Name: Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin steak; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ teaspoon dijon mustard; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon coarse salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); ½ red onion (thinly sliced); 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese (crumbled); 2 heads endive lettuce (outer leaves removed, halved and roughly chopped into 2 inch pieces); 6 cups mixed spring greens; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling corn); 2 tablespoons basil leaves (minced); 2 tablespoons parsley (minced); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ teaspoon dijon mustard; Dash salt; Dash fresh ground black pepper

Introduction to Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Have you ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed by takeout options and tired of the same old meal routines? Homemade salads like the Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn are not just a delicious solution; they're a culinary adventure that fits perfectly into the busy lives of young professionals. Not only are they customizable to your taste, but they also pack a nutritional punch that can boost your energy during the workday.

Incorporating fresh ingredients, this salad encourages creativity in the kitchen. Imagine marinating your sirloin steak to perfection, grilling the corn, and combining it all with vibrant greens and tangy Gorgonzola. It’s a delightful way to celebrate seasonal produce while ensuring you are nourishing your body.

Plus, making your own salads can save money compared to frequent dining out. Studies show that homemade meals can be up to 50% cheaper than takeout! Why not invest in your health and your wallet while impressing friends and family with a dish that's both stunning and satisfying? Gather the ingredients, and let’s whip up this flavorful salad that’s sure to become a go-to in your weeknight rotation!

Ingredients for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Creating a delicious Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn starts with a well-thought-out selection of ingredients. Let’s break them down into three categories to make your shopping trip a breeze!

Marinade Ingredients

To give your sirloin steak a flavor boost, you'll need:

1 lb sirloin steak
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon coarse salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

These ingredients work together to create a marinade that infuses the steak with rich, savory flavors.

Salad Ingredients

For the refreshing salad base, gather these vibrant components:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
2 heads endive lettuce, roughly chopped
6 cups mixed spring greens
1 corn on the cob, grilled

This mix of fresh veggies and the bold Gorgonzola makes every bite delightful!

Gremolata and Vinaigrette Ingredients

Finally, for finishing touches:

Gremolata:

2 tablespoons basil leaves, minced
2 tablespoons parsley, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Dash of salt and fresh ground black pepper

These ingredients not only elevate the flavor but also add a balance of freshness to your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad. For more insights on shopping for fresh ingredients, check out this guide on selecting seasonal produce!

Step-by-step preparation of Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Creating a delicious Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn may seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be savoring every bite in no time. Let’s dive in!

Marinate the steak

Start by creating a flavorful marinade that will enhance your steak's taste. In a medium bowl, mix together the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon coarse salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Once your marinade is well-blended, place the 1 lb sirloin steak in a large zip-top bag, pour the marinade over the steak, seal it, and give it a gentle shake to ensure the steak is fully coated. Pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This marinating step is crucial—it makes the steak juicy and flavorful!

Prepare the gremolata

While the steak is marinating, let’s whip up some gremolata for a fresh zing. In a small bowl, combine:

2 tablespoons minced basil leaves
2 tablespoons minced parsley
1 clove minced garlic
1 tablespoon lemon zest

This zesty mix will add a wonderful herbaceous note to your salad and pairs beautifully with the richness of Gorgonzola.

Grill the corn

Grilling adds a delightful smokiness to your corn. Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Drizzle the corn on the cob with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Use some tongs to add the corn to the grill and cook, turning occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and the kernels begin to soften. Once done, let the corn cool before slicing off the kernels.

Grill the steak

With the corn off the grill, it’s time for the star of the dish—the steak! Remove it from the fridge and place it on your hot grill or grill pan. Grill for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side for a perfect rare to medium-rare finish. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This resting period really helps keep the juices sealed in! Slice thinly against the grain before layering it on your salad.

Make the vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together:

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
A dash of salt and fresh ground black pepper

This simple vinaigrette adds a punch of flavor that you won’t want to skimp on!

Assemble the salad

Now comes the fun part: assembly! In a large bowl, toss together half of the vinaigrette, half of the gremolata, mixed spring greens, endive, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, sliced corn, and thinly sliced red onion. Lay the sliced steak on top of your beautiful salad and drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette and gremolata as desired.

And there you have it—a stunning Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite of this incredible combination of flavors.

Variations on Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Add Seasonal Vegetables

One of the best aspects of the Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad is its versatility. You can elevate this dish by incorporating seasonal vegetables like grilled zucchini, roasted bell peppers, or even fresh asparagus. Not only will this add a burst of color to your salad, but you'll also enhance the nutritional profile, making it even more satisfying! Think about including radishes for a crunchy bite or artichoke hearts for a unique flavor twist.

