Strawberry Steak Salad with Homemade Balsamic Dressing
User Reviews
5
Strawberry Steak Salad with Homemade Balsamic Dressing
Description
Strawberry Steak Salad with Homemade Balsamic Dressing features pan-seared sirloin steak paired with fresh strawberries, avocado, and looseleaf lettuce. The salad is topped with a balsamic dressing made from extra virgin olive oil, balsamic and red wine vinegars, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and seasoning, shaken together to create a zesty and slightly sweet dressing. The steak is seared on the stove and finished in a hot oven for optimal doneness, then rested to retain juices before slicing.
The strawberries and avocado add refreshing fruity and creamy textures to contrast the savory meat. The balsamic glaze drizzled over adds a further sweet tang. This combination provides layered flavors and textures from juicy, tender steak to crisp greens and soft fruit, making the salad balanced and interesting.
Serve this salad as a standalone meal for a light dinner or lunch. Adding extras like goat cheese, roasted asparagus, or caramelized onions can enhance the flavors and make it more substantial. The balsamic dressing holds well and can be made ahead, and the avocado is protected from browning by a drizzle of lime juice and oil.
Resting the steak is essential for juiciness and flavor. Using looseleaf or a spring mix for the greens works well, and grilling the steak instead of pan-searing is an excellent alternative. The flavor and texture of this salad depend on fresh, quality ingredients and careful preparation.
Ingredients
FOR THE SALAD:
- 10-12 oz sirloin steak
- olive oil as needed, or avocado oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 4-6 oz lettuce washed and chopped, looseleaf
- 8-10 oz strawberry as many as you'd like!, fresh
- 1 avocado large
- 2-3 tsp balsamic glaze optional but delicious!, sweet
FOR THE DRESSING:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil quality
- 2-3 TBSP balsamic vinegar extra to taste
- 1 TBSP red wine vinegar
- 1 TBSP Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic smashed and minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Pat steaks dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides. For best results, allow steak to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add to pan and sear until browned, approx. 2 minutes for the first side and 1 minute for the second side.
- Using a potholder, place skillet, steaks and all, in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until desired internal temperature is reached. If using steaks larger than 6 oz each, adjust times as needed.
- Remove from oven (potholder! grab one!) and place steaks on a plate. Cover with foil and allow to rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting is crucial for a juicy steak and gives us ample time to make our salad and dressing!
- Chop your lettuce, strawberries, and avocado. Drizzle avocado with lime juice and/or oil to keep things gorgeously green.
- Combine dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake well. Feel free to adjust levels of balsamic and honey to taste. The above measurements are my dream combo!
- Once rested, thinly slice your steak into bite-sized pieces. Toss together greens, berries, and avocado then top with your steak. Drizzle with a little of the dressing and dive in!
Notes
- Use ruffled looseleaf lettuce or a combination of spinach and Romaine for best texture.
- To keep avocado from browning, lightly coat slices with fresh lime juice and a drizzle of olive or avocado oil.
- Grilling the steak instead of pan-searing can add a smoky flavor to the salad.
- Optional toppings include goat cheese, roasted asparagus, green beans, or caramelized onions to add variety.
- The balsamic dressing can be adjusted to taste by varying the vinegar amounts before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 396 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 396kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 34g | 68% |
| Fat | 21g | 32% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 86mg | 29% |
| Sodium | 104mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 1255mg | 27% |
| Fiber | 9g | 36% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 4345IU | 87% |
| Vitamin C | 81.9mg | 91% |
| Calcium | 90mg | 9% |
| Iron | 3.8mg | 21% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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