Rosemary Thyme Taco Salad (Cinco de Mayo Favorite) 
Cinco de Mayo on taco Tuesday means taco salad in the Rosemary Thyme kitchen. 
There are certain meals that don’t need much convincing at our house—and this taco salad is one of them.
My son has always loved Mexican food, and we have a little restaurant nearby that he enjoys so much. But this… this is the version I’ve made at home for years, and it never lasts long on the table.
It’s simple, fresh, and full of flavor—without relying on packaged mixes or heavy extras. Just real ingredients, a little time at the skillet, and a big bowl meant for gathering.
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Ingredients
For the Taco Meat
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1–2 tsp chili powder
• Pinch of cayenne (to taste)
• Black pepper to taste
For the Salad
• 1 large head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup roasted corn (frozen, then roasted)
• 1 can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1–2 cups tortilla strips
Simple Homemade French Dressing
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1–2 tbsp sugar or honey (to taste)
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• Pinch of black pepper
• Optional: tiny pinch of cayenne
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Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned.
2. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Stir and cook until fragrant and well combined.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, tomatoes, roasted corn, pinto beans, and black beans.
4. Add warm taco meat over the top.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and tortilla strips.
6. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
7. Toss salad with dressing just before serving, or let everyone add their own.
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Rosemary Thyme Kitchen Notes
This salad is one of those “build it your way” meals. Everyone can take what they love, and nothing feels heavy or overdone.
I skip the taco bowl shells and use tortilla strips instead—it gives just the right amount of crunch without taking over the whole dish.
And making your own seasoning—and dressing—is a simple step that brings beautiful flavor without the extra sodium.
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Serving Ideas
Serve with a drizzle of the homemade French dressing for a classic, slightly sweet and tangy finish. A spoonful of sour cream or a little extra salsa works beautifully too.
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A Simple Note from My Kitchen
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. I build meals around simple basics, seasonal produce, and pantry staples—then let herbs and a finishing touch make it feel special.
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Blessing
May your table be filled with simple food, shared laughter, and the comfort of being together. May each meal be a quiet reminder that home is built in these small, meaningful moments.
