Tasty and Easy Carnitas Salad for Busy Weeknights

Are you a home cook trying to eat healthier while still enjoying the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine? Look no further than the Carnitas Salad! This dish combines the succulent, crispy textures of traditional carnitas with the fresh, vibrant ingredients of a hearty salad. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is a favorite among healthy eaters and Mexican food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients List

For the Carnitas:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (boneless)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 orange, halved
• 1 lime, halved
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed greens (e.g., romaine, arugula, spinach)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., cotija, cheddar)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Carnitas

1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:

• • Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
  2. Cook the Carnitas:
  • Place the seasoned pork, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and chicken broth in a slow cooker.
  • Squeeze the juice from the orange and lime halves over the mixture, then add the squeezed halves to the pot.
  • Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
  3. Crisp the Carnitas:
  • Preheat your oven to 450°F.
  • Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and shred it into smaller pieces.
  • Pour about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid over the shredded pork.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are crispy.

  Salad Preparation

  1. Prepare the Greens:
  • Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Place them in a large salad bowl.
  2. Add the Vegetables:
  • Top the greens with cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and corn kernels.
  3. Add the Carnitas:
  • Once your carnitas are crispy and cooled slightly, add a generous portion on top of the salad.
  4. Prepare the Dressing:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
  5. Dress the Salad:
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

  Serving Suggestions

  • Optional Toppings:
  • Add freshly sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
  • Sprinkle-grated cotija or cheddar cheese for a delightful savory touch.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
  • Serving Tips:
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of warm carnitas and fresh salad.
  • Pair with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a light beer for a complete meal.

  Conclusion

  Creating a Carnitas Salad at home is not only easy but also a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a healthy, balanced meal. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this salad is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your salad game? Give this recipe a try and share your experience with us!

  Enjoy your Carnitas Salad and happy cooking! 🌮🥗