This colorful chopped salad topped with juicy grilled steak is a winner! Fresh veggies and tender meat come together for a delicious meal that’s quick to make.
I love how simple it is to put together. Just toss everything in a bowl and grill the steak. It’s perfect for a busy day or a nice dinner with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or sirloin works best for this salad, but you can easily swap it for chicken, shrimp, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. I find that marinating the steak ahead of time enhances its flavor.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch, but feel free to substitute with spinach, mixed greens, or kale. I often mix different greens for added texture and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: A mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds color and sweetness. If you can’t find these, chopped regular tomatoes or even roasted tomatoes work as tasty alternatives.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess; if you’re avoiding it, try sliced cucumber or a dollop of hummus instead for a different texture.
Cheese: Feta or goat cheese enhances the flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can use crumbled vegan cheese or leave it out altogether.
How Do I Grill the Perfect Steak for My Salad?
Grilling steak might feel tricky, but with the right approach, it’s straightforward! Here are my tips:
- Make sure your grill is hot before adding the steak for a nice sear.
- Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps with even cooking.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. A simple seasoning goes a long way!
- Keep an eye on the steak; check for doneness with a meat thermometer (130°F for medium-rare).
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Chopped Salad with Grilled Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb steak (such as flank or sirloin)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch or creamy herb dressing
- Olive oil, for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 12 minutes for grilling the steak, so expect a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful meal that you can whip up any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Steak:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the steak and rub it with a little olive oil and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Once your grill is hot, place the steak on it and grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. When done, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle!
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the steak is resting, grab a large serving platter or bowl. Combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, sweet corn kernels, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
3. Slice and Assemble:
After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain—this makes it more tender and easy to eat. Arrange the slices and your avocado on top of the salad mixture for a beautiful presentation.
4. Dress and Serve:
Finally, drizzle the ranch or creamy herb dressing over the salad. (You can toss the salad lightly to coat it with the dressing if you like, or serve it as-is.) Enjoy the fresh crispness of the veggies combined with the juicy grilled steak!
This salad is not only delicious but is also a great choice for a quick dinner or an easy weeknight meal that’s packed with protein and fresh flavors. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use other cuts like ribeye, tenderloin, or even chicken breast if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness, as different cuts may cook faster or slower.
How Can I Customize the Salad Ingredients?
This salad is very versatile! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even add roasted vegetables. You can also try different cheeses or dressings to match your taste preferences!
What Should I Do with Leftover Steak?
If you have any leftover steak, slice it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can easily use it in wraps, tacos, or even as a topping for omelets!
Can This Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead and keep them stored separately in the fridge, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. If making the steak ahead of time, consider warming it gently before serving.
