Name: Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak (or ribeye, sirloin); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine); 1 ear corn, grilled and cut off the cob; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese; 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted; 1 avocado, sliced (optional); 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup); 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make salad that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn! Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of juicy steak, tangy balsamic dressing, creamy Gorgonzola, and sweet corn creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this salad comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Perfect for meal prep: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a quick and healthy meal throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Steak:

Flank steak (or ribeye, sirloin): The steak provides a hearty and protein-packed base for the salad. You can also use your preferred cut of steak.
Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika: These seasonings add depth of flavor to the steak.

For the Salad:

Mixed greens, ear corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, walnuts or pecans, avocado: These fresh ingredients add crunch, sweetness, and creaminess to the salad.
Balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), clove garlic, salt, black pepper: The balsamic dressing ties all the flavors together with a tangy and sweet taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Marinate the steak: In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coat the steak with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak to your desired doneness, then let it rest before slicing.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Gorgonzola cheese, toasted walnuts or pecans, and avocado slices.
Make the dressing: Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Serve: Slice the steak and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle with the balsamic dressing and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For a more intense flavor, marinate the steak overnight.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your preferred level of doneness.
Swap Gorgonzola cheese for blue cheese or feta if preferred.
Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Let the steak rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute for a tender and juicy result.
Toasting the nuts before adding them to the salad enhances their flavor and crunch.
Use ripe avocado for a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients well.

Serving Suggestions:

This Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a light soup. For drinks, try a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, keep the steak and salad components separate in the fridge. Reheat the steak gently in the oven or microwave, and toss the salad with fresh dressing before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken instead of steak in this salad? Yes, grilled chicken can be a delicious alternative to steak in this recipe.
Can I omit the nuts from the salad? Absolutely, feel free to leave out the nuts or swap them for seeds for a nut-free option.
How can I make the salad vegan? Substitute the steak with grilled tofu or tempeh and omit the cheese for a vegan-friendly version.

Conclusion:

With its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients, this Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn is a must-try recipe for any salad lover. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this salad is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and let us know how you enjoyed it!