Description
This creamy Jalapeño Popper Salad blends the flavors of jalapeño poppers with fresh ingredients like crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and a zesty dressing. It’s a delightful side dish or light meal, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 4 cups of chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup of cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the diced jalapeños and set aside to let the flavors develop.
- In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color.
- Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top.
- Add the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad base, starting with half and adding more as needed.
- Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients without crushing them.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve any leftover dressing on the side.
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, keeping dressing separate if preparing ahead.
Notes
- For a milder salad, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Keep dressing separate to prevent wilting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes