Welcome to a dish that combines the heartiness of steak tacos with the freshness of a salad, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and vibrant. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or you’re just craving something deliciously different, this recipe is your ticket to flavor town.
Why This Recipe Works
- The marinade infuses the steak with bold flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
- Combining warm steak with cool salad ingredients creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
- It’s customizable, allowing everyone to tweak the toppings to their liking.
- Perfect for meal prep, as components can be prepared ahead and assembled when ready to eat.
- It’s a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs, making it a wholesome choice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Equipment Needed
- Grill or large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Marinate the Steak
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced flank steak, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook the Steak
Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, corn, red onion, and cilantro. Add the crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
Assemble the Salad
Top the salad with the warm steak strips and shredded cheese. Drizzle with ranch dressing or your favorite dressing.
Serve Immediately
Enjoy your steak taco salad fresh, ensuring the warmth of the steak slightly wilts the greens for the perfect texture contrast.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more flavorful steak, consider marinating it overnight. The acids in the lime juice will tenderize the meat, while the spices permeate deeply. If you’re short on time, a 30-minute marinade will still yield tasty results. When cooking the steak, avoid moving it around too much to get a nice sear. Letting the steak rest after cooking ensures the juices redistribute, making it more succulent. For the salad, adding the tortilla chips last keeps them crunchy. If you’re meal prepping, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the steak for chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Use a different dressing, like cilantro lime or chipotle ranch, to change the flavor profile.
- Add black beans or pinto beans for extra fiber and protein.
- Include different veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and nutrition.
- For a low-carb version, skip the tortilla chips or use a lettuce wrap instead of a salad base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for its flavor and tenderness when sliced thinly, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu. Marinate them similarly for a flavorful punch, and follow the same preparation steps.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the steak, salad greens, and dressing in individual containers in the fridge. Assemble when ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Summary
This steak taco salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a hearty yet fresh meal option. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and great for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to entertaining guests.
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