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santa fe salad

Fresh Santa Fe Salad

A vibrant Southwestern-inspired salad featuring black beans, corn, and crisp vegetables with a zesty lime dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Green Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 6 cups mixed greens romaine, spring mix, or butter lettuce
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen and thawed, or fire-roasted
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
Optional Toppings
  • 1 ripe avocado diced
  • 1/3 cup cotija or feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup roasted pepitas or sunflower seeds
  • 1 jalapeƱo seeded and minced

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Whisk
  • Salad tongs

Method
 

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry mixed greens. Tear any large leaves into bite-sized pieces and place in a large serving bowl.
  2. Rinse and drain black beans to remove excess sodium and starch.
  3. Prepare corn kernels. If using frozen, ensure they're fully thawed and patted dry.
  4. Dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform pieces about 1/4-inch in size.
  5. Thinly slice the red onion. For a milder flavor, soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  6. Add the black beans, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl with the greens.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Drizzle the lime dressing over the salad ingredients.
  9. Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with dressing, being careful not to bruise the greens.
  10. Allow the salad to rest for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  11. If using optional ingredients like avocado, cheese, or cilantro, gently fold them in just before serving.
  12. Serve immediately as a refreshing main dish or flavorful side.

Notes

  • For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
  • The lime juice in the dressing will cause greens to wilt over time, so this salad is best enjoyed fresh.
  • For meal prep, store components separately and assemble just before eating.
  • Fire-roasted corn adds an extra dimension of smoky flavor.