Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 2 teaspoons oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water
For the Salad
- 3 romaine hearts, chopped (~8 cups)
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup fire roasted corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 1/2 cups Nacho Doritos, broken (~3 ounces)
- 3/4 cup Catalina dressing
Instructions
- Prepare Onions: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they become translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Cook Ground Beef: Push the onions to the edge of the pan and increase heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and let it sear without stirring for 2-3 minutes. Flip the meat and sear for another 2 minutes. Then, break the meat apart using a meat chopper or wooden spoon and allow it to sear as you continue to chop and brown it evenly. Once fully browned, drain the grease by transferring the meat and onions into a large mesh sieve.
- Simmer with Seasoning: Return the meat and onions to the pan; add water and taco seasoning. Stir to combine, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly in a bowl.
- Assemble Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, kidney beans, shredded cheddar cheese, fire roasted corn, grape tomatoes, and sliced black olives. Toss gently to mix all ingredients well.
- Add Final Ingredients and Serve: Just before serving, add the broken Nacho Doritos, cooled taco meat mixture, diced avocado, and Catalina dressing to the salad bowl. Toss everything until the salad is evenly coated with dressing and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, add the Doritos and dressing just before serving to maintain crunchiness.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Fire roasted corn adds a smoky flavor, but regular corn works well too.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your spice preference.
- If avocado is not preferred, consider adding sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American