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Instructions
- Prepare the Steak:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad Stack:
- On individual serving plates, arrange a bed of mixed salad greens. Top with slices of grilled steak and avocado. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and red onion over the stack. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
- Drizzle and Serve:
- Drizzle the prepared dressing and a bit of balsamic glaze over each salad stack. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, flavorful combination!
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack
- Choose a Good Cut of Steak: Ribeye or sirloin work well for this dish, offering both tenderness and flavor. Make sure to grill the steak to your preferred level of doneness, but keep in mind that medium-rare provides the juiciest result.
- Use Ripe Avocados: The avocados should be firm yet give slightly to pressure for the best texture. If they’re too soft, they may fall apart when slicing.
- Rest the Steak Before Slicing: Letting the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
The Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack is not just a salad; it’s a meal that satisfies all your senses. The smoky, grilled steak provides heartiness, while the creamy avocado adds richness. The salad greens, tomatoes, and red onion bring freshness, and the feta offers a salty, tangy bite that rounds out the flavors. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with healthy ingredients, making it perfect for a balanced meal.
Variations to Try
This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences:
- Substitute the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add Grilled Veggies: Enhance the dish by grilling some bell peppers, asparagus, or zucchini along with the steak.
- Make It Spicy: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the salad or add a few slices of grilled jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Try a Different Protein: Swap out the steak for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even salmon for a different yet equally delicious version.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack makes for a filling meal on its own, but it also pairs well with light side dishes:
- Garlic Bread or Baguette Slices: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
- Roasted Potatoes: A side of crispy roasted potatoes can complement the flavors of the grilled steak.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn makes an excellent addition to this fresh dish.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover salad components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak should be consumed within 2-3 days, while the salad ingredients will last for about a day. Keep the dressing in a jar for up to a week.
- Reheat the Steak Carefully: If you need to warm up the leftover steak, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Conclusion
The Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack is a dish that brings together a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. It’s an excellent choice when you want something that feels indulgent yet is still healthy and fresh. The combination of smoky grilled steak, creamy avocado, crisp salad greens, and tangy dressing creates a delightful culinary experience that’s easy enough for a casual weeknight meal but elegant enough for special occasions.
Try this recipe for a wholesome and flavorful twist on a classic steak salad, and enjoy the taste of grilled perfection in every bite!