Ready to tantalize your taste buds? This Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is a game-changer. Bursting with savory steak, rich cheese, and sweet grilled corn, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. I’ll guide you through each step, from marinating the steak to making a zesty dressing. Let’s transform your dinner routine into a delightful culinary experience that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad
For this flavorful salad, you need:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 ears of fresh corn, husked
– 6 cups mixed greens (like arugula, spinach, and romaine)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
The flank steak brings a rich taste. Balsamic vinegar adds a sweet tang while the olive oil adds smoothness. Fresh corn gives a nice crunch, and mixed greens make it light and vibrant. Cherry tomatoes offer juicy bursts of flavor.
Additional Components
To elevate the salad, gather these ingredients:
– ½ cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Gorgonzola cheese adds creaminess. Walnuts bring a nutty crunch, and avocado makes it rich. Honey and Dijon mustard together create a delightful dressing, while lemon juice adds brightness.
Recommended Seasoning
For the best flavor, use:
– Salt and black pepper to taste
These simple seasonings enhance all the salad’s ingredients. Salt brings out flavors, while pepper adds a bit of spice.Enjoy creating this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Steak
– Ingredients needed for marination:
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
To marinate the steak, mix the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Coat the flank steak well in this mixture. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This helps the meat absorb flavors and stay tender.
Prepare the Corn
– Best methods for grilling corn:
– Use a grill or grill pan at medium-high heat.
Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes. Turn the corn every few minutes until it gets charred and tender. After grilling, let it cool for a bit. Cut the kernels off the cob and set them aside.
Cooking the Steak
– Ideal grill temperatures:
– Preheat your grill to high heat.
Grill the steak for about 5-6 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish. Adjust the time if you want it more well done. After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes. This makes it juicy and easier to slice thinly against the grain.
Assemble the Salad
– Step-by-step assembly order:
– In a large bowl, start with mixed greens.
– Add the grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese, and walnuts.
Gently mix the ingredients together. This ensures an even distribution of flavors in every bite.
Make the Dressing
– Ingredients for dressing preparation:
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Pinch of salt and pepper
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well mixed.
Serve the Salad
– Plating suggestions for presentation:
– Use large bowls or individual plates.
Top the salad with sliced steak and avocado. You can also sprinkle some extra Gorgonzola on top for added flavor. This makes the dish look and taste amazing.Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Steak
How to slice steak for tender texture
To get tender slices, always cut against the grain. The grain runs in lines along the meat. If you slice with the grain, the meat will be tough. For flank steak, aim for thin slices, about half an inch thick. This way, each bite will be soft and full of flavor.
Recommended doneness levels for steak
For this salad, I recommend cooking the steak to medium-rare. This gives you a juicy and tasty piece of meat. Medium-rare means an internal temperature of 130-135°F. If you prefer it medium, aim for 140-145°F. Use a meat thermometer for the best results.
Enhancing Flavor
Additions for extra flavor
To make your salad pop, try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They add a bright taste that lifts the dish. You can also sprinkle some fresh cracked pepper on top before serving. This adds a nice kick.
Balancing flavors in the dressing
Balance is key in your dressing. The honey gives sweetness, while the Dijon mustard adds a tangy bite. Make sure to taste as you mix. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more lemon juice. This will help brighten the flavor.
Grilling Techniques
Using a grill pan vs. outdoor grilling
You can use either a grill pan or an outdoor grill. A grill pan gives nice marks and can be used indoors. Just make sure it’s hot before adding the steak and corn. For outdoor grilling, preheat your grill well. This keeps the meat juicy and helps veggies char nicely.
Maintaining moisture in grilled vegetables
To keep grilled corn moist, soak it in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps it steam while it cooks. For other veggies, brush them with olive oil. This adds flavor and moisture while grilling. It helps prevent burning and keeps them tender.
