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and a delightful crunch from tortilla chips. The best part? You can prepare this salad ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you valuable time on the day of your event. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a chill time of 45 minutes, this salad is as convenient as it is delicious.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (chill time)
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Category: Cheese
- Servings: 10
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Head of lettuce |
| 1/4 | Red cabbage |
| 3 | Carrots |
| 1-2 | Tomatoes |
| 2 | Avocados |
| 1 | Fresh lemon juice |
| 1 | Green onion |
| 1 | Can of black beans |
| 1 | Bag of tortilla chips |
| 1 | Cup of shredded cheddar cheese |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 596.6 |
| Total Fat | 46 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 36.4 mg |
| Sodium | 762.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.6 g |
| Sugars | 4.4 g |
| Protein | 12.3 g |
| Rating | 4.5/5 (4 reviews) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: Begin by thoroughly chopping the head of lettuce, then combine it in a large mixing bowl with the finely grated red cabbage and shredded carrots. Toss them together gently to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients.
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Layer the Salad: Once the base is ready, carefully spread this vibrant mixture into the bottom of a deep glass salad bowl. The transparent nature of the bowl will beautifully showcase the colorful layers to come.
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Toss the Avocado: Take the ripe avocados, peel them, and slice them into thin pieces. To keep the avocados fresh and prevent them from browning, toss them with the fresh lemon juice. This simple step not only enhances the flavor but also maintains the salad’s visual appeal.
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Create the Layers: On top of the lettuce mixture, evenly layer the diced tomatoes, followed by the sliced avocado. Continue layering with chopped green onion, a generous layer of black beans, and finally, a crunchy layer of tortilla chips.
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Dress the Salad: Pour your choice of dressing over the layered salad. For a classic taste, a ranch dressing works beautifully, but if you’re looking for a kick, consider mixing taco seasoning into the ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
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Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the top of your salad with shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to nestle into the layers below. This adds a creamy texture and a rich flavor that ties the whole salad together.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 45 minutes before serving. This chill time allows all the flavors to meld, creating a delightful taste experience. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to mix the layers slightly, and enjoy!
Conclusion
The Mexican Seven Layer Salad is a wonderfully adaptable dish that can serve as a delightful addition to any meal or a centerpiece at your next gathering. Its fresh ingredients and vibrant layers not only please the palate but also the eyes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this easy-to-follow recipe will allow you to create a dish that is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad is a must-try that promises to leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your culinary journey with this colorful and delicious salad!
