What's For Dinner: Southwestern BBQ Salad

June is here, and with it, that familiar whisper of summer urging us to spend just a little more time outdoors. For an introvert like me, that often means finding joy in the quiet corners of my own backyard, maybe with a good book and the warmth of the sun. But all that simple enjoying can still build up an appetite! And honestly, by the time dinner rolls around, my brain sometimes feels like a tangled garden hose – lots of pressure, nowhere clear to go. The thought of a heavy meal? Not so appealing when the days are long and warm. This is where my beloved Southwestern BBQ Salad steps in, a refreshing friend that feels both hearty and light.

There’s something truly special about summer evenings, isn't there? The way the light lingers, painting the sky with soft hues. It reminds me of how God paints our lives, adding layers of grace and beauty even in the ordinary. And this salad, in its own small way, feels like a little piece of that grace. It’s got all the satisfying flavors of a backyard BBQ – smoky, tangy, a little bit spicy – but served up on a bed of fresh greens. It’s the perfect compromise for when you want comfort food without the heaviness, a way to nourish your body and soul without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also incredibly adaptable, much like our faith encourages us to be, finding joy and sustenance in whatever season we're in.

Ingredients

• Mixed greens (romaine, spring mix, or your favorite blend)
• Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great for ease!)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh off the cob)
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (or diced if you prefer less bite)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• Crunchy tortilla strips for topping
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)

For the Creamy BBQ Ranch Dressing:

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (your favorite brand)
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (choose one you love!)
• 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh is best)
• A pinch of smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

1. If you're cooking chicken from scratch, grill or bake it until fully cooked, then shred or dice. Let it cool slightly. If using rotisserie, simply shred.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and lime juice for the dressing. Add a pinch of smoked paprika if you like. Taste and adjust to your liking – more BBQ sauce for tang, more ranch for creaminess.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine your mixed greens, black beans, corn, diced tomato, and red onion.
4. Add the cooked chicken, diced avocado, and shredded cheese to the bowl.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss everything gently to ensure all ingredients are coated.
6. Serve immediately, topped with crunchy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

This salad is more than just a meal; it's an invitation to pause, enjoy the goodness of simple provisions, and find cheer in the everyday. It reminds me that even when life feels busy, we can always make space for what refreshes us, both physically and spiritually. As we move through this beautiful month of June, I pray you find those moments too. What simple meal or quiet moment brings you deep refreshment in this season?

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Photo by Sangria Señorial on Unsplash

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