Tostada Salad

Authentic Tostada Salad Recipe from Mexico with Beef and Beans

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tostada salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of a traditional taco salad with the crunch of corn chips. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends and family.

History

Tostada salad is a popular Mexican-inspired dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the United States, where it was created as a way to enjoy the flavors of a taco in a more convenient and portable form. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and toppings, making it a versatile and customizable dish.

Ingredients

1 head of lettuce
2 carrots, grated
0.25 head of red cabbage
0.5 red onion
3 tomatoes
2 cups of grated cheddar cheese
0.5 bag of corn chips
1 (8 oz (227 g)) bottle of 1000 island salad dressing

Meat sauce

1.5 lb (680 g) of ground beef, browned
1 (4 oz (113 g)) package of taco seasoning
2 cups of water
1 large can of kidney beans
1 can of refried beans (optional)

How to prepare

Combine the first 8 ingredients in a large bowl or clean kitchen sink.
Next, add the meat sauce and mix well.
Serve the dish while it's still warm.

Variations

Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
Add black beans or pinto beans for additional protein and fiber.
Top the salad with crushed tortilla chips or tortilla strips for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding the taco seasoning and water to ensure that it is cooked through.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings, such as avocado, black olives, or jalapenos.

- To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and use additional beans or tofu as a protein substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this tostada salad with a side of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to drain and rinse the kidney beans before adding them to the meat sauce to remove excess sodium.

- Use a large mixing bowl or clean kitchen sink to combine the ingredients for easy mixing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use your favorite type of lettuce, such as romaine or iceberg, in place of the head of lettuce.

- Substitute shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for the cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the salad.

- Keep the corn chips separate until ready to serve to prevent them from getting soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the tostada salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish the salad with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this tostada salad with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.

- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or grilled vegetables for a complete and balanced dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, simply microwave the salad until warmed through, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing leftover meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This tostada salad recipe contains approximately 500 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This tostada salad recipe contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This tostada salad recipe contains approximately 25 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This tostada salad recipe contains approximately 30 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This tostada salad recipe is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This tostada salad recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and may contain gluten (corn chips). Please check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are safe for your dietary needs.

Summary

This tostada salad recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Tostada salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends and family. This recipe is versatile and customizable, making it easy to adapt to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the delicious flavors of a traditional taco salad with the added crunch of corn chips in this delicious and nutritious dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Tostada Salad. It was a hot summer day, and my family had decided to have a picnic in the park. My cousin Maria had brought along a huge bowl of Tostada Salad that she had made herself. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to learn how to make it.

Maria had learned the recipe from her mother, who had learned it from her grandmother. It was a family recipe that had been passed down through the generations, and I was determined to become a part of that tradition. I begged Maria to teach me how to make it, and she agreed.

We spent the afternoon in the park, chopping vegetables, frying tortillas, and mixing up the delicious dressing. Maria showed me how to layer the ingredients in a bowl, starting with the crispy tortilla chips on the bottom, followed by the beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and avocado. Finally, she drizzled the dressing over the top and tossed everything together until it was well mixed.

As we sat down to eat our Tostada Salad, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The combination of flavors and textures was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Tostada Salad countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. Each time I make it, I think of that hot summer day in the park with Maria, learning the recipe that has become such a beloved part of my culinary repertoire.

I have also added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating different ingredients and flavors to make it my own. Sometimes I add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or swap out the traditional black beans for pinto or kidney beans. No matter how I customize it, the basic elements of the Tostada Salad remain the same.

As I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate the importance of passing down recipes like this one to future generations. Cooking is not just about nourishing our bodies, but also about preserving our culture and heritage. I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will learn to make Tostada Salad from me, just as I learned from Maria.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to know that some things remain constant. The simple pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones, made from a recipe that has stood the test of time, is a tradition that I will always cherish.

So the next time you are looking for a delicious and satisfying meal to share with your family and friends, consider making Tostada Salad. It is a recipe that has brought joy and connection to my own life, and I hope it will do the same for you. Bon appétit!