Steak Fries Salad
There’s something utterly nostalgic about the sizzling sound of a steak hitting a hot skillet and the wafting aroma of French fries fresh from the oven. The Steak Fries Salad is an innovative twist on traditional favorites, combining the hearty satisfaction of crispy fries with the refreshing zest of a vibrant salad. This dish promises to envelop you in a medley of flavors: savory, tangy, and delightfully crunchy. Picture perfectly seasoned steak, golden fries, and creamy blue cheese nestled atop a bed of peppery arugula and fresh cucumbers, drizzled with a silky balsamic vinaigrette that ties everything together. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience worth sharing with loved ones, making it a quick go-to for busy weeknights and a fantastic crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Featuring the primary keyword, this Steak Fries Salad is about to become your new culinary obsession!
A Crave-Worthy Question
Have you ever taken a bite of something so delicious that it transports you back to simpler times, perhaps as a kid chomping down on fries after a long day at play? What if you could blend those delightful memories with a sophisticated twist that still brings the whole family together at the dinner table?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Steak Fries Salad is not just another ordinary meal; it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that brings joy to your taste buds. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making this dish:
- Easy Prep: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up this delicious meal in under an hour.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique combination of steak, fries, and fresh veggies is bound to impress guests at any gathering.
- Minimal Ingredients: You can delve into this dish with the basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, allowing you to maintain spontaneity in your cooking.
- Health Benefits: The fresh vegetables and lean protein contribute to a balanced meal, marrying indulgence with health-conscious choices seamlessly.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Steak Fries Salad, gather the following:
- 1 (15-oz.) bag frozen French fries (about 4 c.)
- 1/2 tsp. sweet paprika
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 1 (1 1/2-lb.) flank steak, cut into 2 pieces against the grain
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 6 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 8 oz. English cucumber, halved and thinly sliced
- 6 oz. baby arugula (about 8 packed c.)
- 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 oz. crumbled blue cheese (about 1/2 c.)
These vibrant ingredients promise a feast for the senses, with every component singing its own tune while harmonizing alongside the others.
Timing
If you’re short on time and need an indulgent meal, the Steak Fries Salad can be a quick fix, allowing you to experience flavors that feel luxurious without the fuss. You can have it hot from the kitchen in about 30-40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner. But if you want to luxuriate in the preparation process, take your time soaking up the delightful scents of sautéing shallots and searing steaks as you create a flavorful dressing. Either way, this dish fits the bill!
Step-by-Step
Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
On a baking sheet, arrange frozen fries in a single layer. Bake fries until golden and crisp, which usually takes about 25 minutes.
Sprinkle the fries with sweet paprika; season with salt and carefully toss to combine.
While the fries are baking, season the flank steak with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
In a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Cook the steak, flipping halfway through until browned on both sides and medium-rare (usually 5 to 7 minutes per side).
Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Wipe excess oil from the skillet, leaving the browned bits.
Add the chopped shallot and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and cook until the shallot softens and is translucent—this should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the balsamic vinegar to the skillet and cook while scraping the browned bits from the pan until the mixture reduces by half, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and pour the vinegar mixture into a medium heatproof bowl.
Whisk in the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and additional 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Slowly pour in the remaining 4 tablespoons of oil while whisking. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Thinly slice the steak against the grain.
On plates, divide the cucumber, arugula, grape tomatoes, slices of steak, and your crispy fries.
Sprinkle blue cheese over each serving and drizzle the prepared dressing on top.
This final presentation is not just a meal; it’s a work of art that invites you to dive into an explosion of flavors.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Steak Fries Salad contains approximately 650 calories. This dish beautifully balances heartiness and indulgence, making it perfect for an occasional treat yet fulfilling enough to serve as a satisfying main course. Remember, it’s entirely okay to indulge every once in a while!
Healthier Alternatives
While this dish deliciously leans towards indulgence, you can opt for healthier swaps without compromising flavor:
- Use sweet potato fries instead of traditional French fries for a nutrient boost.
- Substitute the flank steak with grilled chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use low-fat blue cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter salad.
- Replace the balsamic vinaigrette with a yogurt-based dressing for a creamier, lower-calorie option.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine serving this Steak Fries Salad at a casual dinner party or during game day. To take it further, pair it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for dessert, making the festive feel last all day long! Great for holidays, this salad can accompany grilled meats or be presented as a stand-alone entree.
Common Mistakes
To ensure your Steak Fries Salad turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overbaking the fries can lead to a rock-hard texture instead of crispiness. Keep an eye on them!
- Ensure the steak is not overcooked; follow a meat thermometer if needed. Aim for perfect medium-rare with internal temperatures around 135°F.
- Don’t skip letting the steak rest; it helps retain juices. Slicing too soon can lead to dryness.
- For a red, vibrant finish, add tomatoes just before serving for freshness and color.
Storing Tips
If you end up with leftovers (a rare occurrence, but it can happen), here’s how to preserve them:
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- You can freeze portions of steak for later use, but be cautious as fries may lose their texture.
- To reheat, bake fries in the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F to regain their crispiness while gently warming the steak in the microwave or on the skillet.
Conclusion
Now that the enticing details of this Steak Fries Salad have been laid out, what are you waiting for? Dive into the flavors, textures, and nostalgia that this dish brings, and make it a star of your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. You’ll revel in every bite and create lasting memories with loved ones, so get baking and treat yourself today!
FAQs
Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes! Freshly cut fries will add an extra layer of flavor.Is there a substitute for flank steak?
Absolutely! Skirt steak or sirloin can also work beautifully.What other toppings can I add?
You can include avocado, fresh herbs, or various nuts for extra crunch.Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes! Swap steak with grilled tofu or tempeh. The fries can either be left as they are or served with roasted veggies.How long does the salad last in the fridge?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, in the fridge, it can last for 1-2 days. Just keep dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!
Now grab your ingredients, turn on the oven, and let these flavors come alive in your kitchen!
Print
Steak Fries Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Meat
Description
A delightful twist on traditional favorites, combining crispy fries and savory steak with vibrant salad greens, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 1 (15-oz.) bag frozen French fries (about 4 c.)
- 1/2 tsp. sweet paprika
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 1 (1 1/2-lb.) flank steak, cut into 2 pieces against the grain
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 6 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 8 oz. English cucumber, halved and thinly sliced
- 6 oz. baby arugula (about 8 packed c.)
- 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 oz. crumbled blue cheese (about 1/2 c.)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- On a baking sheet, arrange frozen fries in a single layer. Bake fries until golden and crisp, about 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle the fries with sweet paprika; season with salt and toss to combine.
- While the fries are baking, season the flank steak with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the steak, flipping halfway through, until browned on both sides and medium-rare (about 5 to 7 minutes per side).
- Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for about 10 minutes.
- Wipe excess oil from the skillet, add the chopped shallot and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and cook until softened, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the balsamic vinegar and reduce by half, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, remaining salt, and the remaining olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Thinly slice the steak against the grain.
- On plates, divide cucumber, arugula, grape tomatoes, steak slices, and crispy fries.
- Sprinkle blue cheese over each serving and drizzle with the dressing.
Notes
For healthier alternatives, use sweet potato fries, substitute steak with grilled chicken, or use a yogurt-based dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
