Description
Fritos chili cheese salad brings together classic Southwestern flavors in a crowd-pleasing dish. Mexican-inspired layers of crunchy corn chips, hearty beef chili, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head romaine lettuce (or iceberg), chopped
- 1 (10 oz / 283 g) bag chili cheese fritos, slightly crushed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup bell pepper (red or green), chopped
- ½ cup black beans (optional, drained & rinsed)
- ½ cup corn kernels (optional, fresh or canned)
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional)
Instructions
- Dressing Preparation: Whisk ranch dressing, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and uniform, creating a zesty flavor base.
- Salad Assembly: In a large mixing bowl, layer crisp lettuce as the foundation, then artfully distribute diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, bell peppers, black beans, corn kernels, and shredded cheese for a vibrant and colorful composition.
- Dressing Integration: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad components, gently tossing to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated and infused with the tangy flavor profile.
- Final Garnish: Immediately before serving, sprinkle crushed chili cheese Fritos across the salad, strategically dispersing them to maintain maximum crispness and textural contrast. Optional: Garnish with additional cheese and a lime wedge to enhance visual appeal and provide a fresh citrus accent.
Notes
- Prevent Soggy Crunch: Add Fritos just before serving to maintain their crisp texture and prevent moisture absorption from other ingredients.
- Balance Flavor Layers: Whisk dressing ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning distribution and a harmonious taste profile across the salad.
- Customize Protein Options: Easily swap black beans with grilled chicken, shredded beef, or tofu for varied dietary preferences and protein requirements.
- Prepare Ahead Strategically: Keep dressing and chopped vegetables separate until serving to preserve freshness and prevent wilting of salad components.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 366
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 712 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg