Vegan Dorito Taco Salad

Vegan Dorito Taco Salad is crispy, hot & has good taste. It makes tacos and chips fun and healthy plant-based food. This salad contains seasoned lentils, crunchy vegan Doritos, fresh veggies & creamy dressing. It may be had as a lunch, dinner /a party snack. It is colored, satiating & simple to prepare. The Vegan Dorito Taco Salad is a source of protein, fiber, and all the taco toppings of your choice. It tastes like fast food, yet it is healthy. It will be good even for meat lovers.

STATS:

• Diet: Vegan, Dairy-Free, Plant-Based
• Course: Salad, Main Dish
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American
• Time for prep: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Working time (total): 30 minutes
• Size/serving: 1 bowl
• Total yield: 4 servings
• Level of difficulty: Easy
• Mode of cooking: Stovetop

EQUIPMENT:

• Skillet or pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife & cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups & spoons

INGREDIENTS:

• One tablespoon of olive oil
• A cup of cooked lentils
• One tablespoon of vegan spice for tacos
• Four cups of chopped romaine lettuce
• Half a cup of cherry tomatoes
• One cup of drained canned corn
• A full cup of rinsed & drained canned black beans
• One diced avocado
• Half a cup of finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 a cup of cashew/vegan sour cream
• Two teaspoons of salsa
• Two tablespoons of lime juice
• One cup of vegan nacho chips, such as vegan Doritos, crushed
• To taste, add salt & pepper

INGREDIENTS NOTES:

Lentils:

• Lentils, such as brown/green, can be used. Additionally, tinned lentils can save time. As long as they are not mushy.

Taco Seasoning:

• Choose a taco seasoning that vegans like. You may create your own. Just mix paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin.

Vegan Doritos:

• Find dairy-free nacho-style chips at the store. A good selection of brands is available in vegan versions. Check the label to verify it.

Dressing:

• To make a quick dressing, combine vegan sour cream, salsa, and a dash of lime juice. You may as well use vegan ranch dressing or avocado dressing.

Add-ins:

• You can also add onion, olives, cucumbers, green peppers/whatever you fancy sprinkling on top to add some crunch, or diced tomatoes to give it extra flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a frying pan, heat the oil over a low flame
2. Add Mexican spice and lentils
3. Cook, stirring, till hot and seasoned, about 5 minutes
4. Take off the heat and let it cool a little
5. Add the crushed romaine lettuce to a large bowl
6. Add the avocado, red onion, black beans, corn, and cherry tomatoes
7. Top with the warm lentils seasoned with tacos
8. Combine the vegan sour cream, onion salsa, and lime juice in a small bowl
9. To create a creamy dressing, mix well
10. Drizzle the salad with the dressing
11. Gently toss to mix everything together
12. Just before serving, top with crushed vegan Doritos
13. Season with both pepper and salt
14. Serve quickly for optimal crunch

TIPS:

• To save time, use canned lentils.
• Include pickled jalapeños to give the dish a bite.
• Prepare individual bowls and allow everyone to add a topping of his or her choice.
• Add the zest of lime to add flavor.
• Otherwise, spread with a small amount of thinly grated cheese (optional).
• You can use kale or spinach in lieu of romaine.
• You can also make it creamier by doubling the dressing.

STORAGE INFORMATION:

FRIDGE:

• Keep the lentils and salad for at least two days in a sealed bag. Dress separately. Before using, stir. Just before eating, add the chips & avocado.

FREEZER:

• Not advised. When frozen, fresh vegetables and chips lose their texture.

FAQs:

Can I replace the lentils with something?

• Yes. You can opt to use vegan crumbles or tofu/chickpeas. Season them also the same way.

What if I lose my vegan Doritos?

• Any crunchy tortilla chips are to be used. Nacho flavored is ideal, yet plain or chili-lime do the trick.

Can this salad be meal-prepped?

• Yes. Just leave the dressing and the chips in separate dishes. Put them in when you are about to serve.

Is it feasible to make it oil-free?

• Yes. Do not use olive oil, but instead, heat the lentils with water. Even without oil, the dressing is good.

May I put it directly or not-toasted?

• Both! The lentils taste best when they are warm, but the whole can be refrigerated as well. It has a super taste.

Is the recipe gluten-free?

• It is when you use certified gluten-free chips and seasoning. To be sure, always read labels.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Calories: 310
Carbs: 34g
Total carbs: 34g
Calcium: 80mg
Protein: 11g
Serving size: 1 bowl
Sodium: 450mg
Serving: 4