This Fall Harvest Steak Salad is a hearty mix of fresh greens, juicy steak, and colorful seasonal veggies. Topped with crunchy nuts and a tangy dressing, it’s a real treat for your taste buds!
I love how the steak adds a filling touch, making it perfect for dinner. Plus, who can resist that beautiful mix of fall colors on their plate? It’s like a tasty autumn masterpiece! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or sirloin steak works best for this salad. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try grilled chicken or even marinated tofu for a vegetarian version!
Mixed Greens: Use a variety of salad greens for different flavors and textures. Baby kale or romaine can substitute well if you can’t find a mix. Don’t hesitate to use any fresh greens you enjoy!
Butternut Squash: This adds a warm sweetness. If it’s not available, sweet potatoes or even roasted carrots are great alternatives that still provide that autumn vibe.
Cheese: Goat cheese adds a nice tang, but feta or blue cheese are also tasty options. If you prefer dairy-free, nut-based feta can work nicely!
Pomegranate Seeds: They add a lovely crunch and pop of color. Alternatively, you can use dried cranberries or blueberries if fresh ones are hard to find.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Steak?
Cooking steak to the right doneness can seem tricky, but with these simple steps, you can nail it!
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Season generously with salt and pepper just before cooking to maximize flavor.
- Use high heat in your grill or skillet, then reduce to medium for a more controlled cook. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- After cooking, always let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This step keeps the juices in, ensuring a more tender bite!
How Should I Prepare the Dressing for Balanced Flavor?
The dressing ties all the flavors together, so making it right is key. Here’s how to do it!
- Start with a base of apple cider vinegar and add sweetness with maple syrup or honey. Adjust the amount to your taste!
- Add Dijon mustard for a little kick; it also helps emulsify the oil.
- When adding olive oil, do it slowly while whisking. This helps create a creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. A good dressing should be balanced and enhance all the salad’s flavors!
Enjoy your delicious and colorful Fall Harvest Steak Salad that’s packed with flavor and perfect for cozy autumn dinners!
Fall Harvest Steak Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for steak)
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix)
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting squash)
- ½ cup pecans or candied pecans
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fall Harvest Steak Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking and roasting time. In total, plan for about 45 minutes. You’ll enjoy the wonderful aroma of roasted squash while creating a beautiful and tasty dish perfect for autumn gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Butternut Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the squash cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Once done, take it out and let it cool slightly.
2. Season the Steak:
While the squash is roasting, season your steak generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; this adds great flavor!
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for doneness. When finished, take the steak off the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup or honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. While whisking, slowly dribble in the olive oil until the dressing becomes creamy and well-combined.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the mixed greens evenly. Layer on the sliced apples, roasted butternut squash, pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and pomegranate seeds for a vibrant look.
6. Add the Steak:
Place the sliced steak in the center of the salad or arrange it on top for everyone to see!
7. Dress the Salad:
Right before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the entire salad. This will enhance all those wonderful flavors!
8. Serving Suggestions:
You can gently toss the salad if you’d like everything mixed together, or leave it arranged for a beautiful presentation. Either way, your Fall Harvest Steak Salad is ready to impress!
Enjoy this vibrant, hearty meal that celebrates the flavors of the season! 🍂🥗
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for This Salad?
Absolutely! While flank or sirloin steak are great options, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a richer flavor. For a lighter choice, grilled chicken or even marinated tofu can work well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent the salad from getting soggy, keep the dressing separate and add it just before eating.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk or shake before using, as it may separate while sitting.
What Variations Can I Try With This Salad?
Feel free to customize this salad! You can add roasted beets, swap the apple for pear, or include other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different texture. Get creative with seasonal ingredients!
