Craving a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying? Try my Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn! This salad combines tender flank steak, rich Gorgonzola cheese, and sweet grilled corn, all tossed together in a tangy dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy and full of flavor. I’ll take you step-by-step through the ingredients and instructions, so you can impress your family or friends in no time!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 cups mixed greens (a blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine)
– 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
Additional Ingredients
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
Optional Garnishes
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
This salad brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The flank steak gives a hearty touch, while the mixed greens add a crisp base. Gorgonzola cheese adds a creamy, tangy twist.
The balsamic vinegar and olive oil create a zesty dressing that ties it all together. Grilled corn adds a sweet crunch that makes every bite enjoyable.
For garnishes, cherry tomatoes bring color and sweetness. Avocado slices add rich creaminess. Red onion gives a sharp note, balancing the dish.
For the full recipe, check the complete guide. Enjoy creating this delightful salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating and Preparing the Steak
To marinate flank steak effectively, start with a simple mix. In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mix gives the steak flavor.
Next, place the flank steak in the marinade. Make sure it is fully coated. Cover it and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to soak in well.
For the ideal flavor, you can add herbs like rosemary or thyme. These herbs enhance the taste without overpowering it.
Grilling the Corn
Prepare fresh corn by husking and cleaning the ears well. If using frozen corn, you can skip this step. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Brush the corn lightly with olive oil. This helps it not stick to the grill. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes. Turn it every few minutes. You want it to be charred and tender for the best taste.
If using frozen corn, heat a skillet with some olive oil. Sauté the corn on medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated and slightly caramelized.
Assembling the Salad
Start by preparing the salad base. In a large serving bowl, mix the greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and honey over the salad. Toss gently. You want all the ingredients coated evenly.
Now, it’s time to assemble the salad. On a serving plate, lay down a generous portion of the mixed greens. Next, arrange the sliced steak, grilled corn, sliced avocado, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese on top.
For a final touch, drizzle any leftover dressing over the salad. If you wish, sprinkle with a bit more salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds extra flavor to your dish.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Doneness for Steak
To cook steak just right, use a meat thermometer. Here are some key temperatures:
– Rare: 125°F
– Medium Rare: 135°F
– Medium: 145°F
– Medium Well: 150°F
– Well Done: 160°F
After cooking, let the steak rest for five minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. When you cut into the steak, it will be juicy and tender.
Salad Presentation Ideas
Make your salad look great! Here are some fun ideas:
– Use a large wooden board for a rustic touch.
– Serve individual plates for a fancy look.
– Layer the ingredients for depth and color.
Add colorful items like cherry tomatoes and avocado to make it pop. A mix of textures also adds interest.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
You can boost flavor with simple extras. Try these ideas:
– Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika for kick.
– Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add brightness.
– Pair with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a nice touch.
These little changes can take your salad from good to great! For the full recipe, check out Balsamic Bliss: Steak & Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn.