Ingredients:

• 6-8 Nopales (Cactus Pads) thorns removed, dice into bite size
• small bunch cilantro
• 1 medium onion
• 2 whole garlic cloves, peeled
• Salt 

** Cotija or Quesco Fresco for toppings

Buying and Preparing the Cactus Pads:

Best place to purchase the cactus is at your local Mexican Market in the produce section. Fresh cactus pads have the prickly thorns which you’ll have to remove with a sharp knife. Make sure to use tongs to help in this process. Cut and trim along the edges. Allow extra time if you go this route.  I prefer to buy them already dethorned. Rinse and pat dry.  Then chop and dice into bite size.

Cooking Time…

In a small to medium size Dutch Oven or stock pot.  Add cactus, ¼ onion, cilantro, cloves, cover with lid and stir occasionally at a medium heat. Cook for 15 - 20 minutes or until tender and all the liquid has evaporated. Remove the cilantro, onions, and cloves. Save a clove to add to salad. Rinse with cold water, repeat. Drain in colander and set aside.

Ensalada (Salad):

• 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 cooked garlic clove, finely diced
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro 
• salt to taste

**Queso Fresco, cubed or sprinkled

In a med size salad bowl, add nopales, tomatoes, clove, onion, and cilantro and toss gently.

Dressing is optional:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red vinegar
• salt & pepper

Carne Asada (beef):

• 1 -2 teaspoons olive or canola oil
• 1 ½ lbs. finely diced carne asada (beef)
• 1 teaspoon Mexican Oregano 
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Lindita’s Mild Salsa Mix
• ½ lime, squeezed 

** 8-12 Flour or corn tortillas

** Avocados, sliced or cubed 

Directions:

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef, seasonings,stir well, squeeze lime and cook. Stir often until beef has browned for 6-10 minutes.

Serve warm tortillas filled with beef and topped with the cactus salad and sprinkle with cheese on a large platter. Pairs well with a fresh Dita Rita Margarita ~ This recipe is going to definitely become another one of your favorites….

Vegetarian: ~ Just leave out the beef

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