Nopal (Cactus) Salad with Cactus Tacos

 

• 6-8 Nopales (Cactus Pads) thorns removed, dice into bite size

• small bunch cilantro

• 1 medium onion

• 2 whole garlic cloves, peeled

• Salt 

 

** Cotija or Quesco Fresco for toppings

 

Buying and Preparing the Cactus Pads

 

Best place to purchase the cactus is at your local Mexican Market in the produce section. Fresh cactus pads have the prickly thorns which you’ll have to remove with a sharp knife. Make sure to use tongs to help in this process. Cut and trim along the edges. Allow extra time if you go this route.  I prefer to buy them already dethorned. Rinse and pat dry.  Then chop and dice into bite size.

 

Cooking Time…

 

In a small to medium size Dutch Oven or stock pot.  Add cactus, ¼ onion, cilantro, cloves, cover with lid and stir occasionally at a medium heat. Cook for 15 - 20 minutes or until tender and all the liquid has evaporated. Remove the cilantro, onions, and cloves. Save a clove to add to salad. Rinse with cold water, repeat. Drain in colander and set aside.

 

Ensalada (Salad)

 

• 3 Roma tomatoes, diced

• 1 cooked garlic clove, finely diced

• ½ onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro 

• salt to taste

 

**Queso Fresco, cubed or sprinkled

 

In a med size salad bowl, add nopales, tomatoes, clove, onion, and cilantro and toss gently.

 

Dressing is optional 

 

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup red vinegar

• salt & pepper

 

Carne Asada (beef)

 

• 1 -2 teaspoons olive or canola oil

• 1 ½ lbs. finely diced carne asada (beef)

• 1 teaspoon Mexican Oregano 

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon Lindita’s Mild Salsa Mix

• ½ lime, squeezed 

 

** 8-12 Flour or corn tortillas

** Avocados, sliced or cubed 

 

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef, seasonings,stir well, squeeze lime and cook. Stir often until beef has browned for 6-10 minutes.

 

Serve warm tortillas filled with beef and topped with the cactus salad and sprinkle with cheese on a large platter. Pairs well with a fresh Dita Rita Margarita ~ This recipe is going to definitely become another one of your favorites….

 

Vegetarian ~ Just leave out the beef