This salad is simple — open a few cans, slice some veggies, mash up some avocado, and you’re good to go! It’s a recipe I fall back on when I need a quick meal, want something lite and fresh, or simply don’t want to turn on my stove. It’s also really delicious and satisfying. The avocado lime crema is a game-changer. And it’s really easy to make. You can also add it to tacos and burrito bowls — really anything that can use a creamy, fresh zing!

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 1/2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

• 3/4 cup black beans, rinsed

• 1/4 cup corn, rinsed

• 1/4 cup red onion, diced

• 1/4 cup radish, thinly sliced

• 2 Tbsp cilantro

• 1 oz cotija cheese

AVOCADO LIME CREMA

• 1/4 cup yogurt, greek, plain, whole milk

• 1/4 avocado

• juice from 1/2 lime

• a splash of water

• kosher salt

INSTRUCTIONS 

MAKING THE AVOCADO LIME CREMA

In a small bowl, mash avocado and blend with lime juice and a pinch or two of salt; add yogurt and thoroughly mix.

Stir in a splash of water (1 Tbsp or so) and mix until dressing-like consistency is reached; set aside.

ASSEMBLING

In a large bowl, combine lettuce, beans, corn, and red onion. Top with dressing and gently toss to mix.

Plate and top with radish, cilantro, and crumbles cotija cheese; serve with fresh lime.

Notes

Use DF yogurt and cheese to make DF.

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This post was written by Kelly Powers, MA, RDN. Kelly is a Registered Dietitian and Culinary Nutritionist who takes a holistic approach to nutrition and health. She is a recipe developer with a food blog highlighting whole foods, simple recipes, and her life in San Francisco. Kelly is the creator of Weeknight Dinners, a weekly meal plan program that helps users get back in the kitchen and feed themselves well. Kelly specializes in meal planning, the Mediterranean diet, and sustainable behavior change, helping her clients reach their health goals while improving their relationship with food.