Big Mac Salad
A delightful twist on the classic Big Mac, this salad offers all the iconic flavors without the bun, making it light and customizable.
Ingredients
For the salad
- 1 lb ground beef (halal) Choose lean beef for a healthier option, or use ground chicken or turkey as an alternative.
- 4 cups chopped Romaine lettuce Provides a crisp base similar to the Big Mac’s lettuce.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese Adds a creamy, cheesy flavor that complements the beef.
- ¼ cup pickles, chopped Essential for the signature tang of the Big Mac.
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced Adds a bit of crunch and mild sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the beef.
For the sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard A key flavor in the Big Mac sauce.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (halal-certified) Use a good quality mayo for the best texture and taste.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (halal-certified) Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar For acidity and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Enhances the savory taste of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste Season according to your preference.
- Fresh parsley (optional) For garnishing the salad.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
- While the beef is cooking, chop the Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the pickles.
- If using a block, shred the cheddar cheese using a box grater or food processor.
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
Combine the Salad
- In the large salad bowl with the lettuce, add the cooked beef, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pickles, and sliced red onion. Toss gently to combine.
- Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the salad and toss again to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crispy sweet potato fries or homemade garlic bread. Store leftovers separately to maintain freshness.