Baja Salad Recipe
Make Baja Salad Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Salad
Protein (optional - Baja grilled shrimp)
Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing
Method
Salad
- 1
Prep vegetables
Rinse and dry the romaine lettuce, then chop or tear into bite-sized pieces to yield about 6 cups. Thinly slice the red cabbage, shred the carrot if not pre-shredded, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, thinly slice the green onions, and chop the cilantro. If using jalapeño in the salad, seed and mince it finely.
- 2
Assemble base
In a large bowl combine the chopped romaine, red cabbage, shredded carrot, corn kernels, black beans, cherry tomatoes, green onions and chopped cilantro. Gently fold to combine so ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 3
Add avocado and crunch
Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado and tortilla strips or chips so they stay crisp. Reserve lime wedges for serving.
Protein (optional - Baja grilled shrimp)
- 4
Marinate shrimp
In a medium bowl toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt and 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice. Let rest 10–15 minutes while you prepare the dressing and salad.
- 5
Cook shrimp
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil if using a skillet. Cook the shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred at the edges. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. If using grill, thread shrimp on skewers for easy handling.
- 6
Finish
When slightly cooled, scatter the shrimp over the assembled salad or serve on the side. Squeeze additional lime over the shrimp if desired.
Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing
- 7
Blend dressing
In a blender or food processor combine Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, packed cilantro, lime juice, honey, garlic clove, half a seeded jalapeño (if using), olive oil, salt and black pepper. Blend until smooth. If dressing is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons water and blend again to reach a pourable but creamy consistency.
- 8
Taste and adjust
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime juice or honey to balance acidity and sweetness. Chill briefly if not using immediately.
- 9