Start by preparing the dressing. In a blender, combine all the dressing ingredients: ⅓ cup milk, Ranch dip or dressing mix, mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, and if you like it spicy, the diced jalapeños. Blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about that perfect creaminess!
Once your dressing is ready, set it aside in the refrigerator to chill. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the salad ingredients.
Next, take your romaine lettuce and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped lettuce in a large mixing bowl, creating a solid foundation for your salad.
Now, it’s time to add the orange bell pepper. Dice it into small chunks and toss it in with the lettuce. The sweetness and crunch of the bell pepper will enhance the overall flavor.
Open the can of black beans and rinse them under cold water to remove any excess sodium. Then, drain them well and add them to the bowl. The black beans not only add protein but also give your salad a hearty feel.
Next, halve the cherry tomatoes. Their juicy sweetness will complement the other ingredients perfectly. Toss them in the bowl with the other vegetables.
Add the corn to the mixture. If you’re using canned corn, be sure to drain it first. The corn adds a delightful sweetness and texture that balances the salad.
Now, take your avocado and slice it into cubes. Add the avocado to the bowl gently to avoid mashing it. The creaminess of the avocado is a heavenly addition!
Cube the cooked chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. Season them to taste before adding them to the salad. This will help ensure that every bite is full of flavor.
For an added touch, sprinkle some diced green onions and chopped fresh cilantro on top. These ingredients are optional but definitely elevate the taste!
Finally, give everything a gentle toss to combine all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to crush the avocado as you mix.
When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the chilled dressing over the salad. Toss it lightly one last time to coat everything in that delicious creamy dressing.
Your Southwest Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately or store it in the fridge for a quick meal later.
