Southwest Salad Recipe

Wash and dry the romaine lettuce. Chop or tear into bite-size pieces to total about 6 cups. Transfer to a large salad bowl or individual serving bowls.

If using cherry tomatoes, halve them to yield about 1 cup. If using larger tomatoes, dice to about 1 cup.

If using fresh corn, cut kernels off the cob. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry. Measure 1 cup.

Drain and rinse the canned black beans in a fine-mesh strainer; let drain well for 1–2 minutes.

Thinly slice or finely dice red onion to equal about 1/4 cup. If you want milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes then drain.

Slice the avocado in half, remove pit, scoop out flesh and cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Toss gently with a squeeze of lime (about 1/2 tsp) to slow browning.

Chop cilantro (if using) and set aside.

Combine base

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth.

Add liquids and seasonings

Whisk in 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk), 1 tsp minced chipotle pepper, 1/2 tsp adobo sauce, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp honey or agave if using. Taste and adjust heat by adding a bit more minced chipotle (in 1/4 tsp increments) or thin with additional milk to reach desired consistency.

If you prefer an ultra-smooth dressing, pulse the mixture once or twice in a small blender or use an immersion blender for 5–10 seconds. Chill the dressing for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld (can be made up to 24 hours ahead).

Add the halved tomatoes, corn, black beans, and red onion to the bowl with the chopped romaine. Toss gently to combine.

Top the salad with the diced avocado and chopped cilantro.

Drizzle the chipotle ranch over the salad — start with about 3–4 tablespoons for a large bowl (adjust to taste) — or serve dressing on the side.

Sprinkle optional cotija or feta cheese and tortilla strips/chips on top for texture, if using.

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for extra brightness.