Description
A fun and portable layered taco salad packed with hearty ground beef, fresh vegetables, crunchy tortilla chips, and zesty dressing, all stored conveniently in jars. Ideal for meal prep lunches or quick on-the-go meals, combining Tex-Mex flavors with easy assembly.
Ingredients
Meat Layer
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
Vegetables
- 2 cups chopped lettuce
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup corn (fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned)
Other Ingredients
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips
- ½ cup dressing (Catalina or ranch)
Instructions
- Season the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the taco seasoning and mix well to evenly coat the meat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Jars: Start by pouring ½ cup of your chosen dressing into the bottom of each jar. Add an even layer of the seasoned meat on top of the dressing, followed by a layer of corn, then cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and finally a layer of chopped lettuce. Finish by topping with crushed tortilla chips to add a crunchy texture.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Secure the lids tightly on each jar and place them in the refrigerator. These salad jars will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Serve: When ready to eat, remove the jar from the fridge and shake thoroughly to mix all the layers and dressing together. Enjoy your flavorful, fresh taco salad directly from the jar or pour it into a bowl if preferred.
Notes
- Salad jars keep fresh for up to 3 days when refrigerated.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute cooked beans (black or pinto) in place of ground meat.
- Use sturdy jars with airtight lids to maintain freshness and prevent leakage.
- To avoid soggy chips, add them just before eating if possible.
- Customize the dressing to your preference, such as using salsa or a creamy avocado dressing.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
