This colorful chopped salad is packed with fresh veggies and topped with tender, juicy grilled steak. It’s a fast and tasty meal that leaves you feeling great!
Who doesn’t love a salad that can hold its own with a hearty steak? I love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. Just chop, grill, and enjoy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank steak or sirloin works well, but you could also use ribeye or chicken if preferred. Just ensure you adjust cooking times for chicken. Grilled tofu is a tasty option for a vegetarian choice!
Lettuce: Romaine adds a nice crunch, but feel free to use any mixed greens like spinach or kale. Each type of lettuce can bring a different flavor and texture to the salad.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy. If they’re out of season, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even halved grape tomatoes for a similar effect.
Corn: Fresh corn is delightful in summer, but you can also use frozen or canned corn. Just drain and rinse the canned variety to reduce sodium.
Cheese: Feta adds a nice tang, but feel free to swap it with blue cheese or shredded cheddar if you prefer something different.
How Do I Grill the Perfect Steak?
Grilling steak can be simple, but a few pointers can make a huge difference! Here’s how to achieve that perfect cook:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high for a nice sear.
- After rubbing the steak with olive oil and seasoning, let it sit for a few minutes—this helps with flavor.
- For best results, grill the steak without moving it for 4-5 minutes per side. Use tongs to flip it; avoid piercing!
- Once cooked, let it rest off the grill for 5-10 minutes—this lets the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
- Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness—this is key!
Easy Chopped Salad With Juicy Grilled Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/2 cup creamy herb dressing (ranch or a homemade herb buttermilk dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including the time to grill the steak. You can enjoy this delightful chopped salad with juicy grilled steak in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is important to get that nice sear on your steak!
2. Season the Steak:
Rub the steak with olive oil, and generously season it with salt and pepper on both sides for delicious flavor.
3. Grill the Steak:
Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Keep an eye on it, and don’t press down on the steak while it’s cooking!
4. Let the Steak Rest:
Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting time is key for juicy steak!
5. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the steak is resting, take a large serving plate or bowl and layer in the chopped romaine lettuce as your salad base.
6. Add the Veggies:
Next, layer the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, finely chopped red onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and slices of avocado over the lettuce. Feel free to arrange it nicely to make it look pretty!
7. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese across the salad, adding a creamy and tangy element to every bite.
8. Slice the Steak:
Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This ensures you get tender slices for your salad.
9. Assemble the Salad:
Place the sliced steak on top of the salad, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
10. Dress and Serve:
Finally, drizzle your creamy herb dressing evenly over the entire salad. Serve immediately, and enjoy your fresh, colorful chopped salad with juicy grilled steak!
This recipe promises a delightful balance of flavors, fresh vegetables, and a rich dressing, making it a fantastic choice for a quick and filling meal. Enjoy! 🌿🥩🥗
FAQ for Easy Chopped Salad With Juicy Grilled Steak
Can I Use Other Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank and sirloin are great options, you can also use ribeye, porterhouse, or even chicken for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat.
What Can I Substitute for Feta or Goat Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or goat cheese, feel free to use shredded cheddar, crumbled blue cheese, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Each will bring a different taste and texture to the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time! Chop the veggies and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just grill the steak fresh before serving for the best taste. Dress the salad right before serving to keep it crisp.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess!
