Dorito Taco Salad

🥗🌮 Dorito Taco Salad (Mediterranean-Inspired Twist)

Crunchy, bold, and satisfying — with a lighter, balanced approach

This Dorito Taco Salad combines seasoned ground meat, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy dressing, and crunchy chips for that irresistible texture contrast. Inspired by classic Tex-Mex flavors from Mexico and rebalanced with Mediterranean principles (olive oil, Greek yogurt, fresh herbs), this version keeps the fun while adding wholesome ingredients.

It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, Ramadan gatherings, or a hearty weekend lunch.

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🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Big flavor with satisfying crunch

• Protein-packed and filling

• Customizable & family-friendly

• Easy 25-minute meal

• Can be made lighter without losing taste

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Taco Meat:

• 500g lean ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon oregano

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• ¼ cup water

For the Salad Base:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed & drained)

• ½ red onion (thinly sliced)

• 1 avocado (diced)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack

• 1–2 cups crushed nacho-style tortilla chips (add just before serving)

Light Mediterranean Dressing:

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt to taste

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Meat

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet.

2. Sauté onion until soft.

3. Add garlic and cook briefly.

4. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

5. Stir in spices, tomato paste, and water.

6. Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

7. Let cool slightly before adding to salad.

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Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, honey, cumin, paprika, and salt until smooth.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:

1. Add lettuce, tomatoes, corn, beans, onion, avocado, and cheese.

2. Add warm (not hot) taco meat.

3. Drizzle dressing over top.

4. Toss gently.

5. Add crushed chips just before serving for maximum crunch.

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🥗 Mediterranean Health Benefits

• Olive oil → heart-healthy fats

• Greek yogurt → protein & probiotics

• Beans & corn → fiber for fullness

• Avocado → healthy monounsaturated fats

• Fresh vegetables → antioxidants & vitamins

This version balances indulgence with nourishing ingredients.

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🔄 Variations

• Swap beef for grilled chicken

• Use baked tortilla chips for lighter option

• Add chopped cucumber for freshness

• Make it spicy with jalapeños or chili flakes

• Use feta instead of cheddar for a Mediterranean flair

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❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes — prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving to keep it crisp.

Q2: How do I prevent soggy salad?

Add chips and dressing only right before serving.

Q3: Can I make it low-carb?

Skip corn and chips; increase lettuce, avocado, and protein.

Q4: How long does it last?

Without chips and dressing mixed in, it lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely — replace beef with seasoned lentils or sautéed mushrooms.

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🌟 Serving Tip

Serve in a large shallow bowl and sprinkle extra chips and fresh cilantro on top for a vibrant, party-ready presentation.