Ingredients
Method
Cooking the Bacon
- Place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat and cook it for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping now and then, until it is deeply crisp.
- Transfer the cooked bacon to paper towels to drain. Once it cools, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.
Mixing the Ranch Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, chives, garlic powder, dried dill, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 10 minutes to help blend the flavors.
Preparing the Salad Base
- Finely chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large serving bowl. Alternatively, divide the lettuce among four individual bowls.
- Make sure the base is even so the toppings sit nicely on top.
Arranging the Toppings
- Layer the diced turkey, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrot, corn, black beans, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced red onion over the lettuce.
- Arrange them in rows for a chopped-salad look, or place them in clusters for a more casual style.
Adding Dressing and Crunch
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad, or set it on the side if you prefer everyone to dress their own portion.
- Just before serving, scatter the crushed tortilla chips or croutons over the top.
- Toss gently at the table if you like, so every bite gets a little of everything.
Storing Leftovers
- Store the dressing separately from the salad components in airtight containers.
- Keep the undressed salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and add the crunchy topping only when ready to eat.
Notes
For best texture, do not add crunchy toppings too early. Let bacon and turkey cool slightly before assembling.
