Description
This Jalapeño Popper Salad offers a spicy and creamy twist on the classic appetizer by combining crisp fresh vegetables with bold jalapeño, smooth cream cheese, and tangy sour cream. Enhanced with crispy bacon, optional avocado, corn, and black beans, it’s a flavorful, crunchy, and refreshing salad perfect for a quick, vibrant side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 jalapeños, sliced
- 6 strips crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups fresh mixed vegetables (such as lettuce, tomatoes, and bell peppers), chopped
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the fresh vegetables, crumbled crispy bacon, optional avocado, corn, and black beans until well combined to create the base of the salad.
- Prepare the Jalapeño Dressing. In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine sliced jalapeños, softened cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth and creamy, ensuring the jalapeños are evenly distributed for consistent heat and flavor.
- Mix Dressing into Salad. Pour the jalapeño cream cheese dressing over the salad mixture and gently fold it in, taking care not to mash the ingredients, so the salad remains vibrant and textured.
- Garnish the Salad. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top and drizzle with fresh lime juice to add brightness and an herbal note that complements the spicy and creamy flavors.
- Chill Before Serving. Refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity according to your preferred heat level—remove seeds for milder spice.
- The optional ingredients like avocado, corn, and black beans add extra texture and nutrition but can be omitted for a simpler salad.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a hearty appetizer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; freshen with a squeeze of lime before serving again.
