Craving a quick weeknight dinner solution? This easy flank steak salad recipe is a homemade favorite, featuring grilled steak and fresh veggies, perfect for a family dinner, save for later

Easy Flank Steak Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Flank Steak Salad Recipe is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor, combining the tender richness of flank steak with the freshness of mixed greens, all tied together with a zesty and aromatic dressing. It’s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, requiring minimal effort but yielding impressive results. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessibility and versatility, allowing you to use everyday ingredients and customize it to your taste preferences. Whether you’re a culinary novice or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to delight your senses and leave you wanting more.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of grilled flank steak, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a balanced and refreshing flavor profile that is easy to achieve with commonly found ingredients.
Ease of preparation: This recipe requires minimal preparation time, with most of the work involving simple chopping and mixing, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents beautifully and tastes sophisticated, making it ideal for entertaining guests or special meals.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include flank steak, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and a homemade vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and herbs like parsley and dill. For practical substitutions, you can use skirt steak or ribeye in place of flank steak, and customize the greens and vegetables based on what’s in season and your personal preferences. The feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the mixed greens, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber and red onion, and crumble the feta cheese. Set these aside in separate bowls.
Step 2: Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Grill the steak over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion slices. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chopped herbs to make the vinaigrette. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 4: To assemble the salad, place a portion of the salad mixture on a plate, top with sliced flank steak, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Handy Tips

Make sure to let the steak rest before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute and the steak stays tender.
Don’t overdress the salad, as this can make it soggy. Instead, dress it just before serving and allow each guest to add more dressing if desired.
Consider adding other ingredients to customize the salad to your taste, such as diced avocado, sliced almonds, or grilled chicken.

Heat Control

When grilling the flank steak, it’s essential to control the heat to achieve the perfect level of doneness. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperatures. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F, for medium it should be around 140-145°F, and for medium-well it should be around 150-155°F. Always let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this salad comes from the fresh vegetables and the crumbled feta cheese. To enhance the crunch, consider adding other crunchy elements like sliced almonds, diced apples, or crispy bacon bits. The key is to balance the textures so that each bite includes a mix of tender steak, crunchy vegetables, and creamy cheese.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan for grilling the steak, as these retain heat well and can achieve a nice sear.
Don’t press down on the steak with your spatula while it’s grilling, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.
Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure it cooks more evenly.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir before serving and consider adding a bit more dressing if it seems dry.
Leftover steak can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Slice it thinly and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for salads.
Consider using glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids for storing leftovers, as these can help keep the food fresh and prevent contamination.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this salad, a beautiful and practical way to package it is in a large, shallow glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Add a decorative touch by topping the salad with edible flowers, pomegranate seeds, or a sprinkle of crumbled cheese. Include a small bottle of homemade vinaigrette on the side, along with a baguette or crackers for a complete meal. Finish it off with a ribbon or gift tag and a personal note for a thoughtful and delicious gift.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder to the steak for a smoky, spicy flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: Add some diced mango, pineapple, or peaches to the salad for a sweet and savory twist. You could also sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or parmesan for a different flavor profile, or use grilled chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a change of pace.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the steak is too tough, it may be overcooked. Try cooking it to a lower internal temperature next time. If the salad is too soggy, it may be overdressed. Try dressing it just before serving and using less dressing overall.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find flank steak, try using skirt steak or ribeye instead. If you don’t have mixed greens, use arugula, spinach, or kale as a substitute.
Over/undercooking signs: If the steak is overcooked, it will be dry and tough. If it’s undercooked, it will be raw and pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect level of doneness.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked steak for up to 3 months. Simply slice it thinly, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and slice it thinly before adding it to the salad.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Just be sure to check the ingredients of the vinaigrette and any added toppings to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Easy Flank Steak Salad Recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation time, and impressive presentation, it’s a great option for busy home cooks and experienced chefs alike. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating a beautiful and tasty meal. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as it becomes a staple in your kitchen!

Easy Grilled Flank Steak Salad Recipe