This blackened steak salad takes your normal salad to the next level. It is loaded with steak, mixed greens, goat cheese, pears, clementines, and pecans!
Blackened Steak Salad
Ever have those days where you a craving a delicious, crisp, and wholesome salad? (Honestly, who wants a salad with just lettuce? Boringgggg).
Loaded salads are a must and this steak salad will become your new favorite recipe.
This recipe came about when my mom told me about a steak salad she had at a local restaurant. It had delicious blackened steak on top of crispy mixed greens. But, she wished it had a crunchiness factor and additional toppings rather than just the steak and lettuce. We definitely need more from a salad than just steak and lettuce – you feel me?
So, I knew I had to recreate this salad but it make it 10x times better! And this steak salad recipe is just that.
Why you’ll love this steak salad
- It is refreshing and wholesome!
- Oranges add a delicious citrus zing.
- This salad has the perfect amount of crunch and crisp in every bite.
- Also, it has creamy goat cheese!
- Blackened flank steak adds protein.
- Additionally, try this lemon kale caesar salad for some more salad inspiration.
Ingredients in blackened steak salad
Here are the ingredients we are working with:
- Arugula and spinach make the base of this salad.
- Blackened flank steak is the protein source!
- Butter adds flavor and helps season the steak.
- The blackened seasonings we will be using are: Paprika, Cayenne pepper, Onion powder, Garlic powder, Salt, Pepper, Basil, Oregano
- Last but certainly not least, the topping! Pear, goat cheese, pecans and mandarin oranges are the toppings that will accompany the salad.
How to prepare the meat
Making blackened flank steak is pretty simple if you ask me. Here are a few tips:
- Firstly, let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Secondly, using a sharp knife, cut small slivers into the meat. Cut in the direction of the grain of the meat.
- Thirdly, dip the flank steak in the melted butter.
- Next, add the seasoning mix onto the steak.
- Lastly, cook in a skillet or large pan. Cook about 4-5 minutes a side. Cook to 130 degrees if you like medium rare. Be careful to not over cook as flank steak can become pretty tough.
How to make the blackened seasoning
Blackened seasoning is a combination of seasonings you probably already have on hand. Also, this recipe makes a large amount so you will likely have some left over.
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Basil
- Oregano
How to make homemade balsamic vinaigrette
Homemade dressing is super easy. I don’t think people realize how easy it really is! We are going to whip up this dressing in under 3 minutes.
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Apple cider vinegar
- Honey
- Dijion mustard
- Salt
- Pepper
- Dried thyme
- Garlic clove
Simply whisk all the dressing ingredients in a small container. Set aside until ready to use!
Frequently asked questions
What type of lettuce can I use?
Feel free to use any lettuce or mixed greens that you like. I like using a combination of spinach and arugula.
Can I use different cheese?
Definitely! Try substituting in feta cheese instead of the goat cheese. However, please note that this will change the flavor profile of this salad.
What type of dressing can I use?
If you don’t feel like whipping up this homemade dressing, use a store bought vinaigrette! Any balsamic, citrus, or fruit vinaigrette will work.
Can I use another try of steak?
Yes! Feel free to use any cut of steak you prefer. Just note that the cooking times and cooking methods can change depending on the cut of meat.
Other salad recipes you’ll love
If you’re a salad love, certainly give these other salad recipes a try.
Did you make this recipe?
I hope you make this recipe. It seriously makes the best lunch or dinner!
If you do give this recipe a try, please let me know! Please leave a comment with a star rating below. Your reviews and comments help support Brae’s Bites and allows me to continue to make delicious recipes!
Also for some more recipe inspiration, you can also find and follow me on Instagram and Pinterest!
Blackened Steak Salad (Pear, Arugula, Goat Cheese)
Ingredients
Blackened Steak
- 1 lb flank steak
- 4 tbsp butter or ghee melted
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tsp cayenne pepper, garlic powder and onion powder
- ½ tsp salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano
Candied Pecans
- 1 cup pecans
Balsamic Dressing
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ¼ tsp salt, pepper and dried thyme
Salad
- 8-10 cups arugula or spinach or combination of both
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 1 cup pecans
- 3 chopped pears
- 5 mandarin oranges or clementines
Instructions
Homemade Balsamic Dressing
- Simply whisk all the dressing ingredients in a small container. Set aside until ready to use!
Blackened Steak
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Using a sharp knife, cut small slivers into the meat. Cut in the direction of the grain of the meat.
- Now dip the flank steak in the melted butter. Add the seasoning mix on both sides. (This seasoning makes a good amount so you will likely have some left over.
- Preheat a large skillet or pan. Cook the steak about 4-5 minutes a side. Cook to 130 degrees if you like medium rare or cook to your liking (if you over cook the flank steak it can become pretty tough).
Salad Assembly
- Grab 5 large plates or 5 large bowls. Distribute the mixed greens, steak, goat cheese, pecans, pears and oranges evenly.
- Top each salad with dressing and enjoy!
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