Description
The Big Mac Salad is a creative and healthier twist on the classic Big Mac burger. This recipe deconstructs the beloved fast-food staple into a refreshing salad form without compromising on the iconic taste.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (90/10)
1 head of iceberg lettuce
2 Roma tomatoes, diced
12 pickles, diced (more if desired)
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1 bottle Thousand Island dressing
Optional:
A sprinkle of sesame seeds
Shredded cheese
Instructions
Place ground beef into a sauté pan and cook until the meat is browned. Break up any large pieces as you are cooking. Drain any excess grease.
Wash and chop the iceberg lettuce, placing it into a large bowl.
Dice the tomatoes and add them to the bowl, tossing to combine.
Dice the pickles and add them to the bowl as well.
Chop the red onion and add it to the bowl. Toss all the vegetables together.
Add the cooked ground beef to the bowl and toss everything together with salad tongs.
Serve the salad topped with Thousand Island dressing. Optionally, top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and/or shredded cheese.
Notes
- Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture in your salad. Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier profile and freshly shredded cheddar for its melting quality and rich taste.
- Preparation Tips: To maintain the freshness and crunch of the lettuce, chop and rinse it under cold water, then dry it thoroughly before use. This keeps the salad crisp and invigorating.
- Cooking the Beef: Season the beef generously and cook it until it’s browned and crumbly. This not only enhances its flavor but also mimics the texture of a Big Mac patty.
- Assembling the Salad: Layer the ingredients strategically to distribute the flavors evenly. Start with lettuce, add the beef and cheese, and top with onions, pickles, and tomatoes. Drizzle with the special sauce last to coat everything nicely without making the salad soggy.
- Dressing Adaptations: For a personalized touch, you can adjust the special sauce according to your preference. Adding a bit of hot sauce or paprika can introduce a spicy element, while swapping in Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dressing can reduce calories and add a tangy flavor.
- Serving: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but if you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to keep the ingredients vibrant and crisp.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with grilled tempeh or a plant-based meat substitute. Ensure all condiments are vegetarian or vegan as required, and use dairy-free cheese if avoiding animal products.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 235 kca
