Beef Taco Salad Bowls with Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
These Beef Taco Salad Bowls with Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing combine perfectly seasoned lean ground beef, crisp mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, black beans, shredded cheese, and creamy avocado slices. Topped with a tangy and fresh cilantro lime dressing and optional crunchy tortilla strips, this quick and flavorful meal is versatile, nutrient-balanced, and easy to customize for any dietary preference or occasion.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (blend of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder)
- 2 tbsp water (for simmering)
Salad Components
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, or spring mix)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
Cilantro Lime Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Crunch
- 1/2 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning mixed with 2 tablespoons water and let it simmer briefly until the flavors meld perfectly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust lime juice and seasoning to taste to achieve a creamy, tangy consistency.
- Assemble the Salad Bowls: Begin with a bed of mixed greens in individual bowls. Layer the seasoned beef on top, followed by black beans, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado slices. Drizzle generously with the creamy cilantro lime dressing and sprinkle with tortilla strips or chips for crunch.
- Final Touches: Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge for additional zest. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm beef combined with fresh salad and rich dressing.
Notes
- Use fresh cilantro for the dressing to ensure bright, authentic flavor.
- Do not overcook the beef; cook just until browned and still juicy.
- Toast the taco seasoning lightly in the pan before adding water for deeper flavor.
- Chill the dressing for 15 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
- Add crunchy tortilla strips or chips just before eating to keep them crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: beef taco salad, cilantro lime dressing, taco salad bowl, quick dinner, healthy taco bowl, gluten-free taco bowl, easy weeknight meal, meal prep salad, Mexican-inspired salad