If you’re craving the bold flavors of a taco but want something a little lighter (and maybe a little greener), this Turkey Taco Salad is your new go-to. It’s everything you love about tacos—spiced meat, creamy dressing, vibrant toppings—but served in a fresh, crunchy salad bowl. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners, this dish is a total winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes or less
- Healthy & Hearty – Loaded with lean protein, fiber, and fresh veggies
- Big on Flavor – Thanks to taco-seasoned turkey and a zesty, creamy salsa dressing
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ½ cup salsa
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup grilled corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, diced (or 1 cup prepared guacamole)
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
For the Creamy Salsa Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or dairy-free mayo)
- ¼ cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Tajín or chili-lime seasoning (optional)
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Turkey
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked—about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the mixture.
Step 2: Mix the DressingWhisk together mayonnaise, salsa, lime juice, and Tajín (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl or platter, start with a bed of chopped romaine. Top with black beans, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheddar, avocado (or guacamole), and warm turkey mixture.
Step 4: Dress It Up
Drizzle the creamy salsa dressing over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Make It Your Own
- Add Crunch: Crushed tortilla chips or sliced radishes bring great texture
- Go Spicy: Use hot salsa or add jalapeños for a kick
- Swap the Protein: Try ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles
- Make It a Bowl: Serve over rice or quinoa for extra staying power
- Meal Prep Tip: Store salad components and dressing separately for easy assembly
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Taco Salad is the kind of meal you can feel great about eating. It’s hearty but fresh, filling but light, and packed with color and crunch in every bite. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or prepping lunches for the week, this salad is sure to satisfy your taco cravings—no tortilla required.
Happy cooking!