spicy southwest salad (with spicy ranch dressing)

Here’s a bold and flavorful Spicy Southwest Salad recipe with a zesty Spicy Ranch Dressing:

Ingredients for Salad:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels (grilled or canned)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (optional for topping)

Ingredients for Spicy Ranch Dressing:

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

For the Salad:

1. Prepare the vegetables: Chop the romaine lettuce, dice the bell pepper and avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Drain and rinse the black beans.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the romaine lettuce, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, avocado, red onion, cheese, and cilantro.
3. Add the crunch: Top with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch if desired.

For the Spicy Ranch Dressing:

1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing, hot sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce.
2. Dress the salad: Drizzle the spicy ranch dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well-coated.

This Spicy Southwest Salad is packed with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a kick of heat from the dressing, making it perfect for a bold and satisfying meal!