Healthier Taco Salad

Taco salad is a popular and delicious dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a salad. However, traditional taco salad often includes high-calorie and high-fat ingredients such as fried tortilla shells, fatty ground beef, and excessive amounts of cheese and sour cream. In response to the growing demand for healthier options, many people have started to create their own versions of taco salad that are lower in calories and healthier overall.

Healthier Taco Salad
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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

35 mins

Servings:

8

Yield:

8 servings

Ingredients

2 pounds lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 ½ cups low-sodium tomato juice
2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce (such as Frank's RedHot®)
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 (14.5 ounce) package baked tortilla chips, or to taste
1 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese, or to taste
⅓ head iceberg lettuce, shredded, or to taste
1 cup salsa, or to taste

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir beef and onion in the hot skillet until beef is no longer pink, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard grease, and return beef to the skillet. Add tomato juice, hot sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper. Reduce heat and simmer gently, about 15 minutes.

Step 2

Break tortilla chips into bowls and top with the ground beef mixture. Finish with Cheddar cheese, lettuce, and salsa.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

479

Calories

17g

Fat

51g

Carbs

33g

Protein

Complement

A healthier taco salad typically includes a base of fresh, crisp lettuce and a variety of colorful vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Lean proteins such as grilled chicken or turkey can replace the traditional ground beef, and a smaller amount of cheese and sour cream can still provide that creamy and indulgent flavor without adding excessive calories. By making these simple swaps, it is possible to enjoy a delicious and satisfying taco salad without sacrificing flavor or feeling guilty about indulging in a high-calorie meal.