Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further! This Black & Blue Salad is the perfect quick dinner idea, bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients. It's a simple recipe, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Get ready to experience the delightful combination of sweet, juicy blueberries and savory, grilled steak – a true taste sensation! This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
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For the Steak:
- 1 (1-pound) sirloin steak, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Salad:
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 4 ounces crumbled blue cheese
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup candied pecans (optional)
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For the Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Steak: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and rub it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
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Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, blue cheese, blueberries, and red onion. Add the sliced steak.
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Dress and Serve: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with candied pecans, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in a balsamic marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- If you don't have a grill, you can pan-sear the steak in a cast iron skillet.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of blue cheese and blueberries to your liking.
- Other additions like crumbled bacon or avocado would complement this salad beautifully.
Variations:
- Chicken Black & Blue Salad: Substitute grilled chicken breast for the steak.
- Vegetarian Black & Blue Salad: Omit the steak and add some roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 (depending on steak size and additions)
- Protein: 25-35g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Black & Blue Salad is a fantastic example of a quick and easy recipe that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know what you think!