For the grilled steak:
1 pound boneless, sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the salad:
1 cup mixed greens
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Grill steak: Grill the steak over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Assemble salad: In a bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
Serve: Place the grilled steak on top of the salad and drizzle with the dressing.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for the steak.
You can substitute the mixed greens with another type of greens, such as spinach or arugula.
Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Enjoy this healthy and flavorful Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack!
Grilled steak and avocado salad stack is a perfect fusion of smoky, tender steak and creamy, fresh avocado combined with crisp greens and a variety of fresh flavors. This dish not only makes for a visually appealing stack, but it is also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making it both satisfying and nourishing. In this guide, we will walk through each component of this salad, providing you with detailed steps to create a masterpiece that combines taste with nutritional benefits.
Why Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack?
Combining grilled steak with avocado in a salad stack elevates the dish to a whole new level. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. Here’s why this combination is a powerhouse for your diet:
- High Protein Content: The steak provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Healthy Fats from Avocado: Avocado is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Fiber and Nutrients: The leafy greens and vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and magnesium.
A perfectly grilled steak and avocado salad stack is a delightful meal choice that keeps you full and satisfied while delivering important nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Steak
Marinating the steak is a crucial step for infusing flavor and tenderness. To prepare the marinade, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, pepper, and salt in a bowl. Place the steak in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For optimal flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring that it reaches about 450°F for the best grilling results. If using a stovetop, a grill pan will also work effectively.
- Grill the Steak
Place the marinated steak on the preheated grill. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes for a medium-rare finish, or adjust according to your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure precision:
- Rare: 120°F
- Medium-Rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the steak rests, prep the salad components. Slice the avocado, tomato, cucumber, and red onion thinly to layer easily. Rinse and pat dry the baby greens, and prepare the herbs and cheese if using.
- Assemble the Salad Stack
Begin assembling the salad stack on individual plates for a visually stunning presentation.
- Layer the Greens: Start with a bed of baby greens as the base.
- Add Avocado Slices: Place avocado slices on top of the greens.
- Add Tomatoes and Cucumbers: Layer with sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, adding texture and color to the stack.
- Add Grilled Steak Slices: Carefully place the thinly sliced steak over the vegetables, allowing the juices to infuse the layers below.
- Top with Red Onion and Cheese: For a burst of flavor, add thinly sliced red onion and a sprinkle of feta or blue cheese, if desired.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro for a finishing touch.
- Drizzle with Dressing
Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad stack just before serving to enhance the flavors of the grilled steak and avocado.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack
- Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak are ideal for grilling, providing tenderness and flavor.
- Get the Grill Temperature Right: A high heat ensures the perfect sear, locking in flavor and creating a beautiful crust on the steak.
- Use Fresh, Ripe Avocado: Avocados should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch to provide the perfect creamy texture.
- Let the Steak Rest: Allowing the steak to rest after grilling ensures maximum juiciness and tenderness.
- Slice Steak Thinly Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain reduces chewiness and enhances the tenderness of each bite.
Nutritional Benefits of Grilled Steak and Avocado Salad Stack
This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
- High Protein Content: Steak is rich in protein, aiding in muscle recovery and keeping you satiated longer.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Avocado contributes monounsaturated fats, known to support heart health and lower bad cholesterol levels.
- Vitamin-Rich: Fresh vegetables add vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, folate, and magnesium, essential for overall wellness.
- Antioxidant Boost: Olive oil and herbs like parsley and basil provide antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, supporting immune health.
Serving Suggestions
For a balanced meal, pair this salad with a whole grain side such as quinoa or couscous, or a slice of whole-grain bread for extra fiber. A glass of light red wine like Pinot Noir pairs well, bringing out the flavors of the steak and avocado.