Big Mac Salad: All the Flavor, None of the Guilt!
Discover the Deliciousness of Big Mac Salad
Hi there, food lovers! If you like the classic Big Mac burger but prefer something much healthier, you’re in for a real thrill. This Big Mac Salad is full of all sorts of deliciousness without having to deal with any of the nasty extras, such as carbs. This is an excellent salad for those willing to stick to a low-carb or a ketogenic diet while getting their burger fix in!
I first encountered this salad while looking for something on the loaded side that I could eat without feeling like I had just eaten a sandwich. This meal incorporates a Big Mac’s features into a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-digest salad. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are a few reasons why this Big Mac Salad should be on your menu:
- All the Classic Flavors: Some features of this peculiar salad resemble components of a ‘Big Mac’ burger –compressed ground beef / chopped onions/falsifications pickles/greens / ‘cheese slices,’ / homemade-tasting ‘special sauce.’
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Instead of having a burger, this is more suitable for those who count the calories and carbohydrates; this one has fewer carbohydrates and no bun.
- Customizable: It’s straightforward to adjust the ingredients to your preference, for example, to make it non-dairy, with turkey instead of beef, or add some avocado.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Ideal for lunches or dinners, prepare this salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator. That way, you do not have to mix the dressing with the lettuce, as this is likely to cause the lettuce to wilt.
Big Mac Salad: All the Flavor, None of the Guilt!
Course: Salads, SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes10
minutes400
kcalThis Big Mac Salad has all that Big Mac flavor and goodness, but in a low-carb, more healthy package! Ideal for keto or low carb dieters in need for a quick, convenient meal with plenty of flavor, it’s the “special sauce” spread on seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, pickles, and cheddar, without the bun.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (use lean beef or turkey for a lighter option)
4 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup dill pickles, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp white vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
Avocado, for extra creaminess
Crispy bacon for added crunch
Sesame seeds, for a faithful Big Mac feel
Lettuce wraps for a low-carb handheld version
Directions
- Cook the Ground Beef
First, cook the ground beef in a large skillet, adding over medium heat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then Drench any extra oil. Remove from heat and let it sit while wearing the other ingredients. - Prepare the Vegetables
While the beef is cooking, prepare the toppings; chop the iceberg lettuce, dice the red onion, and slice the pickles. Take them and put them in a large mixing bowl. - Make the Special Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and white vinegar in a small bowl to get the Big Mac Sauce. Stir a dash of salt and pepper and adjust according to your preferred taste. - Assemble the Salad
In the big bowl, mix up the cooked beef, lettuce, pickles, onions, and, if you will use it, shredded cheddar cheese. Spoon the special sauce over this and toss everything gently until the vegetables are coated. - Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy the salad immediately, or you can refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes for the flavors to infuse through the vegetables. This salad is perfect to be served either cold or at ambient temperatures.
Recipe Video
Notes
- If making in advance, store the dressing separately so you can just before serving so the lettuce doesn’t wilt. Use sugar free ketchup and dairy free cheese for a keto or dairy free version, and get all the flavours of a Big Mac without the carbs!
Types of Condiments and Customizations for Big Mac Salad
This Big Mac Salad is super versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own:
- Low-Carb Version: To make it keto-use sugar-free, sugar-free ketchup, those on dairy-free diets should exclude the cheese.
- Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a low-calorie version.
- Make It Vegan: For a vegan lover, do not forget to use plant-based ground meat and a vegan mayo.
- Add Heat: For those who prefer their cheese a little spicy, add jalapeños or spice up the dressing with hot sauce.
Health Benefits of Big Mac Salad
This Big Mac Salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also a healthier alternative to the fast-food favorite:
- Low in Carbs: Instead of stripping away the meat, you’ll lose the bun, all the extra calories you don’t need, with the added taste benefit.
- Protein-Rich: I consider ground beef or turkey as an excellent source of protein that will make you have less desire to continue eating throughout the day.
- Fresh Vegetables: Lastly, crisp lettuce, onions, and pickles provide the body with fiber and essential vitamins.
Serving Suggestions and Storing Tips
This Big Mac Salad can be prepared in a jiffy and is ideal for those who want a quick lunch or dinner. Here are some tips for serving and storing:
- Serve with Lettuce Wraps: For another portion control option, you can have the salad in lettuce cups if you want a handheld meal.
- Make Ahead: In a way, it is better to remember that the individual ingredients of the salad should be cooked beforehand and placed in disposable dishes. So, if you are ready to eat, add all the ingredients in the pan and mix them up quickly.
- Storing leftovers: Refrigerate the salad and the dressing and place them in containers with tight-fitting lids. Of course, it will keep in the frig in an airtight container for three days, and the flavors meld even further.
Conclusion
Well, that is it from me on the Big Mac Salad! Think of it as a delicious, fun, and much healthier burger with all the essential components you enjoy. Whether you are on a low-carb diet, in search of a meal preparation idea, or for a light dinner, this salad will do just fine. Wait no longer! Here it is for you to try it.
Please share how you take your Big Mac Salad and do not forget to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes! You can just as quickly not put cheese on the salad or use dairy cheese instead if you need to lighten up on the dairy products.
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely. You may use ground turkey or chicken, or even plant-based protein options for the same.
How long can I store this salad in the fridge?
This salad remains good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, provided it is stored in a sealed container. Therefore, to retain the freshness of the salad, ensure that you pack the dressing and the salad separately.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad can be eaten with keto bread, barbecue vegetables, or without any side dish, as keto salads are often fulfilling.
