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Spicy Southwest Salad (with Spicy Ranch Dressing)

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A vibrant and flavorful salad with a spicy ranch dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables, black beans, sweet corn, and a zesty dressing, it’s a satisfying meal with a kick of heat.

Ingredients

1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

1 avocado, sliced

For the Spicy Ranch Dressing:

1/2 cup ranch dressing

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, black beans, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients together.
  2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices on top of the salad.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Drizzle the spicy ranch dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side for guests to add as desired. Toss the salad to combine and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
  • Substitute ranch dressing with a plant-based alternative for a vegan option.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the dressing to control heat level.
  • Try adding roasted bell peppers, cucumber, or spinach for more variety.
  • Store salad components separately if leftovers remain to prevent wilting or browning of lettuce and avocado.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/spicy-southwest-salad-with-spicy-ranch-dressing/