Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s make sure you’ve got everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for this steak salad:
For the Salad
- Steak: Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak works beautifully. Choose one that’s well-marbled for maximum flavor.
- Greens: A mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine adds texture and variety.
- Cherry tomatoes: These bring a juicy burst of sweetness.
- Cucumber: For a refreshing crunch.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, tangy bite.
- Optional extras: Avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or roasted vegetables.
For the Blue Cheese Dressing
- Blue cheese: Choose a high-quality, creamy variety like Gorgonzola or Roquefort.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream: For a creamy base.
- Mayonnaise: Adds richness.
- Buttermilk: To thin out the dressing and add tang.
- Garlic powder and black pepper: For seasoning.
Simple Pantry Staples
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar for marinating and seasoning the steak and veggies.
How to Make Steak Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Steak
The secret to a great steak salad is perfectly cooked steak. Here’s how to nail it:
- Marinate the steak: Rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Cook to perfection: Heat a skillet or grill to high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness.
- Rest the steak: After cooking, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices. Slice thinly against the grain for tender bites.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
Step 2: Prepare the Blue Cheese Dressing
Homemade dressing makes all the difference. Here’s how to whip it up:
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix crumbled blue cheese, Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, and buttermilk.
- Season to taste: Add garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth but leave some blue cheese chunks for texture.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dressing while you assemble the salad for the flavors to meld.
Quick Hack: If you’re short on time, blend the ingredients for a smoother, creamier dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Now for the fun part—bringing it all together.
- Layer the greens: Start with a generous base of arugula, spinach, and romaine.
- Add toppings: Scatter cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion across the greens.
- Top with steak: Arrange the sliced steak over the salad for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Drizzle dressing: Pour the blue cheese dressing over the salad or serve it on the side for dipping.
Extra Touch: Sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese and freshly cracked black pepper on top for added flair.
Wrapping It Up
Steak salad with blue cheese dressing isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef in your own kitchen, without requiring hours of effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a date-night meal, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers on every front: flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and dive into the delicious world of steak salad. And remember—don’t skimp on that blue cheese dressing! It’s the creamy crown jewel that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
