Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad: A Deliciously Fresh Recipe for Any Occasion

Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of grilled steak with the tangy notes of balsamic vinegar and the creamy texture of Gorgonzola cheese. As someone who enjoys exploring culinary creations, I can assure you that this salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Originating from the heart of Italian cuisine, the combination of these ingredients has become a favorite in many households, offering a taste of sophistication without the fuss.

People love Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The tender, juicy steak pairs beautifully with the crisp greens, while the Gorgonzola adds a luxurious creaminess that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights or a special occasion, making it a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

Marinating the Steak

To start, I like to marinate the flank steak to infuse it with flavor. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This will be our marinade.
2. Place the flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours for even more flavor.

Preparing the Salad Ingredients

While the steak is marinating, I prepare the salad ingredients. This is a great time to get everything ready so that when the steak is done, I can quickly assemble the salad.

1. Wash and dry the mixed salad greens thoroughly. I usually use a salad spinner for this, but you can also pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside.
3. Thinly slice the red onion. If you find raw onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
4. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
5. Finally, crumble the Gorgonzola cheese and set it aside.

Cooking the Steak

Now that the steak has marinated and the salad ingredients are prepped, it’s time to cook the steak. I prefer grilling, but you can also use a stovetop grill pan or broiler if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stove.
2. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the marinade.
3. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Avoid moving it around too much to get those nice grill marks.
4. Flip the steak and cook for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well done. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
5. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender.

Assembling the Salad

With the steak resting, it’s time to put everything together. This is the fun part where you can get creative!

1. In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens as the base.
2. Top the greens with the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced red onion.
3. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. This is crucial for tenderness!
4. Arrange the sliced steak on top of the salad.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and toasted walnuts over the salad.

Making the Dressing

While the salad is looking beautiful, I like to whip up a quick dressing to drizzle over the top. Here’s how I do it

Conclusion:

In summary, the Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their salad game. The combination of tender, marinated steak, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and the vibrant crunch of fresh greens creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Not only is this salad a feast for the taste buds, but it also makes for a stunning presentation, perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this salad with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious balsamic dressing, or serve it alongside a light, chilled white wine to enhance the flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this recipe by adding seasonal fruits like sliced pears or figs for a touch of sweetness, or even swapping out the Gorgonzola for feta or goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

Print