Seven Layer Taco Salad

🌮 Seven Layer Taco Salad (Mediterranean-Inspired)

📝 Description

This Seven Layer Taco Salad is a crowd-pleasing layered dish that brings together seasoned protein, crisp vegetables, creamy yogurt sauce, and fresh toppings. With a Mediterranean twist—using olive oil and Greek yogurt instead of heavy dressings—it stays lighter while still delivering big flavor. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep, and easy to customize for everyone at the table.

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🥗 The 7 Layers

1️⃣ Seasoned Protein

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef or ground turkey

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt & black pepper to taste

2️⃣ Romaine or Mixed Greens

• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens

3️⃣ Beans

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, rinsed & drained

4️⃣ Corn

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

5️⃣ Tomato Layer

• 1½ cups diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes

6️⃣ Creamy Yogurt Layer

• 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt to taste

7️⃣ Toppings

• ½ cup shredded cheese or crumbled feta

• ¼ cup sliced olives or jalapeños

• Fresh cilantro or parsley

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the protein:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add ground meat and spices. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Let cool slightly.

2. Prepare yogurt layer:
   Mix Greek yogurt, lemon/lime juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth.

3. Layer the salad:
   In a large glass bowl or trifle dish, layer in this order:

   1. Lettuce

   2. Beans

   3. Corn

   4. Seasoned meat

   5. Tomatoes

   6. Yogurt sauce

   7. Cheese, olives, herbs

4. Chill for 20–30 minutes or serve immediately.

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🍽 Serving Ideas

• Scoop with baked tortilla chips or pita chips

• Serve as a main-dish salad

• Turn into individual mason-jar salads for meal prep

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❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Swap meat for lentils, chickpeas, or grilled veggies.

Q: Is this salad healthy?
A: Very—lean protein, beans, vegetables, olive oil, and yogurt align well with Mediterranean-style eating.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, but add the yogurt layer just before serving for best texture.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 2 days, tightly covered.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the meat or yogurt layer.