Wellness Wednesday: Flavor-Packed Mexican Salad Recipe

Looking for a nutritious, vibrant, and satisfying salad to add to your wellness journey? This Mexican Salad is packed with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a deliciously creamy dressing—perfect for a wholesome meal or side dish!

Ingredients for the Salad

Fresh Veggies:

  • 8-10 cups Romaine lettuce (or mix with iceberg lettuce/spring mix)
  • 2 ears sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen; char for extra flavor!)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 English cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced (soak in ice water for a milder taste)
  • 1 avocado, diced (choose ripe but firm avocados)

Tasty Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds), roasted with chili powder and salt
  • 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)

Chipotle Chicken (Optional Protein Boost)

Seasoning Blend:

  • 1 tbsp chipotle powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

  1. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness.
  2. Mix seasonings with olive oil and lime juice; rub onto chicken.
  3. Let marinate for 30 minutes (or refrigerate up to 8 hours).
  4. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through.

How to Char Corn

On the Grill:

  1. Brush corn with olive oil, season with salt & pepper.
  2. Grill over high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning until lightly charred.

In a Skillet:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat.
  2. Add corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until charred (about 5 minutes).

Zesty Cilantro Lime Dressing

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tomatillos, husked and chopped
  • 1-2 jalapeños, seeded (or keep seeds for spice!)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp dry ranch seasoning (or DIY with parsley, dill, onion powder, salt, and pepper)

Instructions:

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
  2. Chill before serving for best flavor.

How to Assemble the Salad:

  1. Prepare Dressing: Blend and chill for a refreshing taste.
  2. Roast Pepitas & Tortilla Strips: Toss with oil and bake at 425°F for 12-16 minutes.
  3. Char Corn: Grill or sauté to bring out smoky sweetness.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Toss lettuce, corn, black beans, tomatoes, cucumber, onions, cheese, and pepitas.
  5. Dress & Garnish: Drizzle with dressing and top with crispy tortilla strips!

This Mexican Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal that will keep you feeling energized and satisfied. Enjoy your Wellness Wednesday with every fresh and flavorful bite!