This Steak Salad is brimming with juicy steak, vibrant vegetables, and a delectably tangy Dijon Balsamic Dressing. It's an ideal choice for lunch or dinner!
For The Dijon Balsamic Salad Dressing and Marinade
⅓cupextra virgin olive oil
3tablespoonsbalsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½tablespoondijon mustard
½teaspoondried oregano
½teaspoon dried thyme
salt and fresh ground pepperto taste
For The Steak
8 to 10ouncestop sirloin steaks
2tablespoonsbutter
1clovegarlicsmashed
For The Salad
6 to 8cupspacked torn romaine lettuce or mixed baby greens
½cupthinly sliced red onions
1wholeavocado thinly sliced
2cupshalved cherry tomatoes
1English cucumberwashed, dried, and cut into cubes
½cupcrumbled feta cheeseyou can also use blue cheese or goat cheese
Instructions
For The Salad Dressing and Marinade
Combine all the ingredients for the salad dressing in a mixing bowl; whisk until thoroughly combined.
Measure out 1/4 cup of the marinade and pour it into a ziploc bag. Set the rest of the salad dressing aside.
For The Steaks
Place the steaks inside the Ziploc bag with the marinade; seal the bag, rub the marinade all around the steaks, and place the bag in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.
Take steaks out of the Ziploc bag and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Add 2 tablespoons butter and smashed garlic cloves to a cast iron skillet and melt over medium-high heat.
Add steaks to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked to desired doneness, about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Remove the steaks from the skillet, set aside, and keep them covered for about 5 minutes.
Assembling The Salad
Meanwhile, arrange torn romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, and avocado slices in a large salad bowl.
Slice the steaks against the grain into about 1/4-inch thick slices.
Arrange sliced steaks over salad.
Pour the remaining dressing over the salad; lightly toss to combine.
Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
Notes
Choice of Steak: While we've mentioned sirloin steak in the recipe, you can choose any steak cut you prefer or have on hand. Flank, ribeye, or even leftover steak work well.
Marinade: Ensure your steak marinates long enough to absorb the flavors; this will enhance the taste of your steak. Ideally, aim for at least 20 minutes.
Cooking the Steak: Don't rush the cooking process; a well-seared steak will impart a beautiful flavor to your salad. Steak continues to cook a bit even after being removed from heat, so aim for slightly less than your desired doneness and let it rest before slicing.
Salad Dressing: Making the dressing at home ensures you can control the ingredients and their quantities, adapting to your preferences and dietary needs.
Salad Components: Feel free to mix in your favorite salad ingredients. Besides the ones listed, you could add bell peppers, radishes, or whatever you have on hand.
Serving: Ideally, serve the steak warm on the salad for a nice contrast. However, this versatile recipe tastes just as good when the steak is cold, making it perfect for leftover lunches.
Storing: To avoid a soggy salad, store the components separately if you're planning to wait to consume it. Dress the salad just before serving for the best taste and texture.