This Mexican Caesar salad recipe takes crisp romaine lettuce and pairs it with bold Mexican flavors to make a delicious dish. Grilled corn, savory chicken, and fresh jalapenos are only a few of the exciting flavors in this salad. It is topped with a creamy dressing that is half Caesar, half salsa, and a hearty squeeze of lime juice to make all the flavors and textures meld together beautifully.

For more Mexican inspired recipes you have to check out my Mexican Chicken Skillet, Cheesy Mexican Cornbread, and Mexican Bean Soup.

Variations

Protein – You can swap out the chicken and add beef, shrimp, or even anchovies if you want to enhance that classic Caesar salad taste.

Cheese – If you don’t have cotija cheese on hand you can also use parmesan cheese or queso fresco in this salad

Recipe Ingredients

Salsa – To mix with the Caesar dressing and create a flavorful twist for this salad.

Corn – To season and grill and add a smoky bite to this recipe.

Cotija cheese – One of the flavors of Mexico that is used on top of a number of Mexican dishes like my Mexican Corn Salad.

For a full list of ingredients and amounts see the recipe card below.

How to Make Mexican Caesar Salad

Step #1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a baking sheet with cooking spray and add the chicken to the pan.

Step #2: Season the chicken with salt and pepper and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step #3: Then, preheat your grill or grill pan to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and coat the outside of each corn with butter and elote seasoning.

Step #4: Grill until tender, about 10 minutes, then remove it and cut the kernels off and set aside.

Step #5: In a jar or glass measuring cup add the salsa, Caesar dressing, and lime juice and whisk until combined.

Step #6: Next, add all the salad ingredients to a bowl except for the dressing and chips and toss together.

Step #7: Finally, add your desired amount of Mexican Caesar dressing and top with crispy tortilla strips and enjoy!

FAQs

Storage Information

You can store leftovers of this Mexican Caesar Salad in an airtight container in your fridge. If the dressing is already on the salad it will last 1 day in the fridge. If the dressing is not on the salad it will last 3-4 days in your fridge. The dressing will last for 4-5 days in your fridge in an airtight container.

More Salad Recipes You Will Love

• Grinder Salad
• Curry Chicken Salad
• Mango Salad
• Italian Chopped Salad

This Italian Grinder Salad is simply life changing! It’s a salad that has more ingredients than it does lettuce. It is slam packed with meats, cheeses, veggies, and spices coated in a delicious and creamy homemade dressing. It is everything you love about the Italian Grinder Sandwich without the bread.

A grinder sandwich is a classic Italian sub sandwich. But the reality is that all the flavor is on the inside! So I thought, why not make it into a salad? If you love Italian inspired salads then you will also love my Italian Chopped Salad and my Italian Pasta Salad.

Why I Love This Salad

• This recipe comes together in only 15 minutes!
• It tastes just like a Grinder Sandwich but with no bread, which means less carbs and completely guilt free.
• This recipe is gluten-free!

Recipe Ingredients

Mayo – The perfect base to create a delicious creamy dressing for this Grinder salad.

Italian Meats and Cheeses – Flavor packed salad with all of the deli meats and cheeses that really makes it feel like you’re eating a sandwich.

Banana Peppers/Pepperoncini Peppers – Adds in a small kick of spice to the dish.

For a full list of ingredients and amounts see the recipe card below.

Step #1: In a small bowl combine all of the dressing ingredients and whisk together until combined. Then place in the fridge to chill until you are ready to serve.

Step #2: In a large mixing bowl combine all of the salad ingredients and toss together.

Step #3: Next, pour half of the prepared Grinder salad dressing onto the salad and toss together. Leave the other half on the side for serving.

Step #4: Finally top with red pepper flakes and additional dressing if you desire, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Balance Textures: To add more texture to the salad, consider including some crunchy elements such as croutons, toasted pine nuts, or even some crispy bacon bits. These will contrast nicely with the soft cheese and tender meats.

