Looking for a salad that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful? This sweet and salty steak salad is a deliciously balanced meal that brings together juicy grilled steak, crisp greens, fresh veggies, and a perfectly balanced dressing. With a blend of savory, sweet, and tangy elements, this salad is a showstopper for lunch or dinner, ideal for anyone who loves a flavor-packed dish with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 lb flank steak or ribeye steak
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or romaine)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or blue cheese
- 1/4 cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup fresh berries (blueberries or strawberries) or sliced apple
For the Sweet and Salty Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation
Prepare the Steak
- Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Adjust cooking time depending on steak thickness.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness by adding a touch more honey if desired.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Toss to combine.
- Layer the thinly sliced steak over the salad, then sprinkle with crumbled feta, candied pecans, and berries or apple slices.
Drizzle and Serve
- Drizzle the sweet and salty dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious medley of flavors!
Variations
- Asian-Inspired Steak Salad: Use sesame oil in the dressing and add shredded carrots, snap peas, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha to the dressing for a hint of spice.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the berries and candied nuts for a lower-carb version that’s still full of flavor.
Cooking Note
Letting the steak rest after cooking is key for juicy, tender slices. Also, slicing against the grain helps to prevent toughness and makes each bite more tender.
Serving Suggestions
This steak salad is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or roasted vegetables for a more filling dinner. It also pairs well with a crisp, light wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon.
Tips
- Choose the Right Steak: Flank steak is lean with great flavor, while ribeye offers a more marbled, juicy option. Both work well in this recipe.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dressing and slice the vegetables ahead of time for quick assembly. Slice the steak just before serving for the best texture.
- Cheese Substitute: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy, creamy texture that complements the steak and berries.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: You can prep the dressing, vegetables, and even cook the steak ahead of time, but it’s best to slice and add the steak just before serving for optimal texture.
Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: Yes! Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based option like marinated tofu for a tasty alternative.
Q: What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
A: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used instead, though balsamic offers a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
Q: Can I serve this salad warm?
A: Absolutely. Serve the steak warm over the cool greens, which makes for a lovely contrast. Or, lightly toss everything to slightly wilt the greens if you prefer a warm salad.
Conclusion
This sweet and salty steak salad is a fresh and exciting way to enjoy steak and greens in one flavorful dish. With the juicy, tender steak, fresh veggies, sweet fruit, and crunchy nuts, it’s a salad that delivers big on both flavor and texture. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite for lunch or dinner!