Easy Seven-Layer Taco Salad

If you’re craving a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s both healthy and easy to make, this Seven-Layer Taco Salad is the perfect solution. Packed with layers of fresh veggies, seasoned ground turkey, and a lightened-up taco dressing, it’s an ideal choice for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
• 1 packet low-sodium taco seasoning (or homemade blend: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
• 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1 avocado, diced (optional, adjust points accordingly)

For the Light Taco Dressing:

• 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot based on preference)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Turkey

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Taco Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, salsa, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Assemble the Salad Layers

In a large serving bowl or a 9×13-inch dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:

1. Shredded romaine lettuce
2. Seasoned ground turkey
3. Black beans
4. Corn
5. Cherry tomatoes
6. Shredded cheese
7. Black olives and avocado (if using)

4. Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the taco dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side for individual customization. Garnish with extra lime wedges or fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 250-280
• WW Points: 5-7 points (depending on toppings and dressing portion)
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 18g
• Protein: 22g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Customizable Layers: Adjust the layers to suit your preferences—add more veggies or swap out ingredients like beans or cheese.
2. Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead of time—just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
3. Lighter and Healthier: With lean protein and a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing, this salad is lower in points but packed with flavor.
4. Great for Sharing: A colorful, crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, potlucks, or Taco Tuesday!

Pro Tips

• Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa in the dressing.
• Lower the Points: Skip the cheese or avocado and add more fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber.
• Serve as Individual Bowls: Assemble in mason jars or meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Add Crunch: Top with a few crushed baked tortilla chips or a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for extra texture (adjust points accordingly).

This Seven-Layer Taco Salad is a deliciously satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos in a lighter, healthier format. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a festive dinner, this salad will be a hit!