Marinate Onions: To soften the sharpness of the red onions, you can marinate them in jar combined with vinegar, water, and a pinch of sugar and oregano for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

FAQs

Storage Information

You can store this Grinder Salad in an airtight container in your fridge for 2-3 days. Tip: If you haven’t added the dressing to the salad it can stay fresh for 3-4 days.

More Delicious Salad Recipes

• Italian Pasta Salad
• Curry Chicken Salad
• Broccoli Salad
• Mexican Three Bean and Three Pepper Salad
• Tagliatelle al Ragù

If you haven’t tried this broccoli salad yet, you’re in for a treat. It’s the perfect mix of crisp, crunchy, tangy, and creamy. What I love most is how every forkful offers something a little different. Plus, it’s a hit with the kids—they love the little surprises in each bite, from the sweet cranberries to the crispy bacon.

I appreciate salads that go beyond the usual lettuce, expanding the horizons of what a salad can be. If you enjoy this, you might also like my other recipes, Mango Salad, Korean Cucumber Salad, and 10 Minute Tomato and Walnut Salad!

Reasons to Love This Broccoli Salad

• Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• We love this recipe because the crisp texture of broccoli mixed with other fresh ingredients brings a satisfying crunch.
• The blend of fresh veggies, raisins, craisins, bacon, almond slivers, and a slightly sweet dressing is irresistibly tasty and gives a delightful mix of flavors.
• This easy broccoli salad is a healthy meal that is simple and quick to prepare, ready in just 20 minutes.

Recipe Ingredients

• Broccoli Florets: Adds a fresh, earthy flavor and a crunchy texture, forming the nutritious base of the salad.
• Cauliflower Florets: Complements broccoli with its mild, slightly nutty taste.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon pieces infuse a savory, smoky flavor, creating a rich contrast to the fresh vegetables.
• Dressing (Mayonnaise, White Vinegar, Granulated Sugar): Binds the ingredients with its creamy texture, while the sweetness and acidity balance the flavors.

For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.

Variations

• Dietary Variation: Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt to lighten it up a bit while keeping that creamy goodness. For a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt. Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you want to cut back on fat, and for a vegetarian version, just skip the bacon altogether—it’s still packed with flavor and crunch!
• Nut Alternatives: Try using various nuts like walnuts or pecans to bring out a richer flavor and delightful crunch.
• Garnish Options: Freshly chopped parsley or dill brightens up the flavors, while a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan brings a savory touch. And for a bit more crunch, try tossing on some toasted sunflower seeds or extra almond slices.

Step #1: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, white vinegar, and granulated sugar for the dressing.

Step #2: Next, in a large salad bowl, mix together all the salad ingredients.

Step #3: Then, pour the dressing onto the salad and mix well.

Step #4: Chill in the fridge for 1 hour before serving, allowing the dressing to infuse the salad with flavor.

Step #5: Finally, serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Broccoli and Cauliflower Preparation: Cut the broccoli and cauliflower florets into bite-sized pieces for easier eating and better dressing coverage.
• Bacon Cooking: Cook bacon until it’s crispy to add a rich, smoky flavor and crunchy texture.
• Toasting Almonds: Toast whole or sliced almonds lightly to bring out their natural oils and enhance their nutty flavor.
• Dressing Mixture: Mix the dressing ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring that the sugar is completely dissolved to ensure a consistent, smooth texture and flavor.
• Chilling Time: Allow the salad to chill sufficiently to let the flavors meld together.

FAQs

Storage info

Store broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for freshness. It’s best to avoid freezing, as it can make the broccoli and other ingredients mushy and lose their crisp texture upon thawing.

More Delicious Recipes That You Will Love

• Curry Chicken Salad
• Italian Pasta Salad
• Kale and Wild Rice Salad
• Jerusalem Salad
• Mexican Three Bean and Three Pepper Salad

Do you know how some salads just have a way of transporting you directly to the beautiful countryside in Italy? That’s exactly what this Italian Chopped Salad does! It’s like each ingredient tells a story of traditional Italian flavors. Every bite takes you on a mini vacation, making you feel the warm Italian sun and the gentle Mediterranean breezes.

