Summer is all about enjoying fresh, healthy and delicious food. And when it comes to a perfect summer dinner recipe, Taco Salad is always at the top of the list. This refreshing salad is not only easy to make but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy salsa dressing is the perfect way to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full. In this article, we will show you how to make the perfect Taco Salad, as well as tips on how to store and freeze it for later.
Why Taco Salad best for healthy summer dinner recipes ground beef?
Taco Salad is a perfect summer dinner recipe that includes ground beef as a key ingredient. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, which is important for maintaining healthy muscles and promoting red blood cell production. The ground beef in this recipe is seasoned with taco seasoning, which not only adds a delicious flavor but also provides additional nutrients such as garlic, chili powder, and cumin. The fresh vegetables in this salad provide essential vitamins and minerals, and the avocado and plantain chips provide healthy fats and fiber.
How to Make?
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 head of lettuce, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 plantain, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Be sure to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is cooked, add the taco seasoning and stir until well combined. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference.
- In a separate baking sheet, toss the sweet potato and plantain slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer so that they cook evenly. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- While the sweet potato and plantain slices are roasting, chop the lettuce and prepare the remaining toppings. You can slice the avocado and dice the tomato into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped lettuce with the salsa until well combined. This will serve as the base of the salad.
- To assemble the salad, start by placing the seasoned ground beef over the lettuce. Spread it out evenly so that it covers the lettuce.
- Next, add the sliced avocado and diced tomato on top of the beef. You can arrange them in a decorative pattern, or simply sprinkle them on top.
- Finally, add the roasted sweet potato and plantain slices to the side of the salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy Taco Salad!
By following these detailed instructions, you should be able to make a perfect Taco Salad every time. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasoning to your preference. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken or vegetarian meat crumbles to make this recipe suitable for your dietary preference.
- You can also add other fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, onions or corn to the salad to increase the nutritional value.
- You can customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of taco seasoning and salsa.
- You can also make your own homemade taco seasoning by mixing chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
FAQ’s
Can I make Taco Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned ground beef and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also chop the vegetables and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply assemble the salad and add the dressing.
Can I freeze Taco Salad?
It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the lettuce and vegetables may become wilted and lose their texture.
What other dressing can I use instead of salsa?
You can use other dressings such as ranch, Caesar, or vinaigrette dressing.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use any type of ground meat that you prefer. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great alternatives to ground beef.
Can I make this Taco Salad vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by replacing the ground beef with a plant-based protein source like tofu, tempeh, or veggie crumbles. You can also omit the cheese and sour cream and use vegan-friendly alternatives.
Can I make Taco Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the individual components separately and assembling the salad just before serving. Store the ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, and plantain chips in separate containers in the fridge until ready to use. You can also chop the lettuce and prepare the toppings ahead of time.
How can I adjust the spiciness of Taco Salad?
You can adjust the spiciness of this recipe by using more or less taco seasoning and salsa. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less taco seasoning and mild salsa. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can use more taco seasoning and spicy salsa.
Can I substitute the sweet potatoes and plantain chips with another side dish?
Yes, you can substitute the sweet potatoes and plantain chips with any side dish that you prefer. Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice are all great options.
Storage
To store the Taco Salad, simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for this recipe varies based on the serving size and the ingredients used. However, a typical serving of Taco Salad (including 1/4 lb. ground beef, 1 cup of lettuce, 1/4 avocado, 1/4 tomato, and 2 tablespoons of salsa) contains approximately:
- Calories: 333
- Fat: 21 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 782 mg
This salad is a great source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is also low in carbs and sugar, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Taco Salad is a delicious and healthy summer dinner recipe that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal that can be customized to suit their dietary preferences. With our helpful tips on how to store and freeze this salad, you can now enjoy Taco Salad anytime, anywhere. So, go ahead and try this recipe today and enjoy a healthy and delicious summer meal!
