Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Big Mac Pasta Salad
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, letting it cook for an additional minute. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, and add 8 ounces of chickpea pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until it's cool to the touch.
- While the pasta cools, take 1 cup of grape tomatoes and halve them. Chop 2 cups of romaine lettuce into bite-size pieces, dice half a red onion, and chop 1 cup of dill pickles.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of light mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled chickpea pasta, cooked ground beef, halved tomatoes, chopped lettuce, diced red onion, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and chopped dill pickles. Gently toss these ingredients together.
- Drizzle the homemade dressing over the pasta mixture, then toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
- If desired, sprinkle a tablespoon of white sesame seeds on top for added texture. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
For optimal freshness, store salad components separately and combine just before serving. Adjust dressing to your taste preferences.
