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Taco salad recipe with homemade catalina dressing 2026 03 26 211022 683x1024

Taco Salad

A vibrant and delicious dish that combines the flavors of traditional tacos with fresh greens, perfect for quick meals or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 pint canned black beans (not drained)
  • 3 tsp taco seasoning
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped or iceberg lettuce
  • 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 pint canned salsa
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil or any neutral flavored oil
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar
  • 1/2 cup organic cane sugar

Optional Toppings

  • cooked rice
  • avocados
  • green bell peppers
  • black olives
  • guacamole

Instructions
 

Prepare the Catalina Dressing

  • Blend all the ingredients (oil, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and sugar) with an immersion blender until emulsified and smooth. Keep refrigerated.

Cook the Beef

  • In an 11-inch non-stick skillet, add 1/2 cup water and the ground beef. Cook over medium-high heat until the liquid evaporates.
  • Use a meat chopper to break the beef into crumbles until it is no longer pink.
  • Once the liquid has evaporated and the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), add the taco seasoning and beans. Heat thoroughly until hot and bubbly.

Assemble Salads

  • Arrange all salad toppings on plates or in bowls.
  • Top each plate with lettuce, the seasoned beef mixture, tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and drizzle with Catalina dressing.

Notes

Use a variety of toppings for a colorful salad. For added crunch, consider adding tortilla chips on top. You can prepare the dressing ahead of time to save on prep when you’re ready to eat!
Keyword Catalina dressing, Customizable Salad, Healthy Meal, Quick Dinner, Taco Salad