Fajita Salad from El Torito features tender grilled strips of seasoned steak or chicken layered over fresh mixed greens, sauteed bell peppers, onions, and ripe tomatoes, all topped with shredded cheese and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing, delivering a vibrant blend of smoky, tangy, and crisp flavors.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Sauté pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Cheese grater
- Small whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad serving plates or bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) steak or chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1 large yellow bell pepper
- 1 large onion
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lime
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
Choose fresh, high-quality steak or chicken breast for the best flavor and tenderness in your fajita salad. Use a well-balanced fajita seasoning to ensure a smoky and slightly spicy taste that enhances the grilled meat and sauteed vegetables. Fresh mixed greens should be crisp and vibrant, and tomatoes must be ripe to add natural sweetness and juiciness. Prepare the cilantro-lime dressing using fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of honey to balance tanginess and sweetness while stirring thoroughly for a smooth texture. Your homemade Fajita Salad from El Torito copycat menu will capture the authentic flavors and colorful presentation of the original dish.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Slice steak or chicken into strips.
- Toss meat with 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Grill seasoned meat until cooked; set aside.
- Slice red and yellow bell peppers and onion.
- Sauté peppers and onion in a skillet until tender; set aside.
- Wash and dry salad greens (use salad spinner if available).
- Chop tomatoes.
- Grate cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Chop fresh cilantro.
- For dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, honey, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large salad bowl, layer salad greens, sautéed peppers and onions, and chopped tomatoes.
- Top with grilled steak or chicken strips.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Drizzle with cilantro-lime dressing.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Fajita Salad from El Torito copycat menu uses grilled strips of steak or chicken that you can easily substitute with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. If you lack a grill or grill pan, a broiler or cast-iron skillet works well to achieve a similar charred flavor. Fresh bell peppers and onions can be replaced with roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms depending on seasonality or preference. For the cilantro-lime dressing, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangier, healthier alternative without sacrificing creaminess. You can adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing fajita seasoning in both the meat and vegetables to tailor the dish perfectly to your taste.
Tips
When grilling steak or chicken, ensure strips are evenly sized for uniform cooking and to prevent over or undercooking. Use a sharp knife and cut the bell peppers, onions, and meat against the grain to enhance tenderness and flavor absorption. Washing and thoroughly drying mixed greens with a salad spinner prevents sogginess and maintains crispness in your fajita salad. Whisk the dressing ingredients well to blend flavors evenly, and add dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant for your enjoyment.
Nutritions
Fajita Salad from El Torito offers a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it a nutrient-dense meal option. The grilled steak or chicken provides a rich source of lean protein essential for muscle repair and energy. Bell peppers and tomatoes deliver vitamin C and antioxidants, while the mixed greens add fiber and essential vitamins like A and K. Your inclusion of olive oil and avocado-based dressing ensures heart-healthy monounsaturated fats complement the meal's overall micronutrient profile.
Storage
Keep leftover fajita salad components separate in airtight containers to maintain their texture and freshness; store grilled meat, sauteed vegetables, and dressing individually in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use a salad spinner or paper towels to thoroughly dry greens before refrigeration to prevent wilting. Before serving, combine ingredients and gently toss with dressing to keep your fajita salad crisp and flavorful.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled shrimp or portobello mushrooms for the steak or chicken to add a different texture and flavor profile. Try roasting the bell peppers and onions instead of sauteing them to bring out a smoky sweetness. For a lighter dressing option, replace mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt while maintaining the lime and cilantro notes. Adding avocado slices or black beans can enhance the salad's creaminess and nutritional value.
Allergies
The Fajita Salad from El Torito contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, which may cause reactions in those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The use of steak or chicken does not typically trigger allergies, but cross-contamination in preparation areas could be a concern for people with severe meat allergies. Be aware of potential sensitivities to bell peppers, onions, or garlic, as these ingredients can cause digestive issues or allergic responses in some individuals.
Why this recipe?
The Fajita Salad from El Torito features a vibrant combination of grilled marinated chicken or steak, fresh bell peppers, onions, and a crisp bed of romaine lettuce, delivering a perfect balance of smoky and tangy flavors. Its signature zesty dressing enhances the freshness, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal option. You'll find the dish appealing for its customizable protein options and the harmony of textures that create a wholesome experience. Recreating this copycat recipe allows you to enjoy the restaurant's taste at home, capturing the essence of El Torito's popular menu item.