Tex-Mex Cobb Salad
A Fiesta in a Bowl
This Tex-Mex Cobb Salad is a bold colorful and satisfying meal layered with spiced ground beef hearty black beans sweet corn creamy avocado juicy tomatoes crunchy tortilla chips and a drizzle of cool creamy dressing Every bite is packed with smoky spice fresh veggies and rich flavor making it a perfect choice for lunch dinner or a festive gathering Quick to prepare and full of textures and colors this salad brings the spirit of a Tex-Mex fiesta straight to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Ingredients
4 cups chopped mixed greens or romaine lettuce
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
1 cup sweet corn kernels cooked
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado sliced
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
For the creamy dressing
1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chipotle powder or use a spoonful of adobo sauce
Water to thin if needed
Salt to taste
Instructions
In a skillet over medium heat cook ground beef until browned then add taco seasoning smoked paprika and a splash of water Cook another 2 to 3 minutes then set aside
Spread the chopped greens in a large serving bowl or platter
Arrange ground beef black beans corn tomatoes avocado and tortilla chips in sections over the greens
In a small bowl whisk together sour cream mayonnaise lime juice chipotle powder and salt Add a little water to thin if needed until it can be drizzled
Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad
Sprinkle chopped cilantro and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top
Serve immediately and enjoy
Tips and Variations
Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version
Add sliced jalapeño or pickled onions for extra heat and zing
Swap tortilla chips with crushed corn chips or homemade baked strips for a crunch boost
Use grilled corn off the cob for smoky flavor and texture
Add shredded lettuce under the greens for more body
Mix in chopped red bell pepper or cucumber for added freshness
Use a store-bought chipotle ranch or avocado lime dressing to save time
Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra beans or quinoa
Meal prep by keeping the dressing and tortilla chips separate until ready to serve
Serve in mason jars for portable lunches or picnics
Q and A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes prepare all ingredients ahead but store the dressing and tortilla chips separately Add them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy
Q: Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely ground turkey chicken or even plant-based crumbles work great
Q: What if I do not have chipotle powder?
A: You can use smoked paprika and a little hot sauce instead for a smoky spicy flavor
Q: How do I keep the avocado from browning?
A: Toss sliced avocado in a little lime juice to keep it green and fresh longer
Q: Is this salad gluten free?
A: It can be Make sure the taco seasoning and tortilla chips you use are certified gluten free
Nutrition Information
Per serving approximately
Calories 520
Protein 24g
Fat 32g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 5g
Sodium 680mg
Conclusion
This Tex-Mex Cobb Salad is a celebration of bold flavors fresh veggies and hearty textures all in one colorful bowl Perfect for busy weeknights casual get-togethers or meal prep it is easy to make satisfying to eat and endlessly customizable One bite and it feels like a fiesta every time