Sep 06 2026
RestaurantsMexican ConnectionFajita Salad Recipe

Fajita Salad Recipe

Inspired by Mexican Connection
Time40m
Serves2

Black beans, fresh greens, grilled onions and peppers, your choice of fajita chicken, steak or shrimp, guacamole and cheese and your choice of balsamic or chili vinaigrette

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Ingredients

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Salad Base

Method

Prepare Protein

  1. 1

    Marinate

    If using chicken, steak, or shrimp, place the chosen protein in a bowl. Add lime juice (2 tbs), minced garlic (1 tsp), 1 tbs olive oil, and 1 tsp fajita seasoning. Toss to coat, cover, and let marinate 15–30 minutes (shrimp 10–15 minutes).

  2. 2

    Cook

    Heat a large skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of oil if using a skillet. For chicken (12 oz thin slices): cook 3–5 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). For steak (12 oz thin slices): cook 2–4 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium, rest 5 minutes and slice thinly against the grain. For shrimp (12 oz): cook 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Transfer cooked protein to a plate and keep warm.

Sauté Vegetables

  1. 3

    While the protein rests (or if cooking simultaneously), in the same skillet add 2 tbs olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced yellow onion and bell peppers. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1 tsp chili powder. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and slightly charred, about 6–8 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Warm Beans & Prep Toppings

  1. 4

    Warm the drained black beans in a small saucepan over low heat (2–3 minutes) with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime if desired. Keep warm. Meanwhile, measure out the guacamole and shred the cheese if necessary. Slice jalapeño and lime wedges.

Assemble Salad

  1. 5

    Divide the mixed salad greens (6 cups) among 2 large bowls or plates. Evenly distribute cherry tomatoes and red onion over the greens. Arrange the warm sautéed peppers and onions on top.

  2. 6

    Add the warm black beans in a line or mound on each salad. Top with the cooked fajita protein of your choice, dividing evenly.

  3. 7

    Spoon guacamole (about 3/8 cup per serving) onto each salad, then sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Add sliced jalapeño if using and garnish with cilantro.

Dress & Serve

  1. 8

    Drizzle 2 tbs (about 1/8 cup) of your chosen dressing (balsamic vinaigrette or chili-lime vinaigrette) over each salad, or serve dressings on the side. Season with salt and pepper to taste and finish with a lime wedge per serving. Serve immediately while protein and vegetables are warm.

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