Description
This Chopped Salad with Grilled Steak is a vibrant and hearty dish featuring perfectly grilled steak slices atop a fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, onion, feta cheese, and black olives. Tossed with a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad balances robust flavors and textures, making it an ideal meal for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad and Steak
- 2 steaks (6 oz each)
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear on your steaks.
- Season the Steaks: Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Grill the Steaks: Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for juicy results.
- Prepare the Salad Base: While the steaks rest, wash and dry the mixed greens and place them into a large salad bowl.
- Add Vegetables: Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion to the greens.
- Add Cheese and Olives: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced black olives over the salad mixture.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Slice the Steak: Slice the rested steaks thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the sliced steak on top of the salad. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the steak cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.
- Allowing the steak to rest before slicing helps retain moisture and juiciness.
- You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free option.
- Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Use a thermometer to check steak doneness: 130°F for medium-rare.
