Y’hello, Beastie! Today, we’re leveling up the humble coleslaw with a protein punch. This coleslaw salad with ground beef is fresh, crunchy, satisfying, and packed with 33g of protein per serving. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and actually fun to eat! So, roll your sleeves up because we’re getting to work.
YOU WILL NEED
- Coleslaw mix — 425g (because fiber is your friend)
- Grape tomatoes — 16, halved (sweet, juicy, and poppin’)
- Avocado — 2 medium, sliced (for that creamy goodness)
- Red onion — 1 ¼ medium, thinly sliced (because salads need a little zing)
- Cucumber — 4 cups, sliced (crunch level: expert)
- Ground beef (93% lean) — 20 oz (because protein = gains)
- Thousand Island dressing* — 4 tbsp (the sauce that makes everything better)
- Green scallions or fresh cilantro — for garnish (optional, but highly recommended)
- Lime wedges — 4 (because a little citrus never hurt nobody)
- Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings —to taste (because you’re the boss of flavor)
*Or your choice of dressing. Just keep in mind that your macros numbers may slightly change.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Sauté the beef like a pro – Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, season it to perfection (salt, pepper, maybe some garlic powder or smoked paprika if you’re feeling fancy), and cook until browned and delicious. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Chop, slice, and dice – While the beef is cooking, prep your veggies. Slice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, thinly slice that red onion, and get your avocado ready.
3. Mix up the greens – In a large bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. This is where the crunch factor comes alive.
4. Dress it up – Drizzle with Thousand Island dressing and toss gently to coat everything in that creamy magic.
5. Build your masterpiece – Divide the salad mixture into four bowls. Top each with a generous serving of seasoned ground beef.
6. Final touches – Top with avocado slices, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and sprinkle with green scallions or fresh cilantro for that pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy – Grab a fork (or just dive in—no judgment), and enjoy every protein-packed, refreshing, and satisfying bite.
NUTRITION FACTS
This recipe serves 4, and the macros per serving are as follows:
Calories: 460 | Protein: 33g | Fat: 26g | Carbs: 23g.
This isn’t just a salad—it’s a gut-friendly, digestion-supporting, nutrient-packed meal that your body will thank you for. Here’s why:
- Fiber from the coleslaw mix and cucumbers – Helps keep digestion running smoothly and supports a happy gut microbiome.
- Avocado for healthy fats – Rich in monounsaturated fats and fiber, avocado helps with nutrient absorption and keeps your gut lining strong.
- Fermentation potential – If you swap in a probiotic-rich dressing (like a yogurt-based one), you’re feeding your gut even more good bacteria.
- Onions and scallions for prebiotics – These guys help feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, making digestion more efficient and reducing bloating.
- Lime juice for digestion – That little citrus kick helps stimulate digestive enzymes and makes this meal even easier on your stomach.
- Lean protein for satiety and muscle repair – Keeps you full longer while giving your gut and muscles the fuel they need to perform.
This salad is perfect for meal prep, a quick lunch, or when you want something fresh that still keeps you full. Your gut will love the fiber, your taste buds will love the crunch, and your muscles will love the protein. A triple win!
If you try this recipe, Beastie, let us know—because sharing food experiences is how we roll. Tag us on Instagram. And if you want more recipes, visit the Beasts shop, where we have recipe ebooks tailored to various diets.