Patriotic Taco Salad

I also made this recipe for my son's graduation party. When I made it I couldn't take it hot with me. So, I mixed all of the ingredients together and took it that way. It was still very good!

PATRIOTIC TACO SALAD

1 lb. ground beef
1 med. onion, chopped
1 1/2 cups water
1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
1 env. taco seasoning
6 cups tortilla or corn chips (1 bag)
4 to 5 cups shredded lettuce
9 to 10 pitted large olives, sliced lengthwise
2 cups (8 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water, tomato paste and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Place chips in an ungreased 13x9 inch dish. Spread beef mixture evenly over the top. Cover with lettuce. For each star, arrange five olive slices together in the upper left corner. To form stripes, add cheese and tomatoes in alternating rows. Serve immediately. Makes 8 servings.

Note: Recipe from Taste of Home