Steak Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and vibrant dinner that’s sure to impress, let me introduce you to my favorite Steak Salad! This hearty dish combines marinated flat iron steak with roasted potatoes, sweet corn, and crisp baby greens—all drizzled with homemade ranch dressing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet special or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to!

What makes this Steak Salad extra special is how the flavors come together beautifully. The marinated steak is tender and flavorful, while the roasted potatoes add a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients that not only taste great but also look gorgeous on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Steak Salad comes together in about 90 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of flavors and textures in this salad.
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the steak a day in advance or prepare the roasted potatoes ahead of time for an even quicker assembly!
• Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with veggies and lean protein, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have at home or to suit your tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on this Steak Salad is easy with these simple and wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already!

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Salad

• 1 pound flat iron steak (or flank steak)
• 1 pound red potatoes (cut into small wedges)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dill (fresh, freeze dried, or dried)
• 1 teaspoon parsley (fresh, freeze dried, or dried)
• 1 teaspoon chives (fresh, freeze dried, or dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 8 ounces baby greens
• 2 ears corn
• 8 ounces cherry tomatoes (quartered or halved)
• 1/2 cup green onions (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

Variations

One of the best things about this Steak Salad is its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in your favorite seasonal veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for an extra crunch.
• Change the dressing: If ranch isn’t your thing, a balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-tahini dressing works wonderfully too!
• Make it grain-based: Add cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier version.

How to Make Steak Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

To begin with, marinating the steak is essential for infusing it with flavor. Combine all marinade ingredients—olive oil, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and minced garlic—in a large resealable plastic bag. Add the flat iron steak to the bag and seal it tightly after removing as much air as possible. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. This is where all those delicious flavors soak in!

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

Next up are those lovely roasted potatoes! Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a bowl, mix together cut red potatoes with olive oil, dill, parsley, chives, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper until they’re well coated. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about an hour—stirring occasionally—to achieve that perfect golden-brown color on all sides.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

While the potatoes roast away, let’s get that corn sizzling! Place two ears of corn on a griddle or grill over high heat. Turn them occasionally until they’re nicely charred all around. Once done grilling, slice off those sweet kernels from the cob; they’ll add such a delightful burst of flavor to your salad.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Now onto grilling our star player—the steak! Heat your grill or griddle over high heat. Sear the marinated steak until it reaches an internal temperature of about 130°F for medium doneness. This usually takes just a few minutes per side. After achieving those beautiful grill marks, let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Finally, it’s time to bring everything together! You can either toss all salad ingredients—baby greens, cherry tomatoes, green onions—with ranch dressing in a large bowl or arrange them beautifully on a platter topped with sliced steak. Either way you choose to serve it up will be delicious! Don’t forget to pair your Steak Salad with some warm garlic bread; it’s simply divine!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Salad

Creating the perfect steak salad is all about attention to detail and flavor balance. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Use high-quality steak: Choosing a good cut of meat will enhance the overall flavor of your salad. Flat iron or flank steak are great options, as they are tender and flavorful when properly marinated and grilled.
• Don’t skip the marination: The longer you marinate the steak, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. Aim for at least two hours, but overnight is even better for maximum taste.
• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: To streamline your cooking process, wash and chop all your salad ingredients in advance. This not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy the cooking experience without feeling rushed.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to your salad. They can add color, crunch, and additional nutrients, making your dish even more delightful.
• Rest the steak before slicing: Allowing the grilled steak to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices. This results in a juicier bite when you slice it against the grain.

How to Serve Steak Salad

Presenting your steak salad beautifully can make it even more enjoyable for everyone at the table. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top just before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Adding a wedge of lemon on each plate allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their salad, enhancing flavors with a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic accompaniment that adds a comforting touch and is perfect for scooping up any leftover dressing from your plate.
• Roasted or steamed vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts offer a nutritious side that complements the richness of the steak.
• Quinoa or couscous: These grain-based sides provide a hearty element that pairs nicely with the lightness of baby greens and adds texture.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can be a sweet contrast to the savory elements in your steak salad, making for a well-rounded meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an inviting and delicious steak salad experience that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare components ahead of time, making it an easy option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover steak salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you’ve tossed the salad with dressing, it’s best to eat it right away to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• It’s recommended to freeze the steak separately from the salad components.
• Cool the cooked steak completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag.
• The roasted potatoes can also be frozen using the same method.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen steak and potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm the steak in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.
• You can also reheat potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious Steak Salad!

Can I use a different cut of meat for the Steak Salad?

Absolutely! While flat iron steak is ideal, you can substitute flank steak or sirloin. Just adjust your cooking time according to thickness.

How long can I keep my Steak Salad leftovers?

Leftover Steak Salad is best enjoyed within 3 days when stored properly in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing components separately.

What goes well with Steak Salad?

Garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish, but feel free to add other sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa for a heartier meal!

Is this Steak Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Prepare individual portions and store them for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Steak Salad as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to combine fresh ingredients with hearty flavors that will satisfy everyone around your table. Don’t hesitate to get creative and add your favorite toppings or sides. Happy cooking!