Macho Salad (My Way)
Inspired by the iconic dish from Bandera’s
Let me tell you about the salad I could eat every single week and never get bored of. Back when we had a little neighborhood gem called Bandera’s, my husband and I had a standing date there with friends. I’d order the same thing every time—their famous Macho Salad—and it never missed.
So naturally, I had to recreate my own version at home. And honestly? I think I might like it even better this way. It’s loaded with crunchy romaine, sweet dates, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and my own twist: a bright, herby cilantro lime vinaigrette. Add a little grilled chicken if you’re feeling it, or keep it plant-forward—it’s versatile, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or serving it up for your Easter table or spring brunch, this salad checks every box. It’s nourishing, vibrant, and totally beautiful on the plate. Plus, it’s a great go-to for women over 50 who want a nutrient-dense meal that supports digestion, heart health, and skin vitality.
Macho Salad
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Equipment
- large salad bowl
Ingredients
- 1 head Romaine lettuce
- ½ cup corn freshly cooked
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup dates roughly chopped
- 2 avocados diced
- ½ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup Christine's picked red onion (click for recipe) substitute for red onion
- 2 oz goat cheese crumbles
- ¼ cup Christine's Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette click for recipe
Instructions
- Place salad greens in a beautiful large salad bowl.1 head Romaine lettuce
- Evenly distribute the cherry tomatoes, corn, chopped dates, avocado, red onion (or pickled red onion), and goat cheese over the entire salad.½ cup corn, ½ cup cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup dates, 2 avocados, ½ cup red onion, 2 oz goat cheese crumbles, ½ cup Christine's picked red onion (click for recipe)
- Pour the dressing over all, toss to combine.¼ cup Christine's Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
- Serve immediately.
Video
More About This Recipe
Kitchen Tools You’ll Want
- Large salad bowl (the prettier, the better)
- Sharp chef’s knife for slicing the avocado and red onion
- Small whisk for the vinaigrette
- Citrus press or juicer (for the lime)
- Tongs for tossing everything together evenly
Cooking Tips
- If you’re prepping ahead, wait to add the avocado and dressing until just before serving so everything stays fresh.
- Want extra protein without the chicken? Add cooked quinoa or a scoop of crispy chickpeas.
- If using raw red onions, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the sharp bite.
- Don’t skip the dates—they add the perfect chewy sweetness that ties everything together.
Nutrition
Health Benefits (Especially for Women 50+)
Here’s why this salad isn’t just pretty—it’s functional, too:
- Avocados are full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support cholesterol levels and are rich in potassium and fiber. Plus, their creamy texture makes every bite feel indulgent.
- Dates offer natural sweetness, antioxidants, and dietary fiber that help with digestion and blood sugar balance—especially helpful during menopause when hormone fluctuations affect insulin sensitivity.
- Romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamin C, folate, and phytonutrients that can support bone density and collagen production as we age.
- Goat cheese tends to be easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese and is a good source of protein and calcium.
- Cilantro and lime (in the vinaigrette) are natural detoxifiers that support liver health and digestion. Cilantro may even help reduce heavy metal buildup in the body.
Final Thoughts on My Macho Salad
This Macho Salad is one of those dishes that feels like comfort food, but it’s packed with ingredients your body loves—especially during and after menopause when our nutrient needs shift. It’s light yet filling, flavorful but balanced, and super easy to pull together.
I hope it becomes a staple in your home too. Let me know how you love to serve it—grilled chicken? Toasted pepitas? Maybe even a spicy drizzle on top? Let’s get creative!
Eat well and feel radiant!