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Grilled steak and fresh strawberry spinach salad with balsamic dressing

Summer Steak & Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze

This refreshing salad combines juicy seared steak with fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and an optional tangy balsamic dressing, perfect for a light summer meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron)
  • Cutting board
  • Foil
  • Large salad bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb sirloin steak, flank steak, or your preferred cut about 1-inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for steak
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 5 oz fresh spinach about 5-6 cups loosely packed
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts toasted (optional)

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin preferred, for dressing
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 clove garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (for dressing)

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Pat the steak dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for desired doneness.
  • Remove the steak to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes for juicier results.
  • While the steak rests, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, and any optional red onion, cheese, or nuts in a large salad bowl.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Once rested, thinly slice the steak against the grain.
  • Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.
  • Divide the dressed salad among serving plates and top each with slices of cooked steak. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

For best results, allow the steak to rest fully to ensure maximum juiciness. Adjust cooking times for steak to your preferred doneness.