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Grilled steak and fresh strawberry spinach salad with balsamic dressing

Steak & Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This Steak & Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful combination of tender sirloin, fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 sirloin steak, flank steak, or your favorite cut about 1-inch thick
  • 5-6 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado diced or sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • cast-iron skillet
  • cutting board
  • small bowl
  • large bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Pat the steak dry, then season generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Sear the steak in the hot skillet for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for desired doneness; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  3. Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  4. While the steak rests, whisk together balsamic vinegar, the remaining olive oil, Dijon mustard, and optional honey or maple syrup in a small bowl, then season with salt and pepper.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, avocado, and red onion (if using).
  6. Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain.
  7. Divide the spinach mixture among plates, top with sliced steak and feta cheese (if using), then drizzle generously with the balsamic vinaigrette and serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra touch of sweetness, consider grilling the strawberries lightly before adding them to the salad. Adjust balsamic vinaigrette sweetness to your preference. If you don't have a cast iron skillet, any heavy bottomed pan will work well for searing the steak.