Ingredients

  • 2 heads romaine lettuce, washed and torn into 1 1/2 by 1/2 inch pieces
  • 3/4 cup cooked black beans
  • 3/4 cup roasted corn kernel
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, from a mexican squash (pepitas)
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese (Mexican white cheese) or 1/2 cup other queso fresco
  • multicolored tortilla chips, baked or fried,for garnish
  • Spicy Caesar Dressing
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 anchovy fillets, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh coarse ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons cold water
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons thai chili paste
  • 1/2 lemon, juice of
  • 1/2 lime, juice of
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese

Method

  • Prepare dressing first.
  • In the bowl of a food processor, combine yolk, garlic, mustard, anchovies, pepper, salt, coriander, cumin, Worcestershire and water.
  • Process all until smooth.
  • With motor running, pour oils in a slow, steady stream into egg mixture.
  • When all oil has been incorporated, add chili paste, lemon and lime juices and Parmesan.
  • Process until smooth.
  • Prepare salad next.
  • Spin or pat lettuce dry.
  • Place in large salad bowl.
  • Add dressing; toss lightly.
  • Add beans and corn; toss again.
  • Divide mixture among 4 chilled plates.
  • Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and cheese.
  • Garnish with tortilla chips.