Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions for Big Mac Pasta Salad
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart as you go, until browned and fully cooked through. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce during the last minute for added flavor, then remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook 8 ounces of chickpea pasta according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. When al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water until cooled completely, preventing it from sticking together. Set aside as you prepare the fresh ingredients.
- Gather your fresh veggies and chop them while your pasta is cooling. Halve about 1 cup of grape tomatoes, chop 2 cups of romaine lettuce, and finely dice half a red onion and 4 dill pickles.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of nonfat Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of light mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of no-sugar-added ketchup, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic and onion powder, as well as 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled chickpea pasta, the cooked ground beef, and your chopped tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and pickles. Gently fold everything together.
- Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad mixture generously. Carefully toss the salad to coat all the ingredients evenly without breaking the pasta.
- Just before serving, gently fold in the romaine lettuce to keep it crisp. You can serve the Big Mac Pasta Salad immediately, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. If desired, sprinkle white sesame seeds on top.
Nutrition
Notes
Serve the salad right after it's made for the best taste, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
