What are the ingredients in avocado ranch chopped salad?

An avocado ranch chopped salad typically includes chopped romaine lettuce, sautéed bell peppers and corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and a handful of green onions. To add crunch, roasted salted pumpkin seeds or pepitas are a popular addition. The salad is tossed with a creamy dressing made from avocado, dairy-free ranch, fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Some versions may also include shredded cheese or dairy-free alternatives depending on dietary needs. This combination brings together bold textures and flavors in one nutrient-rich bowl.

How do you make Mexican ranch dressing?

To make a flavorful Mexican ranch dressing, blend a base of dairy-free ranch (or regular ranch if preferred) with one ripe avocado, juice from a fresh lime, and a small handful of cilantro leaves. This gives it a vibrant green color and a creamy, herbaceous flavor. Optional additions include a pinch of cumin, garlic powder, or jalapeño for extra heat. Blend until smooth and creamy. This dressing is not only great on chopped salads, but also as a dip or sandwich spread.

What is in avocado ranch dressing?

Avocado ranch dressing usually includes ripe avocado, ranch dressing (dairy-free or traditional), fresh lime juice, and cilantro. This blend results in a rich, tangy, and velvety texture that's perfect for hearty salads like the Chopped Mexican Salad with Creamy Avocado Ranch . The avocado lends creaminess and healthy fats, while lime juice adds brightness and balance. Cilantro infuses it with a fresh, unmistakably Mexican-inspired flavor profile.

What does a Mexican salad consist of?

A traditional Mexican salad consists of a mix of crunchy greens (like romaine or iceberg), vibrant vegetables (such as corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions), and hearty toppings like black beans or grilled chicken. Often topped with cheese, seeds, or tortilla strips, it’s commonly paired with dressings like lime vinaigrette, chipotle crema, or avocado ranch. The goal is to balance texture, heat, and freshness — all elements found in the Chopped Mexican Salad with Creamy Avocado Ranch .

Chopped Mexican Salad with Creamy Avocado Ranch

Description

Chopped Mexican Salad with Creamy Avocado Ranch is a dairy-free, flavorful, and healthy dish with sautéed veggies and creamy avocado dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad:
- 1–2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
- 1 large orange bell pepper, diced
- Kernels from 2 ears of corn
- 5 green onions, thinly sliced
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce (from 1 large head)
- ½ cup crumbled dairy-free cheese or omit if preferred
- ½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 small Roma tomatoes, diced
- ⅓ cup roasted salted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
For the Creamy Avocado Dressing:
- ½ cup dairy-free ranch dressing
- 1 ripe avocado
- Juice from 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves

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Instructions

Cook Vegetables:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced bell pepper and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Shave corn kernels from the cob and slice green onions.
- Add corn and green onions to the skillet and sauté for another 4 minutes, stirring often. Reduce heat if corn starts popping.
- Once vegetables are tender and lightly browned, remove from heat and allow to cool.
Prepare Salad Base:
- Place chopped romaine lettuce in a large bowl or platter.
- Rinse and drain black beans. Dice the tomatoes. Set aside along with cheese alternative (if using) and pumpkin seeds.
Make the Dressing:
- Blend ranch dressing, avocado, lime juice, and cilantro in a blender until smooth.
Assemble the Salad:
- Toss romaine with desired amount of dressing.
- Top with the sautéed corn mixture, black beans, tomatoes, pumpkin seeds, and cheese substitute.