I love a salad like this one that is packed with flavor. Other recipes like this you have to try are my Kale and Wild Rice Salad, 10 Minute Veggie Ribbon Salad, and Vietnamese Chicken and Cabbage Salad.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Italian Chopped Salad has a vibrant mix of colors and flavors that visually and gastronomically pleases.
• The ingredients represent a genuine taste of traditional Italian cuisine.
• This recipe is versatile and perfect for a main or side dish.
• We love this Italian salad because it’s wholesome and satisfying.

Recipe Ingredients

• Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and mildly sweet, Romaine adds freshness and crunch, forming the salad’s base.
• Kalamata Olives: These olives add a bold, salty flavor that contrasts well with the fresh, crisp ingredients.
• Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas): Nutty and creamy, Chickpeas add protein and substance.
• Grape Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, these tomatoes add a burst of freshness.
• Cucumber: Offering a cool, hydrating crunch, Cucumber balances the Italian chopped salad ingredients.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Variations

• Crunch Factor: Add homemade croutons to the salad for an extra crunch. This enhances texture, making each bite more satisfying and delightful.
• Lettuce and Radicchio Mix: Replace the romaine lettuce with iceberg lettuce and radicchio for a varied texture and a slightly peppery flavor.
• Tomato Twist: Opt for cherry tomatoes rather than grape tomatoes to infuse the salad with a slightly sweeter and juicier flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Replace pearl mozzarella balls with provolone cheese, introducing a more tangy flavor.
• Herb and Dressing Fusion: Elevate the salad with fresh basil for an herbal aroma and refreshing taste. Enhance the Italian Vinaigrette by blending in Dijon mustard, adding a zestier, vibrant twist.

Step #1: In a large bowl, combine the dressing ingredients and whisk them together well.

Step #2: In a large salad bowl, add the lettuce and all the toppings on top. Do not add the salad dressing until you are ready to serve.

Step #3: When ready to serve, add ½ cup of the Italian Dressing to the salad and toss everything together. Serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Dressing Mastery: Prepare the dressing ahead of time for the flavors to blend.
• Crispy Lettuce: Ensure the lettuce is dry before chopping. Too much moisture can thin out the dressing and result in a soggy salad.
• Mindful Mixing: Gently toss the salad after adding the dressing. This makes sure every part gets coated evenly, taking care not to damage the softer ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Info

Storing your Italian chopped salad is easy and convenient for maintaining its freshness and flavor. It’s best to store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, use a Mason jar to store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients until you’re ready to consume it. This will help in retaining the crispiness of the vegetables.

More Delicious Recipes That You Will Love

• Italian Pasta Salad
• Curry Chicken Salad
• Easy Asian Lettuce Wraps
• Korean Cucumber Salad
• 30-Minute Tuscan White Bean Skillet

What is Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad?

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad, also known as Oi Muchim, is a popular Korean side dish (banchan) known for its refreshing, crunchy texture and spicy, tangy flavor. It is typically made with cucumbers that are thinly sliced and then seasoned with a mixture of Korean red chili flakes (gochugaru), garlic, sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Sometimes green onions and sesame seeds are added for extra flavor and texture.

Spicy Lovers, This Recipe is For You!

This Korean cucumber salad recipe is not for the faint-hearted when it comes to spice. When I tell you it packs a punch, it PACKS A PUNCH!

I made the mistake of taking this recipe to a friend, who I forgot was not a fan of spice, and I may have laughed a little too much when she started coughing after taking a bite from how spicy this dish is. Don’t worry, she is fine now, and I actually made my Banoffee Pie and took it over to her, because what says “I’m sorry” more than pie?

Reasons to Love This Cucumber Salad

• Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is my go-to for a refreshing, crunchy side that pairs perfectly with just about any dish.
• I love how the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad recipe is quick and easy—ideal for those busy weeknight dinners.
• With just a few fresh ingredients, the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad recipe is both healthy and satisfying.

