There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that balances rich flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Picture this: a sun-drenched afternoon, your grill just fired up, and the tantalizing scent of marinated flank steak filling the air. This BLT Caesar Salad with Steak is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer on a plate—a visual feast that bursts with textures and tastes.
As I tossed together organic spring mix, ripe grape tomatoes, and those irresistible crunchy bacon bits, I couldn’t help but smile at how effortlessly delicious this combination came together. It’s impressive enough for dinner guests yet quick and simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. And who could resist that creamy Caesar dressing drizzled over perfectly sliced steak?
Join me in exploring this delightful recipe, where classic flavors meet quick preparations, turning ordinary salad into an extraordinary meal!
Why is BLT Caesar Salad with Steak so delightful?
Satisfying Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory steak, crispy bacon, and creamy Caesar dressing creates a mouthwatering experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Vibrant Textures: Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the fresh organic spring mix and croutons, perfectly contrasting the juicy steak.
Quick and Simple: With minimal grilling time, you can whip up this gourmet salad in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite greens or toppings like avocado for added creaminess.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s impressive enough to serve at gatherings, yet easy for everyday dining, ensuring everyone will love it!
BLT Caesar Salad with Steak Ingredients
For the Steak
• Marinated Flank Steak – Provides a tender and flavorful base for the salad; can be swapped for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
For the Salad Base
• Organic Spring Mix – Adds freshness and color to the dish; feel free to replace with any mixed greens you have on hand.
• Grape Tomatoes – Bring sweet juiciness to the mix; cherry tomatoes can be a lovely alternative if you prefer.
• Croutons – Offer delightful crunch and texture; look for gluten-free croutons if you’re catering to dietary needs.
• Crispy Bacon – Contributes a savory, crunchy element to the salad; replace with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
For the Dressing
• Caesar Dressing – Provides creaminess and flavor contrast; consider Greek yogurt as a lighter option if desired.
• Shaved Parmesan Cheese – Enhances the salad with a nutty flavor; nutritional yeast makes a great dairy-free substitute.
Feel free to savor the essence of a BLT Caesar Salad with Steak by customizing it to your taste preferences!
How to Make BLT Caesar Salad with Steak
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Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, oregano, light brown sugar, onion powder, Dijon mustard, rosemary, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and coriander powder. Whisk until well blended.
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Marinate the Steak: Place your flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure it’s fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes—up to overnight for an explosion of flavor!
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Grill or Sear the Steak: Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. Cook the steak for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, aiming for medium-rare (135°F). Let the enticing aromas guide you!
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Rest the Steak: Once done, transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy slices, so hold tight a little longer!
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Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the organic spring mix, grape tomatoes, croutons, and crispy bacon bits. Mix gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
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Add the Sliced Steak: Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. Gently add it to the salad bowl along with a generous drizzle of Caesar dressing. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
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Serve and Enjoy: Portion the salad onto plates and top with shaved Parmesan cheese. Dive in immediately for the freshest and most delightful experience!
Optional: For an extra touch, add avocado slices for creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This BLT Caesar Salad with Steak is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the bold flavors to penetrate deeply. While the steak is marinating, prep the salad ingredients by washing and storing the organic spring mix and grape tomatoes in the refrigerator. To keep everything fresh, store the Caesar dressing separately until you’re ready to serve, which prevents sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply grill the steak, slice it against the grain, and toss it together with the prepped ingredients for a tantalizing, restaurant-quality meal that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
BLT Caesar Salad with Steak Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore exciting twists and swaps to make this salad your own!
- Dairy-Free: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a nutty, dairy-free flavor boost.
- Vegetarian: Replace marinated flank steak with grilled tofu or tempeh for a satisfying plant-based protein.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free croutons, or create your own using gluten-free bread for that lovely crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the salad for a zesty heat!
- Nutty Boost: Toss in walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that compliments the other ingredients.
- Creamier Dressing: Swap the Caesar dressing with a creamy avocado dressing for a fresher take on flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Enhance the freshness by adding cucumbers or bell peppers, providing a refreshing crunch to each bite.
- Sweet Contrast: Add sliced strawberries or apples for a sweet contrast against the savory elements of the salad, making every mouthful an adventure!
What to Serve with BLT Caesar Salad with Steak?
A delightful meal isn’t complete without thoughtful pairings that enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.
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Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty side pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing, providing a delightful contrast with the salad’s freshness.
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Grilled Veggies: Consider seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Their smoky flavors perfectly complement the savory steak.
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Red Wine: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon elevates the meal, enhancing the rich flavors of the marinated flank steak.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and a burst of color to each bite, balancing out the rich and savory elements.
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Coleslaw: A tangy slaw with a crunchy texture brings brightness to the meal; it serves as a light, crunchy counterpart to the hearty salad.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy and seasoned, these satisfyingly hearty bites work beautifully alongside the robust flavors of the salad.
With these thoughtful pairings, your BLT Caesar Salad with Steak is set to become a star of any meal!
How to Store and Freeze BLT Caesar Salad with Steak
Fridge: Keep the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid mixing the dressing until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad after assembly; however, you can freeze marinated flank steak for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: If you have leftover cooked steak, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking, perfect for incorporating into another meal or a fresh salad.
Dressing Storage: Store leftover Caesar dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Use it to elevate other dishes while keeping your BLT Caesar Salad with Steak lean and fresh!
Expert Tips for BLT Caesar Salad with Steak
• Marinate Wisely: Allow the steak to marinate for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor enhancement, turning this salad into a standout dish.
• Slice with Care: Remember to cut the flank steak against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and easy to enjoy in your BLT Caesar Salad with Steak.
• Keep It Fresh: Combine salad ingredients just before serving to maintain crispness and avoid sogginess. Keeping dressing on the side until serving can help too.
• Watch the Heat: Don’t overcook the steak; a meat thermometer ensures precision—aim for 135°F for the perfect medium-rare.
• Customize to Taste: Feel free to substitute any ingredients as noted; this recipe shines with your favorite additions, making it perfect for any palate.
BLT Caesar Salad with Steak Recipe FAQs
How do I choose a ripe tomato?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly tender to the touch. A ripe grape or cherry tomato will have a rich color and a sweet aroma. Avoid any that have dark spots, as this could indicate overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess. When ready to enjoy, simply toss it together!
Can I freeze marinated flank steak?
Yes, you can! To freeze the marinated flank steak, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and seal it tightly, ensuring any air is pressed out. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before grilling.
What if my steak ends up tough?
If the steak is tough, it may be due to overcooking or improper slicing. Always slice flank steak against the grain — this cuts the muscle fibers and leads to more tender bites. If you overcooked it, try marinating it in a flavorful sauce or broth before reheating to help tenderize it.
Is this salad suitable for someone with a gluten allergy?
Very! You can make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free croutons and ensuring your Caesar dressing is also gluten-free. Many brands cater to gluten-free needs, making it easy to modify this delicious salad for dietary preferences!
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep all components of the salad except for the croutons and dressing ahead of time. Store the chopped salad mix and cooked, sliced steak separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve, adding croutons and dressing at the last moment to keep it fresh and crisp.
Savory BLT Caesar Salad with Steak for Epic Flavor Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, oregano, light brown sugar, onion powder, Dijon mustard, rosemary, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and coriander powder. Whisk until well blended.
- Place your flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure it's fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes—up to overnight.
- Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. Cook the steak for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, aiming for medium-rare (135°F).
- Once done, transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss together the organic spring mix, grape tomatoes, croutons, and crispy bacon bits.
- Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. Gently add it to the salad bowl along with a generous drizzle of Caesar dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Portion the salad onto plates and top with shaved Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.