Go Back
High Protein Taco Salad

High Protein Taco Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g lean ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix or homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped about 6 cups
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 large ripe avocado, diced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup tortilla chips small chunks
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
  • salt for taste

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
  3. When turkey is nearly browned (about 5 minutes), sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Continue cooking until turkey is completely browned and no longer pink, about 2-3 more minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro to make the dressing.
  7. Rinse and drain black beans, then pat them dry with paper towels.
  8. In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine with half of the dressing.
  9. Arrange the dressed lettuce on a serving platter or individual plates.
  10. Layer the seasoned turkey, black beans, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and shredded cheese over the lettuce.
  11. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the assembled salad.
  12. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro and crushed tortilla chips just before serving.

Notes

  • Meal Prep: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Add dressing, avocado, and chips only when ready to eat.
  • Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for the turkey. For vegetarian version, double the beans or add seasoned tofu.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free yogurt for the dressing and omit cheese or use plant-based alternative.
  • Extra Veggies: Add corn, bell peppers, red onion, or jalapeños for more nutrients and flavor.
  • Boost Protein: Add a second can of beans or 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds for even more protein.
  • Make Ahead Tip: The seasoned turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Heat Level: Adjust spiciness by adding cayenne to the taco seasoning or including diced jalapeños.
  • Serving Suggestion: For a beautiful presentation, arrange components in sections rather than mixing together.