Recipe Ingredients

• Korean Red Pepper Powder: Adds a spicy kick with a smoky, slightly sweet flavor, essential for the bold, fiery taste that defines this salad.
• Rice Wine Vinegar: Gives the salad that refreshing, zesty kick that balances out the spice perfectly.
• Sesame Oil: This adds a warm, nutty richness to the salad.

For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.

Variations

• Cucumber Varieties: For this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad, I usually go with Persian cucumbers because of their smaller size and perfect crunch. English cucumbers, Kirby cucumbers, or Japanese cucumbers are also great substitutes.

• Korean Red Pepper Powder: If you can’t find Korean red pepper powder, no worries—you can easily swap in chipotle chili powder for a smoky kick, cayenne pepper for extra heat, or a mix of paprika and cayenne for something milder. And if you’d rather stick to the classic, you can always grab Korean gochugaru (red pepper spice) on Amazon.

Step #1: Add the cucumbers into a large bowl and coat them in the rice wine vinegar and sea salt. Mix together and let it marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Step #2: While it is marinating, prepare the dressing by mixing all ingredients together in a small bowl.

Step #4: Return the cucumbers to the clean bowl and add them to the dressing, ensuring all the cucumbers are well coated.

Step #5: Finally, serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Drain Off Excess Liquid: Cucumbers hold a lot of water, so it’s important to remove excess moisture after salting to prevent the salad from becoming watery. The salting process also enhances the crunchiness of the cucumbers. Just be careful not to squeeze or bruise them to preserve their crisp texture.
• Slice Cucumbers Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer to ensure all cucumber slices are of equal thickness. This helps them marinate evenly and maintain a consistent crunch.

FAQs

Storage Info

You can store Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. However, keep in mind that the longer it sits, the less crisp the cucumbers will be. It’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the ideal texture.

Other Delicious Cucumber Salads

• East African Mango and Cucumber Salad
• Thai Cucumber Salad
• Turkish Cucumber, Feta, and Tomato Salad

This Curry Chicken Salad with Grapes recipe is so easy to make and so good! Trust me, if you like curry, you will love this recipe!

This Chicken Curry Salad with Grapes recipe is a great way to use up any leftover cooked chicken you have, as long as it isn’t heavily seasoned – like lemon-pepper seasoned chicken – since that would impact the flavors of this recipe.

Reasons to Love This Curry salad

• Its unique blend of spices offers a delightful taste experience.
• Chicken Curry Grape Salad is a versatile dish, perfect for various occasions.
• It’s a refreshing twist on traditional classic chicken salad.

Recipe Ingredients

• Curry Powder: Offers a warm, aromatic, and slightly spicy taste.
• Honey: It adds a subtle sweetness, balancing the spice of the curry.
• Lime Juice: Provides a refreshing, tangy contrast and adds brightness and zing.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Variations

• Cashew Alternative: Add almond slivers for a sweet crunch, contrasting the creamy base of your curry salad. Pecans introduce a buttery texture and depth. Walnuts offer a robust, earthy flavor.
• Add-Ins Variation: Introduce dried cranberries for tartness, chopped apples for crispness, golden raisins for subtle sweetness, and serve with crackers for added crunch.
• Herbs and Spice Variation: Add cumin or coriander for warmth, cilantro or parsley for freshness, and consider cayenne for heat, turmeric for earthiness, cinnamon for sweetness, and garlic powder for depth.

Step #1: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, curry powder, honey, lime juice, and salt.

Step #2: Add in the cooked and shredded chicken, celery, grapes, and scallions, and toss to combine.

Step #3: Cover with plastic wrap and set in the refrigerator to chill until you are ready to serve.

Step #4: When you are ready to serve, stir in the cashews and enjoy!

