Seven-Layer Taco Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• Refried Beans or Ground Beef:
• 1 can (15 oz) of refried beans or 1 lb of ground beef, cooked and seasoned.
• Sour Cream Mixture:
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Toppings:
• 1 cup salsa (your choice of mild, medium, or hot)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives (canned)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
• For Serving:
• Tortilla chips

Directions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• If using ground beef, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, and additional spices if desired (like taco seasoning) to enhance flavor. Set aside to cool slightly.
• If using refried beans, open the can and set aside.

1. Make the Sour Cream Mixture:

• In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 tsp of ground cumin, 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well until smooth. This mixture adds a creamy, flavorful layer to your salad.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• Layer 1: Start by spreading the refried beans or the cooked ground beef evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish or a large glass serving dish. If using refried beans, you can warm them slightly for easier spreading.
• Layer 2: Carefully spoon the seasoned sour cream mixture over the beans or beef. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
• Layer 3: Pour the salsa over the sour cream layer, spreading it out to cover completely.
• Layer 4: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the salsa. The cheese adds a rich flavor and helps bind the layers.
• Layer 5: Next, add a layer of shredded lettuce. This provides a crunchy texture and freshness.
• Layer 6: Sprinkle diced tomatoes over the lettuce. If using canned tomatoes, ensure they are well-drained to prevent sogginess.
• Layer 7: Top with sliced black olives and chopped green onions, distributing them evenly for color and flavor.

1. Final Touches:

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• Just before serving, place tortilla chips around the salad or serve them on the side for dipping.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Use a large spoon to scoop out portions of the salad, ensuring you get all the layers. Serve with extra tortilla chips for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Tips:

• Variations: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like avocado, corn, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance, but avoid adding the tortilla chips until just before serving to keep them crunchy.
• Presentation: For a visually appealing presentation, consider using a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers.

Enjoy your delicious and colorful Seven-Layer Taco Salad! Perfect for gatherings or a tasty dinner option. ❤️🌮