Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn

Introduction to Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, balancing family, work, and the never-ending to-do list can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m excited to share this Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn. It’s a refreshing, tasty dish that’s perfect for those busy nights when you still want something special on the table. Trust me, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a casual get-together, this salad will impress. It’s healthy, fulfilling, and oh-so-delicious—a delightful treat that makes you feel good inside and out!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn

First off, this salad is a breeze to whip up! With just 40 minutes of prep and cook time, you can have an impressive meal on the table quickly. The combination of marinated steak, creamy Gorgonzola, and sweet corn creates a flavor explosion that’ll leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends without breaking a sweat!

Ingredients for Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn

Gathering fresh ingredients is part of the joy of cooking, and this Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn is no exception! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry, I’ll detail some tips along the way.

Sirloin steak: A tender cut perfect for grilling, with a rich flavor that shines through the marinade.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a sweet and tangy depth to the salad, enhancing the steak’s flavor.
Worcestershire sauce: Just a dash brings in umami notes, balancing the sweetness of the balsamic.
Extra virgin olive oil: A must for marinating the steak and later for the vinaigrette, providing healthy fats and a lovely flavor.
Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle kick in the marinade and vinaigrette, bringing all the flavors together.
Garlic powder: A pantry staple that adds a warm depth, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Coarse salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the steak and veggies.
Cherry tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness, they add a pop of color and freshness to the salad.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a mild crunch, it adds an aromatic element to the mix.
Gorgonzola cheese: Creamy, tangy, and incredibly flavorful; this cheese is a perfect complement to the steak.
Endive lettuce: Offers a delightful crunch and slightly bitter taste, adding another layer of texture.
Mixed spring greens: These tender greens bring freshness, making the salad feel light and vibrant.
Corn on the cob: Sweet and smoky when grilled, it adds a seasonal element that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Basil and parsley: Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s flavor and aroma—don’t skip these!
Garlic: Freshly minced, it brings a robust flavor to the gremolata.
Lemon zest: A little zest brightens everything up, adding a fresh, citrusy note to the vinaigrette.

Now, for those precise measurements, don’t fret! You’ll find them listed at the bottom of the article for easy reference and printing.

How to Make Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn

Now that you’re prepped with the ingredients, let’s dive into making this stunning dish! Follow these simple steps and watch how everything comes together for a tantalizing experience. I promise it’s easier than it looks, and your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Grab a medium-sized bowl and combine the balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Place your glorious sirloin steaks into a large ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over them, seal the bag, and give it a gentle shake to coat every inch of the meat.

Now, let those steaks chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will infuse them with all the delicious flavors while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Make the Gremolata

While the steak is soaking up that goodness, let’s whip up a fresh gremolata. In a small bowl, mix together the minced basil, parsley, lemon zest, and minced garlic.

This mixture will add a vibrant kick to your salad, tantalizingly brightening each bite. Set it aside and let those flavors meld!

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Preheat your grill or cast iron grill pan to medium-high heat. Meanwhile, prep your corn by drizzling it with a tablespoon of olive oil.

Generously sprinkle salt and pepper for flavor. Using tongs, place the corn on the grill, cooking each side until you have gorgeous grill marks, about 10 minutes total.

When done, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Once cooled, slice those golden kernels off the cob. Trust me, this step adds a lovely sweetness to your salad!

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Now for the star of the show—our marinated steak! Remove it from the fridge and place it on the grill or grill pan.

Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes for a perfectly rare to medium-rare finish. Everyone loves those grill marks! Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and allow it to rest for five minutes. Slicing it while it’s resting will help retain all those juicy flavors!

Step 5: Prepare the Vinaigrette

No salad is complete without a stellar dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, dijon mustard, and a dash of salt and pepper.

This vinaigrette is tangy and delicious—a perfect match for all the colorful components of this salad.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss together half of the vinaigrette, half of the gremolata, mixed greens, endive, cherry tomatoes, Gorgonzola, red onion, and the sliced corn kernels.

Now, lay your beautifully sliced steak on top of this vibrant medley. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and gremolata. Sit back and admire your work—it’s time to feast!

Tips for Success

Always let the steak rest after grilling. This helps keep the juices locked in.
Want more flavor? Marinate the steak longer—up to 24 hours for a deeper taste.
Use fresh herbs for the gremolata; it really makes a difference!
If you’re short on time, use a pre-made vinaigrette.
Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have—be creative!

Equipment Needed

Grill or cast iron grill pan: Both work wonders for achieving those perfect grill marks.
Large ziplock bag: Ideal for marinating your steak and easy cleanup!
Medium and small bowls: For mixing marinades and the gremolata.
Tongs: Essential for handling hot corn and steak safely.
Whisk: Perfect for emulsifying your vinaigrette.

Variations

Vegetarian option: Swap the sirloin steak for grilled portobello mushrooms. They add a hearty texture and absorb flavors wonderfully!
Add more veggies: Toss in avocado slices, bell peppers, or radishes to enhance the color and crunch of your salad.
Cheese alternatives: If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, feta or goat cheese can also provide a tangy kick.
Grain addition: For a more filling dish, consider adding cooked quinoa or farro for added fiber and nutrition.
Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in your vinaigrette for those who love some heat!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your salad with crusty garlic bread for a delightful crunch that complements the meal.
A chilled glass of white wine or a light, fruity rosé enhances the flavors beautifully.
For a pop of color, serve on a large, colorful platter or individual bowls.
Add a sprinkle of extra herbs on top for a fresh touch!

FAQs about Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the steak a day in advance and assemble most of the salad beforehand. Just add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What if I don’t have Gorgonzola cheese?
No problem! You can substitute it with feta or goat cheese. Both alternatives will add a creamy texture and delicious flavor to the salad.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Simply omit the Gorgonzola cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The salad will still be packed with flavor without losing its uniqueness!

Is it possible to grill the steak in the oven?
Definitely! If the weather isn’t cooperating, you can use a broiler to get that delicious char. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn adds a sweet, grilled flavor, you can use frozen corn. Just sauté it in a pan until warmed through for a quick substitute.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad with Gorgonzola & Corn truly brings joy to my kitchen. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients create an inviting atmosphere, making it a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s a chance to gather around the table with loved ones, share stories, and enjoy a moment of connection. Plus, knowing I can whip up something so delicious and nutritious in just about an hour makes me feel like a culinary superhero! Give this salad a try, and let the good times roll!

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