Substitute Proteins for Dietary Preferences

If steak isn’t your preferred protein, fear not! This salad is just as delightful with alternatives like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also try adding Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a savory, smoky flavor without the beef. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy the deliciousness of your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad, no matter their dietary needs!

For additional tips on customizing salads, consider checking out resources like EatingWell for fresh ideas and seasonal ingredients.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Tips for Perfect Grilling

To achieve that ideal sear on your sirloin steak, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat before placing the meat on it. This ensures a nice caramelization and locks in the juices. Always let the steak rest for five minutes after grilling; this keeps it tender and flavorful. For the corn, rotate it occasionally while grilling to get even char marks and a delicious smoky flavor.

Notes on Ingredient Freshness

Fresh ingredients are key to bringing out the best in your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad. Opt for locally sourced mixed greens and endive lettuce, as their crispness enhances the overall dish. Look for ripe cherry tomatoes and don’t forget to check the expiration dates on your dairy products like Gorgonzola. Freshness directly impacts flavor, so make sure your ingredients are vibrant and in peak condition for the most delicious result! For more tips on choosing fresh produce, check out this resource.

Serving suggestions for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Ideal accompaniments

Elevate your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with complementary sides and beverages. Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, bring a splash of color and additional nutrients to your meal. For a crunchy texture, consider serving homemade garlic bread or artisanal baguette slices. When it comes to drinks, opt for refreshing iced tea or sparkling water infused with lemon and mint to enhance the vibrant flavors of the salad.

Serving size recommendations

This delightful salad serves approximately 4 people, making it perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. If you're hosting a larger group, consider doubling the recipe but ensure you adjust your grill and prep time accordingly. Leftovers? The Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad makes a fantastic lunch the next day — just store the components separately to preserve freshness!

Timing Your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad Perfectly

When it comes to whipping up the Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn, managing your time effectively will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s how to break it down:

Marinade Time

Start by marinating your steak, which takes about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a tender and tasty steak!

Grill Time

Once marinated, grilling the corn and steak will take another 15 to 20 minutes. You'll want to grill the corn for about 10 minutes and the steak for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.

Total Preparation Time

In total, plan for about 1 hour to complete your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad. This includes both the marinade and grilling times, making it a doable dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

With these timeframes in hand, you'll be ready to create a delicious meal that's sure to impress! For more cooking tips, check out expert sources like Food Network and Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

When you indulge in a Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad, you're not just enjoying a delicious meal—you're fueling your body with essential nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what each serving offers:

Calories per serving

This vibrant salad clocks in at around 450 calories per serving, making it a satisfying option that won’t break your calorie bank.

Protein content

Packed with protein, thanks to the sirloin steak and Gorgonzola cheese, you’ll get about 30 grams of protein, perfect for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full.

Key vitamins and minerals

The fresh ingredients deliver a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C from the mixed greens and tomatoes, calcium from the Gorgonzola, and potassium from the grilled corn. This blend not only tastes great but also contributes to overall health.

For a deeper dive into the benefits of green leafy veggies, check out the Nutritional Guidelines from the USDA. It’s a great resource to learn more about how ingredients in your salad can support a balanced diet!

FAQs about Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad components in advance. Marinate the steak and grill the corn a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. You can also chop your greens and slice the onions ahead of time. Just keep the vinaigrette and gremolata separate to avoid sogginess. Mix everything just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I use instead of Gorgonzola?

If Gorgonzola isn't your thing or you prefer a milder flavor, you have several delicious alternatives. Try using feta cheese for a tangy twist, or blue cheese for a bolder flavor. For a non-cheese option, consider adding avocado for a creamy texture. Each will bring its own unique taste while still keeping your salad delightful!

How do I store leftovers?

To enjoy your salad later, keep each component in separate, airtight containers in the fridge. This will help maintain their freshness. The greens, tomatoes, and corn can stay for about 2-3 days, while the steak is best consumed within a day or two. If you're looking for a quick meal, you can revisit these fabulous flavors without too much hassle!

Conclusion on Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad

The Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad offers a delightful blend of robust flavors and health benefits. With tender grilled steak, rich Gorgonzola, and nutrient-packed greens, this dish is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings, you’ll savor every bite!

For more salad inspiration, explore resources from Healthline or try out different proteins like grilled chicken for variety!