Best Balsamic Steak Salad Recipe (Creamy Vinaigrette)

Balsamic steak salad is the perfect way to enjoy juicy steak in a fresh, flavorful dish.

Whether you use ribeye steak or skirt steak, the combination of balsamic vinaigrette, crumbled blue cheese, and crisp greens creates an unbeatable meal.

In this recipe, I will show you how to cook the steak to your desired doneness and build a delicious steak salad with homemade balsamic dressing.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 lb ribeye steak or york strip steak
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt and pepper
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)

For the Salad:

• 5 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, romaine, or arugula)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
• ¼ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp lime juice (optional)

Instructions:

I love making this balsamic steak salad because it is easy, delicious, and full of bold flavors. Follow these steps to create a perfectly cooked steak and a fresh, vibrant salad.

Step 1: Cook the Steak

1. Preheat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel-lined plate and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in the pan, then sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
4. Check the internal temperature: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium.
5. Remove steak from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic.
2. Shake with a tight-fitting lid until well combined.
3. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and crumbled blue cheese.
2. Thinly slice the juicy steak against the grain and place it on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with the homemade balsamic dressing and toss lightly.
4. Serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

• Steak Selection: Ribeye provides rich marbling and tenderness, while New York strip offers a firmer bite.
• Resting the Steak: Always let the steak rest before slicing to retain its juices.
• Alternative Proteins: Swap steak for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different take on this salad.
• Storage Tips: Keep salad components separate if making ahead. Store the steak and dressing in airtight containers and assemble just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

"The key to a great balsamic steak dish is balance - letting the tangy-sweet glaze enhance the richness of the meat without overpowering it."

- ​Robert Irvine, Celebrity Chef

Tips & Variations

Here are some of my favorite ways to customize this salad to suit different preferences and dietary needs.

Protein Options

If you prefer an alternative to steak, this salad works just as well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Chicken provides a leaner protein, shrimp adds a seafood twist, and tofu makes it vegetarian-friendly while still absorbing the bold balsamic vinaigrette flavors.

Dressing Alternative

For a richer, thicker consistency, try using store-bought balsamic glaze instead of making your own balsamic vinaigrette. It has a deeper, slightly sweeter taste and pairs perfectly with crumbled blue cheese.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that marinating beef in balsamic vinegar enhances tenderness and flavor [1].

Make It a Meal Prep

I always find that prepping ingredients ahead of time makes assembling this salad quick and effortless. Whether for lunch or dinner, having everything ready to go saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Keeping Ingredients Fresh

To keep everything fresh, store each ingredient separately in an airtight container. Keep the steak and dressing apart from the greens until just before serving. This method allows you to assemble a fresh steak salad whenever you are ready to eat.

Related Articles: 

• Grilled Beef Steak Recipe
• Bulgogi Steak Recipe
• Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

Serving Suggestions

This salad is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks makes it even better. Whether you want something hearty or refreshing, these pairings enhance the flavors of the dish.

Pairing with Sides

A well-chosen side can enhance the flavors of your balsamic steak while adding texture and variety.

A crusty bread or garlic butter toast provides a satisfying crunch and soaks up the extra balsamic vinaigrette, making every bite more flavorful. For something heartier, roasted potatoes with rosemary and sea salt create a crispy contrast to the tender steak.

If you prefer a lower-carb option, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring a savory depth that pairs well with the balsamic glaze. For a lighter choice, a cucumber and tomato salad with olive oil and lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Beverage Pairing

This balsamic steak salad goes well with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, which enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon offers a refreshing contrast. For a bolder pairing, a rich Malbec or Cabernet Franc can complement the steak’s depth while balancing the tangy balsamic notes.

Cheese Pairings

Adding cheese can take your balsamic steak to the next level. A sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese or feta adds a creamy contrast to the tangy balsamic glaze. If you prefer a milder option, shaved Parmesan brings a rich, nutty flavor that complements the steak beautifully.

Sauce Enhancements

A drizzle of chimichurri or a side of horseradish sauce can elevate the dish with bold flavors. The fresh herbs in chimichurri add brightness, while horseradish brings a subtle heat that pairs well with the steak’s richness.

FAQs

References:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8249547/#