More Ways to Serve Chicken Salad

• Sandwiches: Grab your favorite sandwich bread or a croissant. Fill it with this salad, add lettuce if you want, and voilà, you have a great curry chicken salad sandwich for home or to go.
• Wraps: Fill a tortilla, pita, or thin flatbread with this curry chicken salad, add lettuce if you want, and you have a tasty wrap.
• Lettuce Wraps: Want a lighter wrap? If so, then use lettuce leaves instead of bread, fill them with the chicken salad, roll up, and enjoy this gluten-free version.
• On Greens: Top a lettuce salad or a mixed greens salad with this curried chicken salad for a lighter, but still delicious, gluten-free meal.

Expert Tips

• Chicken Preparation: For a more tender and flavorful chicken, consider poaching the chicken breasts in lightly salted water or chicken broth before shredding.
• Grape Selection: Use a mix of red and green seedless grapes for a visually appealing and slightly varied taste profile in the salad.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance without the cashews. Then, add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Info

Store the Chicken Curry Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 3-4 days.

If you’ve stored it in the fridge, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

More Delicious Recipes That You’ll Love

• Easy Asian Lettuce Wraps
• Roasted Curry Cashews
• Thai Cashew Chicken
• Italian Chopped Salad
• Tomato Cucumber Feta Salad
• Vegan Chickpea Curry

What is Pasta Salad?

Pasta salad is a dish typically made by combining cooked and cooled pasta with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats, cheeses, and a dressing, usually vinaigrette or mayonnaise-based.

It’s often served cold or at room temperature, making it a popular choice for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, and casual gatherings.

Reasons to Love This Pasta Salad

• Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoni is ideal for meal prepping; it stays fresh and tastes even better the next day.
• This side dish brings together fresh vegetables and savory pepperoni, making it a go-to for a balanced meal.
• This pasta salad recipe is a breeze to whip up, perfect for busy days, last-minute gatherings, or potlucks.

Recipe Ingredients

• Pepperoni Slices: It adds that bold, spicy kick with a chewy texture, making the salad hearty and flavorful.
• Salami: Rich, salty, and tangy, salami brings a firm texture and meaty depth.
• Mozzarella Cheese Balls: Creamy and mild, they add a soft, smooth texture that balances the zesty and tangy flavors.

For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.

Variations

• Herbs and Spice Variation: Toss in extra fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness, and a little crushed red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of heat if you’re in the mood for a kick. A dash of smoked paprika also adds a subtle smokiness.
• Veggie Medley: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables to add extra color and crunch. Some great options include cucumbers, carrots, or artichoke hearts. Just be sure to choose veggies that complement the existing flavors and textures.

How To Make Italian Pasta Salad

Step #5: Add pepperoni, salami, tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, green bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and basil, and stir everything together.

Step #7: Serve and enjoy!

Dietary Variations

• Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. I am not gluten-free, but I love Banza pasta. There’s also gluten-free Barilla pasta, which is another great alternative.
• Non-Dairy: For non-dairy diets, be sure to remove the mozzarella balls and replace the mayonnaise in the dressing with a non-dairy mayo or your preferred mayo substitute.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: If you are on a vegetarian diet, simply remove the pepperoni and salami. For a vegan diet, remove these along with the mozzarella balls, replace the mayonnaise with your preferred substitute, and you’re all set!

Expert Tips

• Shake Up the Dressing: Use a mason jar with a lid to mix the dressing. A good shake ensures everything is well-combined.
• Season the Pasta Water: Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water before cooking the pasta. This enhances the pasta’s flavor, making the salad more delicious.

FAQs

Storage Info

To store the Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoni, just pop it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The dressing keeps well in a jar for up to a week, so you can make it ahead.

This salad is perfect for prepping in advance, and the flavors only get better over time. Freezing isn’t the best option, as it can affect the texture, and I wouldn’t recommend reheating. Instead, enjoy it cold or let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving.

More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love

• Italian Chopped Salad
• Greek Chicken Pasta in 20 Minutes
• No Boil Pasta Bake
• Tuscan Chicken Skillet
• Crockpot Barbacoa Beef
• Sweet and Spicy Pulled Pork