Quick Description
A fresh, crunchy, high-protein salad made with seasoned 93% lean ground beef, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and sharp red onion. Perfect for weight loss, muscle building, or a fast, clean dinner. Light, filling, and macro-friendly.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Beef
- 1 lb (450g) 93% lean ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but highly recommended)
For the Salad
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- ½ red onion, sliced thin
Simple Dressing (Choose One)
Option A — Lemon Dressing
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & pepper
Option B — High-Protein Yogurt Dressing
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
- Dice the cucumber.
- Dice the tomatoes.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Add everything to a large bowl.
Step 2: Cook the Lean Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the 93% lean ground beef and break it apart.
- Season with:
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- smoked paprika
- salt & pepper
- Cook for 8–10 minutes until browned.
- Drain excess liquid if needed.
- Let cool slightly to keep the vegetables crisp.
Step 3: Add Dressing
Choose your dressing and whisk it in a small bowl.
Pour over the vegetables and toss to coat.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add the warm ground beef on top of the vegetables.
- Toss until everything is evenly mixed.
- Adjust lemon, salt, and pepper to taste.
Additional Notes
- Add parsley or cilantro for freshness.
- Add lettuce or spinach for more volume with fewer calories.
- Use Greek yogurt on top for a protein boost.
- Great for weight-loss meals because it’s high-protein and very filling.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein
- Low-Calorie
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Carb Friendly
- Calories per serving: 280–350
- Protein per serving: 30–35g
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Taco Style: Add taco seasoning + lime juice + cilantro
- Mediterranean Style: Add parsley + olives + feta (optional)
- Ultra Low-Cal: Double cucumber, add lettuce, use lemon only
Storage
- Store salad without dressing for 2 days.
- Store cooked beef separately for 4 days.
FAQs
Q: Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes—93–99% lean turkey works perfectly.
Q: Can I add cheese?
Yes—feta or mozzarella works, but increases calories.
