Mediterranean Big Mac Salad (Low Carb)
This Mediterranean-style Big Mac Salad takes the flavors of a classic burger and transforms them into a fresh, low-carb bowl. With seasoned ground beef, crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, sharp cheddar, and a tangy homemade special sauce, you’ll enjoy all the indulgence without the bun. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, it’s filling, balanced, and keto-friendly.
Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup chopped red onion
½ cup sugar-free Thousand Island or homemade special sauce (below)
For the Special Sauce:
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
1 tbsp dill relish
1 tsp vinegar
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).
Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
Make the special sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, dill relish, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the salad:
On a large platter or in individual bowls, layer chopped romaine, diced tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheddar.
Add the warm cooked ground beef on top.
Dress & serve:
Drizzle with the special sauce just before serving.
Toss gently or serve as-is for a deconstructed burger bowl.
Tips & Variations
Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a lighter or Mediterranean-style twist.
Cheese options: Try crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan instead of cheddar for a sharper flavor.
Extra veggies: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for more crunch and Mediterranean flair.
Make it spicy: Mix a little harissa, chili flakes, or hot sauce into the beef or the sauce.
Dairy-free option: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based shredded cheese alternative.
Meal prep friendly: Store beef, sauce, and salad components separately. Assemble just before eating to keep greens crisp.
Lower-calorie dressing: Swap mayo in the sauce with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
Add crunch: Sprinkle on toasted sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, or roasted chickpeas for texture.
Wrap it up: Instead of a salad bowl, use large lettuce leaves as “wraps” and eat it like a handheld burger alternative.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but store the beef, sauce, and salad ingredients separately. Assemble right before serving so the lettuce stays crisp.
Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?
A: Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb all work well. For a vegetarian option, try lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Definitely. A sugar-free Thousand Island or ranch-style dressing is a convenient swap if you don’t want to make the sauce.
Q: Is this salad keto-friendly?
A: Yes. It’s naturally low in carbs, especially if you use a sugar-free ketchup and watch the tomato quantity.
Q: How can I add more Mediterranean flavor?
A: Toss in kalamata olives, cucumbers, fresh herbs (like parsley or dill), or swap cheddar for feta cheese.
Nutrition
(per serving, 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: ~420
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: ~550mg
(Approximate values, based on beef with 80/20 ratio and homemade sauce.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Big Mac Salad is a satisfying, low-carb meal that brings burger flavors into a fresh, vibrant bowl. It’s rich in protein, customizable with Mediterranean touches like feta and olives, and pairs well with a creamy, tangy special sauce. Perfect for anyone looking for a lighter alternative to fast food, it works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a hearty lunch. With simple swaps, you can make it spicier, lighter, or vegetarian to suit your needs.