Mexican Green Salad with a Spicy Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

"A nice change from the traditional green salad with tomato, onion, and cucumber. Great served with Mexican food, although, it can be served with pretty much anything. You can also make this salad as a a main course by adding chicken or shrimp. I prefer to use a mix of red leaf and romaine, but you can use your favorite greens; or what is available and in season."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Dressing ... Mix everything together in a small bowl, cup, or a tupperware container (which is my favorite; you can just add everything and shake). Refrigerate until ready to use. Letting it set an hour or two really lets the flavor develop.

Step 2

Salad ... Add all the ingredients to a large serving bowl or platter. I add the avocado last so it doesn't break up too much.

Step 3

Finish and Serve ... Add the dressing to the salad (as much as you want), and lightly toss. Add the avocado last, so it doesn't get over mixed. If you want, garnish with cotija cheese or your favorite cheese; black olives or even more cilantro. Serve and ENJOY!

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.

Tips for selecting ingredients

When selecting an avocado, look for one that is slightly soft to the touch and dark in color.
Try to use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.

Ingredient substitutions

Instead of red onion, use shallots - Shallots are milder in flavor than red onions and have a hint of garlic flavor, which will complement the other flavors in the salad.
Instead of black beans, use chickpeas - Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making this salad a more filling and nutritious option. They also have a nutty flavor that will add a nice contrast to the other ingredients.

Variations

Tropical Green Salad Substitute the black beans for 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks, use honeydew melon instead of avocado, and replace the red onion with a fresh mango. For the dressing, use a combination of orange juice and lime juice instead of just lime juice, and replace the balsamic vinegar with white wine vinegar.

Tropical Fruit Salad Substitute the black beans for 1 cup of fresh strawberries, use honeydew melon instead of avocado, and replace the red onion with a fresh banana. For the dressing, use a combination of pineapple juice and lime juice instead of just lime juice, and replace the balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar.

Serve with

Mexican Street Corn: Mexican Street Corn is a great side dish to serve with this Mexican Green Salad. It is a delicious combination of sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, salty cheese, and a hint of lime and chili. The flavors of the Mexican Street Corn will complement the spicy lime vinaigrette of the salad perfectly, making it an excellent choice for a complete meal.

Mexican Rice: Mexican Rice is a great accompaniment to this Mexican Green Salad. The flavors of the Mexican Rice will pair nicely with the spicy lime vinaigrette of the salad, creating a delicious and balanced meal. The Mexican Rice is cooked with garlic, onion, and tomatoes, and can be spiced up with jalapenos for an extra kick. This flavorful side dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

FAQ

Q: How can I make this salad as a main course?

A: You can make this salad as a main course by adding chicken or shrimp. Alternatively, you can add other proteins such as beans, tofu, or fish.

Q: What are some healthy ingredients to add to a salad?

A: Healthy ingredients to add to a salad include leafy greens, vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots, nuts, seeds, and a healthy dressing such as olive oil and vinegar. Fruits such as apples, oranges, and berries can also be added for sweetness.