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Spicy Southwest Salad (with Spicy Ranch Dressing)

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A fresh and flavorful spicy Southwest salad loaded with crisp vegetables, tender chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado, topped with a creamy, zesty spicy ranch dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad balances heat, crunch, and creaminess in every bite.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins (if using pre-cooked chicken)
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Yield: 4 main servings or 6 side servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Southwest American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced (grilled or pan-seared)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or roasted)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Spicy Ranch Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1–2 tablespoons hot sauce or chipotle sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare vegetables by chopping lettuce, halving tomatoes, and dicing avocado and bell pepper.
  2. In a large salad bowl, layer romaine lettuce as the base.
  3. Arrange chicken slices, tomatoes, avocado, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cheese, green onions, and cilantro on top of the lettuce.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, hot sauce or chipotle sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  5. Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve on the side.

Notes

  • Serves 4 as a main course or 6 as a side.
  • Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or steak for variety.
  • For vegetarian, omit meat and add extra beans or roasted sweet potatoes.
  • Top with tortilla strips for extra crunch.
  • Mix Greek yogurt into the dressing for a creamier texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/spicy-southwest-salad-with-spicy-ranch-dressing/