Are you craving a hearty, flavorful salad that's as satisfying as it is refreshing? Then look no further! This Cowboy Salad, inspired by the culinary queen herself, Ree Drummond (the Pioneer Woman), is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. It's packed with juicy steak, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without a lot of fuss. Get ready to experience a taste of the American West!
Ingredients:
This easy recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights.
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For the Steak:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
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For the Salad:
- 1 (16 oz) bag of mixed greens
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced
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For the Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
This quick dinner idea comes together in under 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Steak: Season the steak strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak until desired doneness, about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black beans, corn, and cheddar cheese. If using, add the diced avocado.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine and Serve: Add the sliced steak to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cowboy Salad:
- Steak Selection: For the best results, choose a lean cut of steak like sirloin or flank steak.
- Doneness: Cook the steak to your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables to your salad, such as shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, or jicama.
- Dressing Adjustment: Adjust the amount of dressing to your liking. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar or add a touch of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. However, it’s best to add the steak just before serving to maintain its optimal texture.
Variations:
- Grilled Chicken: Substitute grilled chicken breast for the steak for a lighter option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicier flavor.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or crumbled cotija cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This healthy meal provides a good balance of protein and nutrients. Calorie counts will vary depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to use a nutritional calculator for personalized data.
This Cowboy Salad is a truly satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible! It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!