Description
Spicy Turkey Taco Salad with Baja Lime Dressing is a bold and colorful dish that brings together the zest of Mexican flavors in a healthy, satisfying meal. Featuring chipotle-seasoned turkey, fresh greens, black beans, creamy avocado, and sweet mango, each bite is a delightful explosion of taste and texture. The salad is topped with crunchy tortilla chips and drizzled with a zesty Baja lime dressing that adds the perfect finishing touch. This versatile recipe is not only easy to prepare for busy weeknights but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next potluck, this salad delivers on flavors and freshness.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken
- 2–3 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds (or 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- kosher salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 cups mixed leafy greens
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 mango, diced
- 3/4 cup cubed cheddar cheese
- crushed tortilla chips or strips
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 jalapeño, seeded if desired
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook the turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned (about 5 minutes). Stir in spices and water; cook until evaporated. Mix in chopped cilantro.
- Make the dressing: Blend Greek yogurt, lime juice, vinegar, honey, jalapeño, cilantro, salt until smooth. Stir in chives.
- Assemble the salad: In a bowl, combine greens, black beans, avocado, mango, cheddar cheese. Top with cooked turkey and drizzle with dressing. Toss gently and add crushed tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (450g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize by adding extra veggies or adjusting spice levels to your preference. Prepare the turkey meat and dressing ahead of time for quicker assembly. Enjoy the salad fresh; store leftovers separately to prevent sogginess.