Grilled Steak Salad* Recipe

Bring steak to room temperature

Remove the steak from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking and pat dry with paper towels.

Season

Brush the steak lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season both sides evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

Preheat grill or pan

Preheat an outdoor grill to high (about 450–500°F / 230–260°C) or heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot (a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate).

Grill or sear

Place the steak on the hot grill or pan. For medium-rare (recommended), cook about 3–4 minutes per side for a 1-inch steak, turning once. Adjust time for thickness and desired doneness: rare 2–3 min/side, medium 4–5 min/side, well-done longer. Use an instant-read thermometer: 125–130°F for rare, 130–135°F for medium-rare, 140–145°F for medium.

Rest and slice

Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest 7–10 minutes to redistribute juices. Slice thinly across the grain into 1/4-inch slices and set aside, keeping warm.

Whisk 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon honey, and 1 minced garlic clove in a small bowl until emulsified. Season to taste with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.

In a large bowl, combine 6 cups mixed salad greens, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber, and 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion.

Add sliced avocado and toss gently with about half of the dressing to coat the greens lightly (reserve remaining dressing to drizzle over sliced steak).

Arrange dressed salad on serving plates or a large platter. Fan the sliced steak over the top of the salad.

Drizzle remaining dressing over the steak and salad. Sprinkle optional 1/4 cup crumbled cheese and 1/4 cup toasted nuts if using. Finish with an extra grind of black pepper and a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.

Serve immediately while the steak is still slightly warm. Provide extra dressing on the side if desired.