Meat Salad
A hearty meat salad combining seasoned ground beef with fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suited for lunch or dinner with a savory soy-based dressing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in oil.
- Add lettuce to the beef and let it wilt.
- Chop the vegetables: tomatoes, onion, carrot, cucumber, and celery.
- Add the chopped vegetables, parsley, soy sauce, crushed red pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the meat and lettuce.
- Cook until the vegetables are done.
- Serve the meat mixture over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Adding some chopped bell peppers or avocados can elevate the flavors. If you like it spicy, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce. To save time, use pre-chopped vegetables or a bag of mixed salad greens. This versatile recipe can also be enjoyed cold, similar to a classic meat salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat salad over a bed of cooked rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light vinaigrette salad. For a refreshing touch, consider adding sliced avocados or a dollop of sour cream on top. This dish makes for a great lunch option, and you could also enjoy it as a filling for wraps.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain freshness and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Salad contains roughly 219 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2514mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this salad?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for leaner meats that may cook faster.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, especially any condiments, are gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and vegetables in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. This makes for an easy weeknight meal or a quick lunch option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).