Seven Layer Southwestern Salad Question

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad, with participants sharing their experiences and preferences regarding ingredients, particularly the use of ranch dressing and variations in the recipe.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, suggests that ranch dressing seems fitting for the salad but is unsure if it is necessary.
  • Another participant shares their experience of making the salad with salsa and sour cream, noting that it is flavorful without ranch dressing.
  • Some participants inquire about the specific amounts of sour cream and salsa used, with one mentioning a different quantity seen in another post.
  • One participant mentions using romaine lettuce instead of the salad mix and prefers to prepare it fresh at shows.
  • Several users express that they enjoy adding corn to the salad, with one noting it was not in the original recipe.
  • One participant mentions that the salad is substantial and considers adding chicken or beef for added heartiness.
  • Another participant states they always add chicken and enjoy the salad as a wrap with leftovers.
  • Some participants agree that the salad is delicious as is and do not feel ranch dressing is necessary.
  • One participant suggests the possibility of mixing ranch with salsa as an alternative dressing option.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the necessity of ranch dressing, with some participants feeling it is not needed while others consider it as an option. There is no clear consensus on the exact amounts of sour cream and salsa to use.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from cooking shows and home preparations, highlighting variations in ingredients and methods.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on variations of the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad and personal experiences related to its preparation and serving.

J
jesusluvsu2005
Messages
386
My second host just picked this as her recipe. Has anyone ever used any ranch dressing in this? It just seems to scream ranch at me but maybe that's just me. Anyone tried it themselves? Any changes made? Thanks!
God bless,
Amanda

Seven-Layer Southwestern Salad
2 cups chopped, cooked chicken
1 ½ cups sour cream
¾ cup thick and chunky salsa
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 large green bell pepper, diced
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
½ cup thinly sliced green onions with tops
1 package (16 ounces) iceberg lettuce salad mix (10 cups)
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
1 ½ cups corn chips (optional)

1. In Small Batter Bowl, combine sour cream and salsa; mix well and
Set aside
2. Drain and rinse beans using large Colander. Using Chef’s Knife,
Dice bell pepper and tomatoes; thinly slice green onions. Layer beans, bell pepper, lettuce, tomatoes and green onions in Simple Additions Large Bowl
3. Spoon sour cream mixture over top using Small Mix ‘N Scraper
Spreading evenly. Grate cheese over top using Deluxe Cheese Grater. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with corn chips, if desired, and serve


***To make a heartier salad, add 2 cups cooked diced chicken between the bean layer and the bell pepper layer.
 
I did this in my trifle bowl at a bunch of shows last summer. It is really good. You don't really need to add ranch (but I'm sure it would be tasty) because the salsa and sour cream make a great dressing on their own.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Do you add these exact amounts of sour cream and salsa or do you add a little more? I saw another post on here when I did a search that mentioned 16 oz of sour cream and a whole jar of salsa. Anyone use different amounts? Thanks so much! I just want to make sure I get it right. :)
God bless,
Amanda
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Also, does anyone know about how many servings this makes? Has anyone used a head of lettuce cut up instead of the mix? Thanks so much!
God bless,
Amanda
 
I use romaine for mine, and chop it at the show, and spin it dry in the Salad Spinner!

It doesn't need Ranch - it is so good the way it is! I make more dressing than called for in the recipe, but pour part of it into a small SA bowl for people to add themselves.

This is my favorite Salad Demo, and also a favorite of ours at home! Sometimes I add a layer of sweet corn to it.
 
I always add corn, I forgot that it wasn't in the original recipe. I like the idea of having the extra dressing on the side. I think it could be too much if you add more to the salad.
 
Shana - what order did you put it in the trifle bowl & do you have a pic?
 
I don't think it needs ranch either. I guess you could put ranch dressing in it instead of the sour cream and salsa. Or maybe do the ranch dressing mixed with salsa instead of sour cream. Never thought about that.
 
Corn would be a good addition to this! Thanks for the tip---love this salad:thumbup:
 
This salad is so good and so BIG!!!! I was thinking that adding chicken or beef would be yummy!!!!
 
chefkristin said:
This salad is so good and so BIG!!!! I was thinking that adding chicken or beef would be yummy!!!!
Click to expand...
To borrow Shana's post and make it my own:

I always add chicken to this - I forgot it wasn't in the original recipe....



:D


Just got back from an interactive show demoing this recipe....it's so yummy!

Oh - and if you have leftovers - it makes a great wrap sandwich!:thumbup:
 
Yes, I always add chicken too---yummy!
 
I was looking at that and thinking "I don't remember it having chicken in it"...LOL I haven't made it in awhile, but I absolutely love this salad. Big hit at shows!! I like the sc and salsa dressing, so I don't think I would use ranch, but I don't see why you couldn't substitute it...or leave the dressing on the side and offer a choice. I like to make extra sc and salsa dressing too. Never thought about adding corn, but it sounds good. I think I will make this for dinner tomorrow...and add the chicken. I might use Blue and Gold chicken strips...yummy.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad?

The Seven Layer Southwestern Salad typically includes ingredients such as romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese, and a dressing like ranch or a southwestern vinaigrette. You can also add ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

How do I layer the ingredients in the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad?

To layer the ingredients, start with a base of romaine lettuce at the bottom of a clear serving dish. Then, add each subsequent layer in the following order: black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese, and finally, drizzle the dressing on top. This presentation allows each layer to be visible and visually appealing.

Can I make the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad ahead of time. However, it's best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. You can layer the salad in a container and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

What can I substitute for ingredients in the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad?

If you need to make substitutions, you can replace black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas, and corn can be swapped for diced bell peppers. For a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether. You can also customize the dressing to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Is the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the Seven Layer Southwestern Salad is great for meal prep. You can portion out the layers into individual containers, keeping the dressing separate until ready to eat. This makes it easy to grab a healthy lunch or snack throughout the week.

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