Craving that satisfying Outback Steakhouse Steak Salad but don't want to leave the house? This easy copycat recipe lets you recreate this delicious and healthy meal right in your own kitchen! It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a light yet impressive meal for guests. Get ready to enjoy a juicy steak, crisp greens, and a creamy, zesty dressing – all from the comfort of your home! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. It's a testament to the power of homemade cooking, resulting in a delicious dish that rivals restaurant quality.
Ingredients:
- For the Steak:
- 1 (8-ounce) sirloin steak, about 1-inch thick
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Salad:
- 5 ounces mixed greens (spring mix, romaine, etc.)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled bleu cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup bacon bits (optional, but highly recommended!)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Steak:
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet (or other heavy-bottomed pan) over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your preferred internal temperature.
- Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
Assembling the Salad:
- While the steak rests, prepare the salad. Combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Top with the crumbled bleu cheese and bacon bits (if using).
- Slice the rested steak thinly and arrange it on top of the salad.
Making the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
Tips for the Best Outback Steak Salad:
- Steak Selection: Sirloin is a great choice for this salad because it’s flavorful and relatively lean. You can also use other cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, depending on your preference and budget.
- Don't Overcook the Steak: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. Overcooked steak will be tough and dry.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor.
- Dressing Variation: Feel free to adjust the dressing to your taste. Add more or less vinegar, honey, or Dijon mustard to suit your preferences.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for a single serving is:
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version. This makes for a healthy and delicious alternative.
This Outback Steakhouse Steak Salad recipe is a fantastic example of a quick, easy, and delicious meal that's also relatively healthy. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know what you think in the comments below!