Romaine Salad with Chipotle Dressing and Warm Queso Fresco

A fresh and zesty salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce topped with warm, cornflake-crusted queso fresco and dressed with a spicy chipotle vinaigrette. This Mexican-inspired salad combines crispy, creamy, and spicy elements for a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

6 servings
30 min

Ingredients

  • cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chipotle hot sauce
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cups cornflakes
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 round queso fresco cheese
  • 1 head romaine lettuce

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Whisk 1/3 cup oil, hot sauce, and sugar in small bowl to blend. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Brush baking sheet with olive oil. Mix cornflakes and oregano in medium bowl. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Brush cheese wedges on all sides with 3 tablespoons oil. Dip cheese wedges in cornflake mixture, coating completely. Place on prepared baking sheet. (Dressing and cheese wedges can be made 4 hours ahead. Let dressing stand at room temperature; cover and chill cheese.)

    15 min

  3. 3.

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake cheese wedges until hot and softened but not melted, about 5 minutes.

    5 min

  4. 4.

    Meanwhile, toss lettuce with dressing in large bowl. Divide among 6 plates. Top each salad with 2 hot cheese wedges.

    5 min