Looking for a hearty, fresh, and colorful way to celebrate Taco Tuesday? This Beautiful Taco Salad is a full-flavor experience that brings together protein, fiber, and brightness in every bite. It’s a satisfying meal that’s as wholesome as it is visually stunning.
Featuring juicy shredded protein (your choice—chicken, beef, pork, or plant-based), warm whole pinto beans, fluffy white rice, fresh pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of cilantro, this salad is layered with love and designed for flavor-forward balance.
🌿 Why We Love It
- Colorful & nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and plant-powered ingredients.
- Customizable: Works with your favorite protein—shredded rotisserie chicken, slow-cooked carnitas, or vegan jackfruit.
- Taco-inspired: All the best taco ingredients, served bowl-style for a light, clean meal.
- Great for prep: Build a batch and enjoy it all week.
🥗 Taco Salad with Shredded Protein, Pinto Beans, Pico & Rice
Serves 2
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded protein (e.g. chicken, beef, pork, tofu, or jackfruit)
- 1 cup cooked whole pinto beans
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 cups romaine or spring greens, chopped
- ½ cup sliced avocado or guacamole
- Optional toppings: lime wedges, jalapeños, hot sauce, shredded cheese, crushed tortilla strips
Instructions
- Build the base: In large salad bowls, layer chopped greens as the foundation.
- Add rice & beans: Spoon white rice and whole pinto beans evenly over each bowl.
- Layer the protein: Add your warm, seasoned shredded protein of choice.
- Top with pico & cilantro: Scatter fresh pico de gallo over the top and garnish generously with chopped cilantro.
- Finish with flair: Add avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole. Drizzle with lime juice or hot sauce if desired.
🌮 Pair It With
Clean Tequila Soda with Lemon & Rosemary
