Are you ready to elevate your salad game to gourmet status? This Steak Salad with Tomato and Blue Cheese is not just any ordinary salad—it's a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender grilled steak, fresh greens, and the rich tang of blue cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you'll discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Dive into this delightful recipe and transform your salad experience today!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, grilled and sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove steak from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Season steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat.
- Preheat grill or heavy skillet to high heat, ensuring the cooking surface is very hot before adding the steak.
- Cook steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time based on thickness and desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for precision (135°F for medium-rare).
- Once cooked, transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat tender.
- While steak rests, wash and dry mixed greens, then arrange them on a large serving platter.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half and thinly slice red onion, scattering them over the greens.
- Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin, diagonal strips to ensure maximum tenderness.
- Arrange steak slices over the prepared salad greens.
- Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese evenly across the salad.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the entire salad just before serving.
- Add a final seasoning of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while steak is still warm and enjoy your gourmet steak salad.
Tips
- Bring the Steak to Room Temperature: For the best results, remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender finish.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! A generous seasoning will enhance the steak's natural flavors. Press the seasoning into the meat to ensure it sticks well.
- Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Whether you’re using a grill or a skillet, make sure it’s hot before adding the steak. A high temperature creates a beautiful sear and locks in the juices.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve the perfect doneness, especially if you're aiming for medium-rare, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 135°F for the ideal result.
- Let the Steak Rest: After cooking, let your steak rest for 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Slice Against the Grain: When it's time to slice the steak, be sure to cut against the grain. This technique ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix and match your greens! Spinach, arugula, or even kale can add different textures and flavors to your salad.
- Dress Just Before Serving: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad right before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the salad immediately while the steak is still warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 100mg
