Big Mac-Inspired Crunch Salad
Indulge in the savory flavors of a classic Big Mac like you've never experienced before! This Big Mac-Inspired Crunch Salad brings together juicy, flavorful beef, toasted bread, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy dressing that mirrors the iconic flavors of your favorite burger. Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, this salad is satisfyingly hearty, yet refreshing enough to be enjoyed any time of the year. Dive into a bowl of nostalgia and deliciousness, because salads can be indulgent too!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
white bread
8 slices (toasted and cubed)
extra lean ground beef
1 - 1 1/2 lb (browned and drained)
onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
iceberg lettuce
1 head (shredded)
shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups
mayonnaise
3/4 cup
ketchup
1/4 cup
sweet pickle relish
2 tablespoons
salt
1/4-1/2 teaspoon
pepper
1/4 teaspoon
sesame seeds
1 tablespoon (for garnish)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Big Mac-Inspired Crunch Salad?
It is a hearty salad that replicates the iconic flavors of a Big Mac burger using ground beef, fresh lettuce, cheddar cheese, and a creamy signature dressing.
What are the core ingredients of this salad?
The recipe includes white bread, extra lean ground beef, onion, iceberg lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dressing made of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.
How is the dressing for the Big Mac-Inspired Salad made?
The dressing is a mix of 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons of sweet pickle relish, salt, and pepper.
What kind of beef is recommended for this recipe?
Extra lean ground beef is recommended. It should be browned in a pan and thoroughly drained before adding it to the salad.
How do you prepare the bread for the salad?
You should take 8 slices of white bread, toast them until golden, and then cut them into small cubes to provide the 'crunch' factor.
What type of lettuce provides the best texture?
Iceberg lettuce is specifically called for because its shredded leaves offer the classic crunch associated with the original burger.
Is this salad suitable for potlucks?
Yes, this salad is perfect for potlucks and gatherings as it is hearty, flavorful, and easy to serve to a group.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While shredded cheddar cheese is used for the traditional taste, you could substitute with American or Monterey Jack if preferred.
What is the purpose of the sesame seeds in this recipe?
Sesame seeds are used as a garnish to mimic the look and slight nuttiness of a classic sesame seed burger bun.
How should the onions be prepared?
The onions should be finely chopped so that their flavor is distributed evenly throughout every bite of the salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It is best to prepare the ingredients separately and assemble them just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting and the bread from getting soggy.
How much ground beef is required?
The recipe calls for 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of extra lean ground beef.
What gives the salad its 'Big Mac' flavor?
The combination of the browned beef, chopped onions, and the mayo-ketchup-relish dressing creates the nostalgic burger taste.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe because it mainly involves simple browning of meat and chopping of vegetables.
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
While beef provides the classic flavor, ground turkey or chicken could be used as a leaner alternative.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion.
Should the beef be seasoned while browning?
You can add a portion of the salt and pepper to the beef while browning it to ensure the meat is well-seasoned.
What is the serving suggestion for this salad?
Serve it in a large bowl where the colors of the lettuce, cheese, and beef can be seen before tossing with the dressing.
Is there a substitute for sweet pickle relish?
If you don't have relish, you can finely mince dill pickles and add a tiny pinch of sugar to the dressing.
Does this salad contain sugar?
There is no added granulated sugar, though the ketchup and sweet pickle relish contain some sugar.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; however, note that the toasted bread cubes may soften over time.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Yes, adding sliced tomatoes or extra pickles would enhance the 'burger' theme of the salad.
How much salt and pepper should be used?
The recipe suggests 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Is this a main dish or a side dish?
Due to the high protein content from the beef and cheese, it is hearty enough to be served as a main meal.
Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?
Yes, you can use whole wheat bread for a more fiber-rich option, though white bread keeps the flavor closer to the original burger.
What is the texture of the dressing?
The dressing is creamy and thick, which helps it coat the lettuce and beef evenly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because of the white bread, but you can substitute with gluten-free bread to adapt it.
Why is it called a 'Crunch' salad?
It gets its name from the combination of crispy toasted bread cubes and fresh, crunchy iceberg lettuce.
How many slices of bread are used?
The recipe calls for 8 slices of white bread.
What kind of cheddar cheese is best?
Mild or medium shredded cheddar works best to complement the other savory flavors without overpowering them.