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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. ❤️🌮
