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Jalapeno Popper Salad: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 59 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Jalapeno Popper Salad is a fresh and spicy twist on the classic jalapeno popper appetizer. Combining crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy jalapeno dressing, it delivers a flavorful, crunchy salad perfect for gatherings or a zesty side dish. Optional additions like avocado, corn, and black beans add extra texture and depth, while fresh cilantro and lime juice give it a bright finish. Served chilled, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4-5 fresh jalapeños, diced
  • 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
  • 2 cups fresh vegetables (such as lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers), chopped
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup avocado, diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (for garnish and dressing)


Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, avocado (if using), corn, and black beans to create the base of the salad.
  2. Prepare Jalapeño Dressing: In a separate bowl, thoroughly blend the diced jalapeños with softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy, ensuring the flavors meld well.
  3. Mix Dressing into Salad: Pour the jalapeño cream cheese mixture over the salad ingredients and gently fold them together, coating everything evenly without crushing the vegetables.
  4. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the salad and drizzle with lime juice to add brightness and enhance the spicy flavors.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop and the salad to stay crisp and refreshing.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your preferred spice level.
  • The salad is best served chilled; keep refrigerated until just before serving.
  • You can substitute bacon with a vegetarian alternative to make it vegetarian-friendly.
  • For a creamier texture, add extra sour cream or cream cheese as desired.
  • This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone light dish.