Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This spinach steak salad recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal. It's packed with protein, vitamins, and a vibrant burst of flavor that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Get ready to elevate your salad game!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs.
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For the Steak:
- 2 (6-ounce) sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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For the Salad:
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
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For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your steak by patting it dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired internal temperature. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
Prepare the Salad:
- While the steak rests, combine the spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Serve:
- Slice the rested steak and add it to the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy spinach steak salad!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Steak Salad:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two steaks, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Let it rest: Resting the steak is crucial for tenderness. Resist the urge to cut into it immediately!
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Get creative with your veggies! Bell peppers, avocado, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Chicken Salad: Substitute grilled chicken breast for the steak.
- Salmon Salad: Grilled or pan-seared salmon is another great option.
- Different Cheese: Goat cheese or blue cheese would also be tasty alternatives to feta.
- Add Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This spinach steak salad recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The combination of juicy steak, fresh greens, and tangy balsamic dressing is irresistible! Enjoy!