Grilled Steak Salad with Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing

Summer is the perfect season to enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of a delicious, seasonal salad. As the weather warms up, the idea of a light yet satisfying meal becomes even more appealing. We check off all of these boxes with one single recipe: Our Grilled Steak Salad with Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing.

This salad strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and refreshment, making it a stellar choice for any summer meal, whether it’s a casual outdoor gathering or a more formal dining occasion. It features an exquisite blend of smoky, tender grilled steak and a bounty of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade dressing.

In this salad, the grilled steak is the star of the show, cooked to perfection and sliced into succulent strips that pair wonderfully with the cool crispness of mixed greens, juicy tomatoes, sharp onions, sweet corn and creamy avocado.

The Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing, a delightful concoction that’s both easy to whip up and irresistibly flavorful, ties all these components together with its creamy texture and a harmonious blend of sweetness and acidity.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this grilled steak salad is a must-try. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this summery feast at home.

Grilled Steak Salad with Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing: A Summer Delight

Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with the Grilled Steak Salad with Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing. This recipe serves eight and is a wonderful choice for those on a weight loss plan, with each serving containing only 242 calories. On the Nutrisystem plan, it counts as two PowerFuels, one Extra and one Vegetable, making it a balanced meal option.

Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients

The key components for this savory salad include lean sirloin or flank steak seasoned simply with black pepper and a pinch of salt. The robust flavors of the meat pair beautifully with a fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, gouda cheese and creamy avocado.

Homemade Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing

The dressing is a delightful blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a touch of honey, Dijon mustard and minced garlic. This mix creates a tangy and slightly sweet dressing that complements the hearty elements of the salad perfectly.

Easy Preparation Steps

To prepare the salad, begin by letting the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. Heat your grill to high or a stovetop pan to medium-high. Season the steak well and grill it to your preferred level of doneness, typically three to five minutes per side. Let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling, then slice it thinly.

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, tomatoes, onions, corn, cheese and avocado. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and pour it over the salad. Top the mixed salad with the freshly sliced steak to create a visually appealing and nutritiously satisfying meal.

Customizing Your Grilled Steak Salad

One of the joys of preparing salads is the versatility and room for personalization they offer. This Grilled Steak Salad can be customized in a variety of ways to keep it exciting every time you serve it.

Alternative Protein Options

While lean sirloin or flank steak is the traditional choice for this salad, you can easily swap the steak for other proteins to suit your preference or dietary requirements. Grilled chicken breast, shrimp or even slices of seared tuna can make excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian option, grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in a bit of the Honey Dijon Dressing before cooking can provide a hearty protein source.

Cheese Varieties

Gouda cheese adds a nice creaminess and slight nuttiness to the salad, but other cheeses can also enhance the dish. Try crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan. For a dairy-free version, a vegan cheese substitute or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can offer a similar savory note.

Dressing Adjustments

The Honey Dijon Balsamic Dressing is central to the salad’s flavor, but the dressing can be modified to fit your taste or health considerations. For a lower calorie option, reduce the olive oil and increase the vinegar for a sharper bite. Adding herbs like basil or oregano can introduce a new layer of flavor.

Additional Toppings and Mix-Ins

Introducing different vegetables or toppings can transform the texture and flavor of your salad. Consider adding sliced bell peppers for crunch, roasted Brussels sprouts for a bit of earthiness, or fresh berries for a hint of sweetness. Nuts like walnuts or almonds can add crunch and additional nutritional value. For those who enjoy a bit of extra spice, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing can provide a warm kick.

By experimenting with these customizations, you can tailor the Grilled Steak Salad to perfectly suit any occasion or palate, making it a versatile dish that never gets boring. Use the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more inspiration and information on ingredient swaps or add-ins.