Introduction
This delightful salad incorporates fresh ingredients and a flavorful dressing, making it the perfect addition to any meal. With crunchy romaine hearts, savory cheese, and a zesty dressing, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with this vibrant dish.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Salad:
– 6 cups chopped romaine hearts
– 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese or queso fresco
– 1/2 cup tortilla strips
– 1/4 cup roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, and fajita seasoning until smooth. While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine hearts, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla strips, and roasted pepitas. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss the salad gently to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Serve:
Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls. Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and tortilla strips.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, and fajita seasoning until smooth. While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine hearts, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla strips, and roasted pepitas. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss the salad gently to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve
Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls. Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and tortilla strips.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Dressing Storage
If not using all the dressing at once, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Salad Variations
Feel free to add other ingredients such as grilled chicken, avocado, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a side dish for tacos and enchiladas.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is essential for combining and emulsifying ingredients in dressings. Start by whisking together the thicker components like mayonnaise and mustard before gradually adding liquid ingredients to achieve a smooth consistency.
Drizzling
When adding oil to a dressing, drizzle it slowly while continuously whisking. This technique helps to emulsify the oil with the other ingredients, creating a creamy and stable dressing.
Chopping
Chop the romaine hearts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution in the salad. This method provides a more pleasant texture and allows for better coating with the dressing.
Tossing
Gently toss the salad ingredients rather than stirring vigorously. This technique maintains the integrity of the lettuce and tortilla strips, keeping them crisp and intact.
Serving Immediately
Serve the salad immediately after dressing to ensure that the ingredients remain fresh and the tortilla strips retain their crunch. Prepare the salad just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter dressing or have dietary restrictions.
What can I use instead of fajita seasoning?
If you don’t have fajita seasoning, a mix of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder can be a good alternative.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Absolutely! You can include additional toppings like grilled chicken, avocado, or other vegetables such as bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
How should I store leftover salad?
If there are leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good whisk before using.
Conclusion
This salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with its creamy dressing, crunchy romaine, and the added richness of cheese and pepitas. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main meal, making it versatile for any occasion. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant tastes that this salad brings to your table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad
Add grilled chicken breast seasoned with taco spices for a protein boost.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
Incorporate black beans and corn for extra fiber and a pop of sweetness.
Avocado and Mango Salsa
Top the salad with diced avocado and mango for a fresh, tropical twist.
Spicy Shrimp Salad
Include spicy shrimp for a seafood twist that enhances the flavor profile.
Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad
Mix in cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables for added nutrition and heartiness.
Caesar Salad Variation
Substitute the dressing with a light Caesar dressing and include parmesan cheese for a classic twist.
Southwestern Chickpea Salad
Add chickpeas and cilantro for a plant-based option packed with protein and flavor.
