Turkey taco salad is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines lean, protein-rich turkey with fresh, crisp vegetables, and flavorful spices. It's a guilt-free indulgence that provides all the taste of traditional tacos without the extra calories and fat. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, turkey taco salad offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Try it for a wholesome and tasty twist on your usual salad routine!

Turkey Taco Salad
Level: Intermediate Prep: 45 minutes Yield: 4 servings
Total:  Inactive:  Serving Size: 4 oz|½ cup

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 4 ounces chopped yellow onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 ounces tomato paste
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon canola oil
  • 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 2 medium diced tomatoes
  • 8 ounces corn tortilla chips
  • 6 ounces cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans
  • 2 ounces green onions
  • 2 ounces black olives
  • 2 tablespoons salsa
  • 1 diced avocado
  • 1 teaspoon sour cream

Directions

  1. Brown turkey in a skillet, drain. Add onions and cook till clear, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add seasonings, tomato paste, and water. Bring to a boil, simmer 10 minutes.
  3. Layer a plate with tortilla chips, lettuce and tomatoes. Top with meat mix, then add
    cheese, sour cream, salsa, and diced avocado.
 

Nutrition Facts

12 servings per recipe
Serving size: 4 oz
Calories 180 per serving

Contents % Daily Value
Total Fat 9g 11%
Saturated Fat 2.5g 12%
Trans Fat 0g  
Cholesterol 35mg 11%
Sodium #270mg 12%
Total Carbohydrate 13g 5%
Dietary Fiber 3g 12%
Total Sugars 2g  
Incl. Added Sugars g  
Protein 11g 22%
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 0%
Calcium 70mg 6%
Iron 1.5mg 8%
Potassium 310mg 6%
The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
 
Weding, H. 2024, Turkey Taco Salad, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, Recipes

Extension Associated Contacts

Natalie Mazzullo
Natalie Mazzullo
Hans Weding
Hans Weding
 

Also of Interest:

 
tortilla wrap with vegetables on plate with sliced carrots on side.
HiFiber Lunch | Turkey Veggie Wrap
These turkey and vegetable wraps are a simple, budget-friendly meal that combines lean protein with a variety of vegetables for a balanced and satisfying option. Wrapped in whole wheat tortillas, they provide a convenient way to include nutrient-rich ingredients in everyday meals...
 Gastelum, A., Shaw, W. 2026, University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Recipes
 

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Extension's Healthy Aging Initiative (HAI) connects you with the resources to navigate aging and its trends. Our programs are offered for adults over 50 and those who partner with them to provide care and support. We provide expert nutrition and physical activity training information for elders, caregivers and professionals. We have sponsorship options for tours and professional education, and we offer careers in aging exploration programs for students.