The Loco Side Salad from El Pollo Loco features fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, shredded cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing for a vibrant and refreshing side.
Equipments
- Salad bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Salad tongs or serving spoon
- Grater (for cheese)
- Small mixing bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk (for dressing)
- Measuring spoons
- Salad spinner (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup tortilla strips
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh mixed greens should be crisp and thoroughly washed, ideally using a salad spinner to remove excess moisture for a better dressing consistency. Use ripe grape tomatoes for their natural sweetness, and slice cucumbers thinly to maintain a balanced crunch. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture, so freshly grated cheese is recommended for optimal flavor. Opt for crunchy tortilla strips that remain crisp and are not stale, as they provide a key texture contrast. You can recreate the vibrant, zesty lime dressing and fresh ingredients to enjoy the Loco Side Salad from El Pollo Loco copycat menu at home.
Instructions
- Wash and dry mixed greens using a salad spinner (optional).
- Place mixed greens in a salad bowl.
- Peel cucumber if desired; slice into rounds.
- Halve grape tomatoes.
- Add sliced cucumber and halved tomatoes to the bowl with mixed greens.
- Shred cheddar cheese using a grater.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the salad.
- Top salad with tortilla strips.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk dressing ingredients until emulsified.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad.
- Toss salad gently using tongs or a serving spoon to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Loco Side Salad from El Pollo Loco copycat menu can be easily customized with substitutions based on what you have available in your kitchen. If fresh lime juice is not accessible, lemon juice or a mild vinegar can provide a similar tangy brightness for the dressing. You can swap shredded cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. When tortilla strips are unavailable, crushed tortilla chips or baked pita chips work well to maintain the salad's signature crunch. Remember to adjust seasoning to your taste preferences when making these ingredient swaps.
Tips
Ensure your mixed greens are thoroughly dried after washing to prevent a watery salad, which can dilute the zesty lime dressing's flavor. When slicing cucumbers and halving tomatoes, keep uniform sizes to achieve an even texture and balanced bite in each serving. Whisk the lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until fully emulsified to create a smooth dressing that clings well to the salad ingredients. Add the tortilla strips last to maintain their crunchy texture, as they tend to soften quickly once combined with the dressing.
Nutritions
The Loco Side Salad from El Pollo Loco provides a nutrient-rich combination of fresh mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes that deliver essential vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese contributes calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Crunchy tortilla strips add carbohydrates for energy, while the zesty lime dressing made with olive oil supplies heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This vibrant salad offers a balanced nutrient profile perfect for complementing your meal.
Storage
Store the Loco Side Salad in an airtight container to maintain the freshness of the mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Keep the shredded cheddar cheese and tortilla strips separate in smaller containers to prevent sogginess. Your dressing should be refrigerated in a sealed jar and added just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap the mixed greens with baby spinach or arugula for a peppery twist that complements the zesty lime dressing. Replace the cheddar cheese with crumbled queso fresco or cotija for a tangy, authentic Mexican flavor. You can toast the tortilla strips lightly in a dry skillet to enhance their crunch before topping your salad. Consider adding sliced avocado for creamy texture and extra nutrients to make your Loco Side Salad more satisfying.
Allergies
Your Loco Side Salad from El Pollo Loco contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese, which may trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. The tortilla strips could contain gluten if made from wheat, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Additionally, the salad includes honey and fresh lime juice, which are generally safe but may cause reactions in rare cases of specific fruit or pollen allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Loco Side Salad from El Pollo Loco is popular for its fresh, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and zesty dressing that perfectly complements grilled chicken dishes. People appreciate the salad's balance of flavors and its low-calorie, nutrient-rich profile, making it a satisfying yet guilt-free side option. You can replicate this salad at home using fresh ingredients and a tangy citrus dressing to enjoy a healthy and delicious complement to your meals. Making the copycat version allows you to customize the freshness and flavor intensity to match your personal tastes while saving money.