Easy BBQ Chopped Salad Recipe

If you haven’t yet thrown together a BBQ Chopped Salad Recipe, you’re in for a treat. I recently whipped this up and let me tell you, it’s the perfect mix of smoky, creamy, and crisp.

This dish brings together fresh greens, hearty beans, sweet corn, all jazzed up with a tangy BBQ ranch dressing.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or just spice up your weekday meals, this salad has got you covered. Dive into how you can create this flavorful explosion in your own kitchen.

What is BBQ Chopped Salad Recipe?

A BBQ chopped salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the smoky taste of BBQ sauce with fresh, crisp vegetables. Typically, this salad includes a mix of chopped romaine lettuce, black beans, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, all tossed together.

Avocado adds a creamy texture, while a sprinkle of cilantro brings a burst of freshness. The salad is often dressed with a combination of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing, creating a unique, tangy flavor profile. Crunchy tortilla strips or chips top the salad for added texture. This version doesn’t include chicken, making it a great option for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter meal.

What does a BBQ Chopped Salad Recipe Contain?

A chopped salad typically contains a variety of ingredients, all chopped into bite-sized pieces to ensure each forkful is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Here’s a list of common components you might find in a chopped salad:

1. Greens: Romaine, iceberg, spinach, or a mix of your favorite leafy vegetables.
2. Proteins: Grilled chicken, turkey, bacon, or hard-boiled eggs.
3. Cheeses: Crumbled blue cheese, feta, or shredded cheddar.
4. Vegetables: Cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, and red onions.
5. Legumes: Chickpeas or black beans for added protein and fiber.
6. Fruits: Avocado or dried cranberries for a sweet and creamy or tart contrast.
7. Crunch: Croutons, tortilla strips, or nuts like almonds or walnuts.
8. Dressing: Anything from a classic vinaigrette to a creamy ranch or a zesty Caesar.

Chopped salads are great because they’re super customizable, so you can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

How to Make BBQ Chopped Salad Recipe

This BBQ chopped salad is a fresh and smoky delight perfect for any occasion. It features a base of crisp romaine lettuce, combined with sweet grilled corn, hearty black beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and sharp red onion.

Fresh cilantro and creamy diced avocado enhance the flavors, while crunchy tortilla strips add a pleasing texture. The salad is dressed in a tangy mix of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing, offering a perfect balance of zest and creaminess.

Here’s a streamlined guide to crafting a BBQ chopped salad, tailored to focus on grilling the veggies for an extra smoky flavor.

Step by Step Instructions:

Prep the veggies: Wash and chop romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, dice red onion, and chop cilantro. Set aside.

Grill the corn: Brush corn cobs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove, let cool, then slice off the kernels.

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and lime juice until well combined.

Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, black beans, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Toss with half the dressing.

Add the avocado and tortilla strips: Gently mix in diced avocado and sprinkle tortilla strips on top. Serve with extra dressing on the side.

TIP: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the dressing. It enhances the smoky taste that pairs wonderfully with the grilled corn and BBQ elements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the BBQ chopped salad is more than just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of textures and flavors that can brighten up any meal. It marries the smokiness of grilled corn with the freshness of crisp vegetables and the richness of avocado, all brought together by a tangy BBQ ranch dressing.

This salad proves that you don’t need to compromise on taste to enjoy something that’s also nutritious and satisfying. Served as a hearty lunch or as a side at your next barbecue, it’s sure to be a hit.

The addition of tortilla strips provides that final crunch, making every bite as delightful as the last. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this BBQ chopped salad is a standout recipe that effortlessly fits into any culinary repertoire.