Name: Frito Cowboy Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix; 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 ½ cups (247.5 g) canned corn kernels, drained; 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced; 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced; 3 green onions, finely sliced; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ cup (115 g) sour cream; ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise; ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo (just the sauce, not the peppers); 1 bag (9.75 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, reserving a handful for topping

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Introduction

The Frito Cowboy salad is a vibrant, crunchy dish packed with bold flavors and textures. Combining fresh vegetables, beans, and a smoky chipotle dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a unique side at your next gathering.

A close-up view of a white bowl full of a colorful layered salad featuring crispy orange Dorito chips scattered throughout. The salad is mixed with creamy shredded white cabbage, black beans, bright yellow corn kernels, small pieces of red tomatoes, and chopped green peppers. The textures vary from crunchy chips to soft beans and fresh vegetables, all coated lightly in a creamy dressing that adds a slight gloss. In the background on a white marbled surface, there is a halved lime and a blurry white bowl with a reddish sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ cups (247.5 g) canned corn kernels, drained
1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced
3 green onions, finely sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 bag (9.75 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, reserving a handful for topping
½ cup (115 g) sour cream
½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from canned chipotles in adobo, just the sauce

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, black beans, corn, jalapeño, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, taco seasoning, and ground cumin. Toss well to mix all the ingredients evenly.
Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chipotle sauce until smooth to create the chipotle dressing.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Add all but a handful of the Chili Cheese Fritos to the salad and mix gently to combine.
Step 5: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved handful of Fritos on top to add extra crunch.
Step 6: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a milder version, use less jalapeño or remove it entirely and add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor.
Substitute plain corn chips or tortilla strips if Chili Cheese Fritos aren’t available.
Add diced avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and color.
Make the dressing ahead and store separately to keep the Fritos crunchy until serving.

Storage

Store any leftover salad without the Fritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The Fritos should be kept separate and added just before serving to maintain their crunch. Reheat is not recommended as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a colorful salad served in a white bowl, placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has several layers including bright orange crunchy chips scattered throughout, a mix of yellow corn kernels, black beans, small pieces of red tomatoes, green chopped peppers, and shredded white cabbage. The texture is varied with crispy chips, soft beans, and fresh vegetables all mixed with a light creamy dressing that lightly coats the ingredients. A sliced lime is visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the Frito Cowboy salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad mixture and dressing separately a day in advance, then combine and add Fritos just before serving to keep them crisp.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! The Frito Cowboy salad contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians. Just ensure the taco seasoning and chipotle sauce you use do not contain any animal products.