Tassel Estate Taco Salad

Tassel Estate Taco Salad Recipe - Ground Beef, Kidney Beans, Tomatoes

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tassel Estate Taco Salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, lettuce, olives, avocado, cheddar cheese, and crunchy taco chips, all tossed in a tangy catalina dressing. It's a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a family favorite.

History

The origins of the Taco Salad are a bit murky, but it is believed to have been created in the United States in the 1960s. It was a popular dish at Mexican-American restaurants and quickly became a staple in households across the country. The Tassel Estate Taco Salad puts a unique twist on the classic recipe, adding in kidney beans and avocado for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
1 white onion
15 oz (425 g) can kidney beans
0.25 tsp salt
4 tomatoes, chopped
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1 can sliced olives
1 large avocado
4 oz (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 small bag nacho cheese taco chips, crushed
8 oz (227 g) bottle catalina dressing

How to prepare

In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onions. Drain off the fat and add the kidney beans along with their juice and some salt.
Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, then drain.
Once the meat and bean mixture has cooled, add it to the lettuce mixture along with the dressing and cheese.
Just before serving, add the avocado and chips, and mix well.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ground beef and add in extra beans or tofu.
Add in some diced bell peppers or corn for extra crunch and flavor.
Swap out the catalina dressing for ranch or salsa for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain off the fat after browning the ground beef to keep the salad from becoming too greasy.

- You can customize this recipe by adding in your favorite toppings, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or jalapenos.

- For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef.

- Make sure to crush the taco chips just before serving to keep them nice and crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tassel Estate Taco Salad with a side of sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef and onions adds depth of flavor to the salad.

- Simmering the meat and bean mixture helps to meld the flavors together.

- Mixing in the avocado and chips just before serving keeps them from getting soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of the ground beef.

- Black beans or pinto beans can be used instead of kidney beans.

- Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat and bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just add in the avocado and chips right before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Tassel Estate Taco Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with extra cheese and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. You can also serve it in taco shells or on a bed of tortilla chips for a fun twist.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a variety of beverages, including beer, margaritas, or a crisp white wine. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of lemonade or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Tassel Estate Taco Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad until warmed through, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 7g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 35%

- Vitamin C: 25%

- Calcium: 20%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheddar cheese)

- Contains gluten (taco chips)

Summary

The Tassel Estate Taco Salad is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron. However, it is important to note that this recipe does contain dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

The Tassel Estate Taco Salad is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. With a mix of ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, lettuce, olives, avocado, cheddar cheese, and crunchy taco chips, all tossed in a tangy catalina dressing, this salad is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite toppings for a delicious and nutritious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a gathering at the Tassel Estate. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and the smell of grilled meat filled the air.

As I made my way to the backyard, where the party was in full swing, I spotted a large table covered in a colorful array of dishes. There were grilled vegetables, juicy burgers, and a wide assortment of salads. But one dish in particular caught my eye - a vibrant and enticing taco salad.

I was immediately drawn to the bright colors and fresh ingredients. The salad was a beautiful mix of crispy lettuce, tangy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips. The flavors were bold and refreshing, and I couldn't wait to take a bite.

I approached the host of the party, a kind and gracious woman named Mrs. Tassel, and asked her about the recipe for the taco salad. She smiled warmly and told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She explained that the key to the salad was in the dressing - a zesty blend of lime juice, cumin, and garlic that brought all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.

Mrs. Tassel graciously offered to show me how to make the salad, and I eagerly accepted. We made our way to the kitchen, where she guided me through each step of the recipe. She showed me how to chop the vegetables, how to mix the dressing, and how to assemble the salad in a beautiful and appetizing way.

As we worked together, Mrs. Tassel shared stories of her own grandmother, who had first created the recipe many years ago. She told me about the family gatherings and celebrations where the taco salad had always been a favorite dish. She spoke with love and pride about her heritage and the culinary traditions that had been passed down through the generations.

By the time we had finished making the salad, I felt like I had been welcomed into the Tassel family. Mrs. Tassel had taught me not just a recipe, but a piece of her family history. I could feel the love and care that had gone into creating this dish, and I knew that I would carry that with me every time I made it in the future.

As we sat down to enjoy the taco salad with the rest of the guests, I felt a sense of gratitude and connection. I was grateful for the opportunity to learn from Mrs. Tassel, and I felt connected to her and her family through the shared experience of making and enjoying this delicious dish.

Since that day, the Tassel Estate Taco Salad has become a staple in my own recipe collection. I have made it for countless gatherings and celebrations, always thinking of Mrs. Tassel and her family as I prepare it. The salad never fails to impress, and I always receive compliments and requests for the recipe.

I am grateful for the day that I first saw the Tassel Estate Taco Salad, and for the opportunity to learn how to make it from Mrs. Tassel herself. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, and one that I will continue to make and share with loved ones for years to come.