Big Mac Salad

Name: Zesty Taco Salad: A Flavorful Fiesta Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1.25 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend); 1 tsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups Romaine lettuce (chopped); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned); 1 medium red onion (finely diced); 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup cilantro leaves (chopped); 0.5 cup tortilla strips (optional, for crunch); 0.33 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 clove garlic (minced); 0.25 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/28/2025

If you’re craving the iconic taste of a Big Mac but want a healthier option, look no further than this delectable Big Mac Salad. This salad captures the essence of your favorite fast food burger while being refreshingly light and satisfying.

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I first encountered this recipe at a family reunion. It wasn’t a typical gathering; rather, it was a celebration of innovative culinary twists on classic dishes. My cousin, a passionate chef, introduced us to the Big Mac Salad. The entire family was amazed at how a salad could replicate the taste of our favorite burger so perfectly while being so good for you. Since then, it’s become a staple at all our get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of both worlds—delicious and nutritious. You’ll love its vibrant mix of textures and flavors from crispy lettuce, juicy beef, and tangy special sauce. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep, and can be made in under 30 minutes. For those on keto or low-carb diets, this salad is a dream come true, delivering all the taste without the carbs.

Ingredients Notes

Ground Beef is the star here. Opt for lean beef for a healthier version or turkey as an alternative. Fresh iceberg lettuce lends crunch, while shredded cheddar provides rich creaminess. Don’t skimp on the pickles—they add a necessary tang. The special sauce, a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard, is what ties it all together. Consider adding natural sweeteners like honey or agave if you’re avoiding refined sugars.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by browning the Ground Beef in a pan over medium heat, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2

Chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces and spread it evenly on a large platter or in individual bowls.

Step 3

Sprinkle the cooked beef over the lettuce, ensuring even distribution for a taste of beef in every bite.

Step 4

Top the salad with shredded cheddar and slices of pickles to add layers of flavor and texture.

Step 5

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and a pinch of paprika—or your favorite hot sauce for a little kick. Drizzle generously over the salad before serving.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess. This salad does not freeze well, but you can prepare the beef in advance and freeze it separately for up to 2 months.

Variations & Substitutions

For vegetarians, consider a soy-based beef substitute or grilled mushrooms for a savory change. Changing up the cheese to blue cheese or goat cheese provides an interesting flavor twist. Add more vegetables like tomatoes or peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It pairs well with a side of crispy Sweet Potato fries or a refreshing iced tea. Serve it at casual gatherings or BBQs for a unique twist that will have guests raving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the salad right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

What if I don’t like pickles? No problem! You can skip the pickles or substitute them with olives or capers for a different kind of tanginess.

How can I increase the protein content? Feel free to add hard-boiled eggs or extra grilled chicken breast slices to boost the protein level to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the Big Mac Salad ahead of time to save time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components of the Big Mac Salad up to 2 days in advance. Cook the ground beef and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chop the lettuce and shred the cheese separately. Make the special sauce and store it in a separate container. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the best texture and prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.

Are there any good substitutes for the ground beef in the Big Mac Salad?

Yes, there are several excellent alternatives to ground beef. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier option, and the cooking instructions remain the same. For vegetarians, consider using a plant-based ground beef substitute, such as those made from soy or pea protein. You can also use crumbled, seasoned tofu or grilled mushrooms for a savory, meat-free alternative.

How can I tell when the ground beef is perfectly cooked for the salad?

The ground beef is perfectly cooked when it is browned and no longer pink. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The texture should be crumbly and slightly crispy. Drain off any excess fat after cooking to prevent the salad from becoming greasy.

Can I double or triple the Big Mac Salad recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe. When doubling or tripling, use a larger skillet to cook the ground beef. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for the beef, but the other steps remain the same. Consider using multiple large bowls for serving.

What are the key nutritional benefits of the Big Mac Salad?

This Big Mac Salad offers a good balance of nutrients. The ground beef provides protein and iron, while the iceberg lettuce contributes vitamins and fiber. The cheddar cheese adds calcium, and the special sauce, while containing some fats, adds flavor. You can boost the nutritional value further by adding extra vegetables like tomatoes or peppers for additional vitamins and minerals.

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Zesty Taco Salad: A Flavorful Fiesta Bowl

This zesty taco salad is a delightful mix of spiced beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy cilantro-lime dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this dish offers all the bold flavors of a taco in a refreshing salad form.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.25 lbs ground beef preferably 80/20 blend
1 tsp taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
2 cups Romaine lettuce chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1 cup corn kernels fresh or canned
1 medium red onion finely diced
0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
0.5 cup cilantro leaves chopped
0.5 cup tortilla strips optional, for crunch

Cilantro-Lime Dressing

0.33 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp ground cumin
1 clove garlic minced
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the taco seasoning and cook for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, corn, red onion, cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lime juice, honey, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Top with the cooked beef and optional tortilla strips before serving.