Vibrant and Flavorful: Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad with Avocado Dressing

Introduction:

Indulge in a burst of fresh flavors with this Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad topped with a creamy avocado dressing. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich beans, and zesty spices, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a vibrant side dish for your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Plus, the homemade avocado dressing adds a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess that elevates the dish to the next level.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup black beans, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
  • Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for garnish (optional)

For the Avocado Dressing:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Water (as needed to thin out dressing)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Salad:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, chopped red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
  2. Make the Avocado Dressing:
    • In a blender or food processor, combine the flesh of one ripe avocado, fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, you can add a little water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
  3. Assemble the Salad:
    • Drizzle the avocado dressing over the salad mixture and toss until evenly coated. Add diced avocado and minced jalapeno pepper (if using) on top of the salad.
  4. Garnish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips over the salad for added crunch and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
  • Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 9g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 7g

Smart WW Points:

  • Each serving of this Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad with Avocado Dressing is approximately 6 SmartPoints on the Weight Watchers plan, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for your meal.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with this vibrant and nutritious salad. Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich beans, and a creamy avocado dressing, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a colorful side dish, this Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad is a delicious way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet.