Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I've got something truly mouthwatering to share with you: my recipe for the Ultimate Grilled Steak Salad. Now, I know what you're thinking - salad, really? But trust me, this ain't your average bowl of greens.

We're talking about tender, flavorful steak grilled to perfection, nestled on a bed of fresh veggies and topped with creamy avocado and crispy croutons. It's a salad that eats like a meal, and let me tell you, it's absolutely drool-worthy. So, grab your apron and let's dive into this deliciousness together!

Ingredients & Instructions: Crafting Your Ultimate Steak Salad

Ingredients

1 1/2Lb - New York Strip Steak OR Flank Steak
Steak Seasoning
- 1 Tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoons black pepper
- 1 Tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1/2 Tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 Cups - Spring Mix
1 Small - Red Onion, Sliced
1 Cup - Medium Diced Cucumbers
2 Each - Avocado, Halved and Sliced
2 Cup - Our Homemade Croutons (or store-bought)
1 Cup - Our Homemade Buttermilk Dressing (or store-bought)this section is for recipe info and such

Tools Needed

Grill OR Stovetop Grill Pan
Sheetpan OR Large Plate (Big Enough To Fit All The Steak)
Measuring Spoons & Measuring Cups
1 Small Mixing Bowl
1 Large Mixing Bowl
Tongs
Chef's Knife & Cutting Board

With these tools on hand, you'll be all set to prepare and enjoy your delicious steak salad!

Prep

You can do several preparations ahead of time to make assembling the Ultimate Steak Salad quicker and more convenient:

Prepare the Steak Seasoning: Mix all the spices and herbs for the steak seasoning ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This way, when you're ready to grill the steak, you can simply season it without needing to measure out each spice individually.
Slice the Red Onions: You can slice the red onions in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be grilled just before assembling the salad.
Make the Buttermilk Dressing: Prepare the buttermilk dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. This allows the flavors to meld together, and you can simply give it a good stir before using it on the salad.
Prepare Fresh Croutons: Cube bread and toss it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs (such as thyme or rosemary). Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and crispy. Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to use.

By completing these preparations in advance, you'll save time and effort when it comes to putting together the Ultimate Steak Salad later on. Just remember to store each component properly to maintain freshness and quality.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak: Start by laying out your steaks flat on the sheet pan, and pat dry with a paper towel on both sides. This helps the steak get nice and crispy when it is grilled. Then season your steak generously with the steak seasoning mixture evenly and rub the seasoning into the meat on both sides, ensuring it's well coated.

2. Grill the Steak and Red Onion: Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Make sure your grill or pan is hot and has been before placing the steak. Place the seasoned steak on the grill and cook to your desired doneness, flipping once halfway through. For medium-rare, this usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side depending on the thickness of the steak.

While the steak is grilling, place the sliced red onion circles on the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they're slightly charred and tender. Remove both the steak and the grilled red onions from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Prepare the Salad: While the steak is resting, assemble the salad. Start by slicing the cucumbers and avocado. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, avocado slices, and croutons.

5. Assemble the Salad: Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. Add the sliced steak and grilled red onion circles to the bowl with the cucumbers, avocado, and croutons. Drizzle the buttermilk dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

6. Serve: Divide the steak salad among serving plates or bowls. Garnish with extra croutons if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your ultimate steak salad!

This salad combines the richness of grilled steak with the freshness of cucumbers and avocado, all tied together with a tangy buttermilk dressing. It's perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal!

Grill Master's Guide: Perfecting Your Steak

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Ultimate Grilled Steak Salad turns out perfectly every time:
1. Choose the Right Cut: Opt for New York Strip Steak or Flank Steak for best results. These cuts are flavorful and tender when grilled to perfection.
2. Season Generously: Don't be shy with the steak seasoning! Ensure both sides of the steak are well coated for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill or grill pan is nice and hot before adding the steak. This helps to achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in the juices.
4. Mind the Thickness: Adjust grilling time based on the thickness of your steak. Thicker cuts will require a bit more time on the grill.
5. Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures a juicy and tender result.
6. Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the steak, be sure to cut against the grain for a more tender bite.
7. Prep Ahead: Take advantage of prepping components like the steak seasoning, red onions, and buttermilk dressing in advance to streamline the cooking process.
8. Customize Your Salad: Feel free to get creative with your salad ingredients! Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
9. Don't Forget the Dressing: The homemade buttermilk dressing adds a creamy tanginess that ties the whole salad together. Drizzle it on just before serving for maximum freshness.
10. Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed right away while the steak is still warm and the veggies are crisp. So, gather your friends and family, plate up, and savor every delicious bite!
With these tips in mind, you'll be well-equipped to master the art of crafting the Ultimate Grilled Steak Salad with ease and confidence. Happy grilling!