Description
Welcome to this easy and delicious Cowboy Salad recipe! If you love fresh, vibrant salads packed with bold flavors, this Cowboy Salad will become a staple on your dining table. Combining the crispness of fresh greens, the creaminess of avocado, and the smokey flavor of BBQ ranch dressing, this salad is sure to please everyone at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients:
- 1 Head of Romaine Lettuce, chopped
- 15 oz Black Beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 oz Black Eyed Peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 Cup Frozen Corn, thawed and drained
- 6 Slices chiken, cooked and chopped
- 2 Cups Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1 Avocado, chopped
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
- 1 Jalapeño Pepper, seeded and minced
- ½ Red Onion, diced
- 1 Handful Fresh Cilantro, chopped
BBQ Ranch Dressing:
- 1 Cup Mayonnaise
- ½ Cup Smokey Sweet BBQ Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Lime Juice
Optional Substitutions:
- For a vegetarian option: Skip the bacon or use plant-based chiken.
- For a dairy-free version: Replace cheddar cheese with a vegan alternative.
- For a lighter dressing: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
- Chop the Romaine Lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
Step 2: Add the Veggies and Beans
- Toss in Black Beans, Black Eyed Peas, Corn, Cherry Tomatoes, Bell Pepper, and Red Onion.
- Add in the Cilantro, giving the salad a fresh and herby flavor.
Step 3: Mix in the Protein and Dairy
- Stir in the Bacon and Cheddar Cheese for a rich, savory touch.
- Add the chopped Avocado and minced Jalapeño for a creamy, spicy kick.
Step 4: Whisk the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Mayonnaise, BBQ Sauce, Dijon Mustard, Worcestershire Sauce, and Lime Juice until smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tip: If you like your salad with extra crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh veggies for the best flavor and crunch.
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add ingredients like roasted corn, grilled chicken, or jalapeños for extra heat.
- Make It a Meal: Serve the salad with a side of cornbread or baked potatoes for a complete meal.