Ensalada de Nopal con Carne
Ensalada de Nopal con Carne is a vibrant Mexican salad that combines tender grilled beef with fresh, slightly tart cactus paddles (nopales). It's typically dressed with a simple vinaigrette of lime juice and olive oil, and often includes onions, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. This dish is a staple in central and northern Mexican cuisine, celebrated for its refreshing texture and hearty protein.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This is a high-protein, low-carb dish, with the beef providing a substantial protein source and the nopales contributing fiber and minimal carbohydrates. A typical serving offers a good balance of key nutrients like iron, vitamin C, and potassium, with a rough calorie estimate of 300-400 kcal.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 620 mg |
| Vitamin K | 15 mcg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
Per 1.5 cups (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the dish showcases the use of the nopal cactus, a national symbol of Mexico and a deeply traditional ingredient. Nutritionally, the pairing is unique as the vitamin C from the lime and tomatoes significantly enhances the absorption of iron from the beef.
