Zippy Taco Salad

Mexican Ground Beef and Kidney Bean Picante Salad with Velveeta and Tortilla Chips

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Zippy Taco Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. This recipe combines the flavors of traditional tacos with the crunch of tortilla chips and the freshness of lettuce and tomatoes.

History

Taco salad has been a popular dish in the United States since the 1960s, when it first appeared on the menu of Mexican-inspired restaurants. Over the years, different variations of the recipe have emerged, with some including ingredients like beans, cheese, and salsa. The Zippy Taco Salad recipe adds a unique twist with the addition of picante sauce and cheese spread.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, drained
0.5 cup picante sauce
0.5 lb (227 g) velveeta pasteurized process cheese spread, cubed
tortilla chips
3 cups shredded lettuce
3 cups chopped tomatoes

How to prepare

Brown the meat and drain it.
Stir in the beans and sauce.
Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the cheese spread and stir until melted.
For each serving, top the chips with the meat mixture, lettuce, and tomato.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
Add black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber.
Top the salad with sliced avocado or olives for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the ground beef after browning it to remove excess fat.

- Simmering the meat mixture with the beans and sauce helps to blend the flavors together.

- Stirring in the cheese spread at the end adds a creamy and cheesy texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Zippy Taco Salad with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat adds flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the meat mixture helps to blend the flavors together.

- Melting the cheese spread adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use shredded cheddar cheese instead of cheese spread.

- Use salsa instead of picante sauce.

- Use corn chips instead of tortilla chips.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and assemble the salad.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Zippy Taco Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for a fun and festive presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Zippy Taco Salad with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zippy Taco Salad contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zippy Taco Salad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Zippy Taco Salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Zippy Taco Salad contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Zippy Taco Salad is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may contain gluten (tortilla chips).

Summary

Zippy Taco Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Zippy Taco Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, this recipe is a balanced and nutritious choice for any occasion. Enjoy the zesty flavors of this delicious taco salad!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of spices and fresh vegetables. Martha was busy chopping tomatoes and onions, her hands moving with practiced ease.

"Hello, dear," Martha said with a smile. "I'm making my famous Zippy Taco Salad for dinner tonight. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly nodded, excited to learn a new recipe from my friend. As we worked together to prepare the salad, Martha shared the story of how she came to discover this delicious dish.

"It all started many years ago when I was traveling through Mexico," Martha began. "I stumbled upon a small food stand in a bustling market, where a friendly woman was serving up the most amazing taco salad I had ever tasted. I begged her for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me."

As Martha continued to chop and mix the ingredients, she recounted how she had adapted the original recipe to suit her own taste over the years. She added extra spices, a dash of hot sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to give the salad a zesty kick.

After we had finished preparing the salad, Martha served it up in a large bowl, topped with crunchy tortilla strips and a dollop of creamy avocado dressing. As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the bold flavors and textures of the dish. The tangy salsa, the savory ground beef, the crisp lettuce – everything came together in perfect harmony.

From that moment on, Zippy Taco Salad became a staple in my own recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Each time I whipped up a batch of the salad, I thought fondly of Martha and our shared love for good food.

As the years went by, I continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it uniquely my own. I swapped out the ground beef for ground turkey, added black beans for extra protein, and experimented with different types of cheese and toppings.

One day, my grandchildren came over for a visit and I decided to make them a special treat – my famous Zippy Taco Salad. They eagerly gathered around the kitchen counter as I showed them how to chop veggies, brown the meat, and assemble the salad. They were so excited to help out and learn from their old grandmother.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I watched with pride as my grandchildren devoured their plates of Zippy Taco Salad. They couldn't get enough of the bold flavors and vibrant colors, just like I had been all those years ago.

And so, the tradition of Zippy Taco Salad lives on in our family, passed down from generation to generation. I hope that one day, my grandchildren will share this recipe with their own loved ones, creating new memories and flavors along the way.

As I sit here reminiscing about the origins of this beloved dish, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships, travels, and experiences that have shaped my culinary journey. And I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish both body and soul, and to create lasting connections that span the test of time.