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Big Mac Salad

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Big Mac Salad Recipe

Indulge in the iconic flavors of a Big Mac from McDonald’s without the guilt with our sensational Big Mac Salad recipe. Crafted to mimic the beloved fast-food classic, this salad offers all the taste you crave with a fraction of the calories and fat. Say goodbye to the drive-thru and hello to a healthier, homemade version that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Recipe Details

  • Author: The Pound Dropper
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 pound 96% extra lean ground beef or 99% fat-free ground turkey
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp onion salt
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 large head Romaine or Iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 large tomato or 12 grape tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 small red or white onion, diced
  • 1 cup light cheddar cheese (Trader Joe’s 3 Lite Cheese Blend recommended)
  • 12 dill pickles, diced

Dressing Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp Light Mayo (Best Foods or Light Kraft Mayo)
  • 2 Tbsp non-fat Greek or plain yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp No Sugar Added Ketchup (Heinz)
  • 1/2 Tbsp water
  • 1 Tbsp minced white onion
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • Dash of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Prepare the Skillet: Spray a large skillet with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the lean ground beef and onion salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is crumbled and no longer pink.
  3. Add Flavor: Incorporate Worcestershire sauce and minced garlic, stirring until combined. Remove from heat and let the meat cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl or food processor, whisk or blend the light mayonnaise, white vinegar, non-fat yogurt, no added sugar ketchup, salt, water, sweet pickle relish, minced white onion, and sugar until well combined.
  2. Refrigerate: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. Divide Ingredients: Using a food scale, measure out 4 ounces of cooked ground beef for each serving.
  2. Build the Salad: For each serving, place 4 ounces of ground beef over chopped lettuce. Add diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup of light cheddar cheese, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the prepared dressing. Top with diced pickles.

Tips for the Perfect Big Mac Salad

  • Chill the Dressing: Letting the dressing sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
  • Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can add sliced avocado for a creamy texture or use spinach instead of lettuce for added nutrients.
  • Meal Prep: This salad can be prepped ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
  • Store-Bought Convenience: If you’re short on time, you can substitute the homemade dressing with a low-point store-bought Thousand Island dressing.
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FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your dietary preferences.

How long can I store the dressing?

The homemade dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Can I make the salad vegetarian?

Yes, you can use a plant-based meat substitute or add more veggies like beans, corn, and bell peppers to make it vegetarian.

What are the nutritional benefits of this salad?

This salad is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, you can use any type of lettuce or leafy greens you prefer. Romaine, iceberg, spinach, and mixed greens all work well in this salad.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 large servings. Each serving includes 4 ounces of ground beef, 1/4 cup of cheese, and 2 tablespoons of dressing.

What can I do with leftover ingredients?

Leftover ground beef can be used in other recipes like tacos or spaghetti. Extra dressing can be used as a dip for vegetables or as a spread on sandwiches.

This Big Mac Salad is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Big Mac while keeping your meal healthy and satisfying. Enjoy the taste you love without the guilt!

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