Welcome to a delicious adventure with our BBQ Steak Salad, where bold BBQ flavors meet the zesty kick of jalapeño lime dressing, perfect for any outdoor gathering or a flavorful family dinner.
Recipe – BBQ Steak Salad with Spicy Jalapeño Lime Dressing
Description
This BBQ steak salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled steak with the zesty kick of jalapeño lime dressing, offering a refreshing and hearty meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to a high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preference. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly.
- While the steak rests, prepare the dressing by whisking together lime juice, minced jalapeños, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss again to combine.
- Arrange the salad on plates, top with sliced steak, and drizzle the remaining dressing over the top.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the dressing to suit your spice preference.
- The salad can be customized with additional vegetables or toppings like crumbled cheese or nuts.
Nutrition
Calories: 560 kcal | Protein: 38 g | Fat: 40 g | Saturated Fat: 9 g | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Fiber: 5 g | Sugar: 10 g
The Science Behind The Method
Grilling the Steak: Grilling over high heat allows the Maillard reaction to take place, creating a rich, caramelized crust that’s packed with flavor. The high heat also helps in retaining the steak’s natural juices, ensuring that each slice is succulent and tender.
Resting the Meat: Allowing the steak to rest after grilling is crucial. This pause lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is equally juicy. Cutting the steak too soon would cause these flavorful juices to run out, leaving the meat dryer and less flavorful.
Emulsifying the Dressing: The dressing combines oil and citrus juice, ingredients that typically don’t mix well. Vigorous whisking helps in creating an emulsion, where the oil is finely dispersed in the lime juice, resulting in a dressing that is cohesive and evenly flavors the salad.
Tips For Success
- Choose the Right Cut: For grilling, choose cuts like ribeye or sirloin for their perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is sufficiently heated before you start. A hot grill sears the meat on contact, keeping it moist inside.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Salt and pepper not only enhance flavor but also help form the delicious crust on the steak.
- Check the Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. Remember, the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly during resting.
Variations You Can Try
- Cheese Additions: Crumble blue cheese or feta over the salad for a creamy texture and tangy taste.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or sliced almonds for an extra layer of crunch and nuttiness.
- Fruit Twists: Include slices of fresh pear or apple for a sweet contrast to the savory elements of the salad.
- Herb Infusions: Experiment with different herbs in the dressing. Cilantro or basil can offer a fresh, aromatic lift.
This BBQ Steak Salad with Spicy Jalapeño Lime Dressing is not just a meal but an experience. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the satisfaction of a well-prepared dish that’s sure to impress at any table.
