Watercress Salad with Cotija Cheese and Fried Tortillas

Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Health score
11%
Watercress Salad with Cotija Cheese and Fried Tortillas
45 min.
8
246kcal

Suggestions


Discover the vibrant flavors of our Watercress Salad with Cotija Cheese and Fried Tortillas, a delightful dish that perfectly balances freshness and crunch. This vegetarian and gluten-free salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious addition to any meal. With its bright cherry tomatoes and peppery watercress, this salad brings a burst of color and flavor to your table.

The star of this dish is the crumbled cotija cheese, which adds a creamy, salty richness that complements the crispness of the fried tortilla strips. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, making it an ideal side dish, antipasti, or even a light snack. The simple yet flavorful dressing, made with sherry vinegar and olive oil, ties all the ingredients together, enhancing their natural tastes.

Ready in just 45 minutes, this salad serves eight, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a refreshing starter, this Watercress Salad is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 0.3 teaspoon pepper black
  • pint cherry tomatoes halved (preferably heirloom)
  • 7-inch corn tortillas halved ()
  • cup cotija cheese crumbled (also called añejo)
  • tablespoons olive oil 
  • 0.3 teaspoon salt 
  • tablespoon sherry vinegar 
  • cups vegetable oil for frying
  • pound watercress 

Equipment

  • bowl
  • frying pan
  • paper towels
  • whisk
  • kitchen thermometer
  • slotted spoon

Directions

  1. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a 10- to 12-inch heavy skillet until thermometer registers 350°F, then fry tortilla strips, a handful at a time, until golden, 30 to 45 seconds.
  2. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain and season with salt.
  3. Whisk together vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then add olive oil in a stream, whisking until combined well.
  4. Toss watercress with dressing in a large bowl and divide among 8 plates. Divide tomatoes and tortilla strips among salads, tucking strips into greens decoratively, and sprinkle salads with cheese.
  5. * Available at Latino markets and, in the winter months, Kitchen/Market (888-468-4433).

Nutrition Facts

Calories246kcal
Protein8.63%
Fat73.67%
Carbs17.7%

Properties

Glycemic Index
17.69
Glycemic Load
3.54
Inflammation Score
-9
Nutrition Score
15.563913055088%

Flavonoids

Apigenin
0.01mg
Luteolin
0.02mg
Kaempferol
13.06mg
Myricetin
0.12mg
Quercetin
17.42mg

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:245.82kcal
12.29%
Fat:20.78g
31.96%
Saturated Fat:4.98g
31.13%
Carbohydrates:11.23g
3.74%
Net Carbohydrates:9.48g
3.45%
Sugar:1.73g
1.92%
Cholesterol:16.69mg
5.56%
Sodium:323.87mg
14.08%
Alcohol:0g
100%
Alcohol %:0%
100%
Protein:5.48g
10.95%
Vitamin K:167.05µg
159.09%
Vitamin C:37.88mg
45.91%
Vitamin A:2178.29IU
43.57%
Calcium:180.83mg
18.08%
Vitamin E:2.63mg
17.51%
Phosphorus:165.83mg
16.58%
Vitamin B2:0.25mg
14.71%
Manganese:0.27mg
13.43%
Vitamin B6:0.24mg
11.78%
Potassium:359.99mg
10.29%
Magnesium:32.86mg
8.21%
Vitamin B1:0.12mg
7.78%
Fiber:1.75g
7.01%
Selenium:4.63µg
6.61%
Copper:0.12mg
6.03%
Zinc:0.9mg
6.02%
Vitamin B12:0.32µg
5.28%
Iron:0.89mg
4.93%
Folate:19.63µg
4.91%
Vitamin B5:0.45mg
4.52%
Vitamin B3:0.86mg
4.31%
Source:Epicurious