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SALADS

(Ensaladas)

When people hear the words “Mexican salad,” the image that comes up may be the taco salad version, which was so popular when I was growing up in the ‘80s. The combination of shredded iceberg lettuce and ground beef in a greasy, deep-fried flour tortilla bowl was never my idea of fun. The salads in this chapter are antidotes to those taco salads of fast-food fame. The recipes I’ve included are lighter and have more of the wonderful flavor combinations that make Mexican cuisine so delicious.

Mexican salads are an excellent way to combine the fire-burning heat of chiles with the cool, crispness of fresh lettuce. The crunchy texture of the white roots in the Jícama Salad contrasted with the juicy bite of a tomato mingles well with the mouth-puckering lime juice. It’s the surprise of textures, the rich burst of flavors, and the explosion of colors that make salads so fun in Mexican cuisine.

Traditional ensaladas are eaten as side dishes in practically every meal, year-round in Mexico, because of its mild tropical weather. Tossing together fresh vegetables with lime, chili powder, or even cheese makes for a healthful dish to serve alongside meats wrapped in warm tortillas.

“Salad” is a bit of a misnomer in Mexican cuisine because even pico de gallo or guacamole can be considered a “salad” (vegetables tossed together with spices). For the sake of this book, though, I’m using the American way of thinking of salad, as a side dish, appetizer, or second course for a more elaborate meal.

These ensaladas are perfect for a lazy summer afternoon, when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. Whip up any of these easy recipes for a filling lunch or a light dinner. The Carne Asada Salad, for example, is a meal by itself and perfect for eating before your afternoon siesta. It can be dressed up to serve at a fancy dinner party or just eaten by itself as a delicious treat.

The Festive Corn Salad or Cactus Salad can be showstoppers for a potluck, or prepared in advance of a party. You’ll look like you’ve been slaving all day in the kitchen, but you didn’t even have to turn on the stove!