Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Vegetables
While the meat is cooking, wash and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, beans, shredded cheese, olives, and red onion. Gently toss everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Seasoned Meat
Once the taco meat has cooled a bit (warm is fine, but not hot), add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss gently to combine. This step allows the savory taco flavor to spread throughout the salad.
Step 4: Mix in the Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Start with about ¾ of the dressing and toss well. Add more if needed, but be careful not to overdress—the salad should be well coated, not soggy.
Step 5: Add the Doritos at the Right Time
Just before serving, add the crushed Doritos. Toss lightly so they stay crunchy. Adding them too early will cause them to soften, so this step is best done at the very last moment.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Give the salad a quick taste. If needed, add a pinch of salt, a little extra cheese, or a handful of fresh Doritos for more crunch. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
- Make it ahead: Prepare all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
- Customize it: Add avocado, corn, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
- Make it lighter: Use ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, or a yogurt-based dressing.
- Serve it as a meal or side: This salad is hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs well with grilled meats or tacos.
Final Thoughts
Doritos Taco Salad is a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that blends comfort food with fresh ingredients. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and always a hit thanks to its irresistible crunch and bold taco flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to share, this salad is guaranteed to disappear fast—so you might want to make a double batch! 🌮🥗
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