Grilled Wedge Steak Salad

This Grilled Wedge Steak Salad Is My Go-To Summer Dinner, and I can’t wait to share the details with you! When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a fresh, vibrant salad filled with delicious, grilled flavors. This dish is perfect for those sultry summer evenings when you want something hearty yet refreshing. The combination of juicy flank steak, smoky grilled romaine, and creamy blue cheese dressing is nothing short of heavenly. Plus, it’s an easy meal to whip up for your family or friends during a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home.

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What I love about this grilled wedge steak salad is that it perfectly captures the essence of summer. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that are at their peak. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors: there’s the satisfying crunch of bacon, the tangy brightness from pickled shallots, and the rich creaminess of the dressing. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let’s make this delightful salad your go-to dish for this summer!

Why This Recipe Works

This grilled wedge steak salad marries the smoky depth of charred romaine with the succulence of perfectly grilled flank steak, complemented by the crunch of bacon and the zing of pickled shallots. The creamy blue cheese dressing ties it all together. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that epitomizes summer dining.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Wedge Steak Salad Is My Go-To Summer Dinner

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty. Quick to prepare yet luxurious and satisfying, it’s perfect for casual gatherings or intimate dinners alike. The freshness of the grilled ingredients combined with the rich dressing makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Every time I prepare it, I get compliments!

Ingredients

• 1 medium shallot, peeled and very thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¾ cup (3 ounces) crumbled blue cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives (or chopped scallions)
• 1-2 tablespoons water or milk (or more as needed)
• 1 – 1 ¼ pounds flank steak
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
• 4-6 strips meaty bacon
• Neutral vegetable oil for grilling
• 2 romaine hearts, halved lengthwise
• 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (or quartered if large)

Making the Pickled Shallots

Start by draining the shallot slices and seasoning them with salt. Stir in sherry vinegar and let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step infuses the shallots with tangy flavor, making them a fantastic addition to your salad.

Preparing the Blue Cheese Dressing

In a bowl, mix the lemon juice and grated garlic; letting it sit for about five minutes enhances the garlic flavor. Then, combine this mixture with sour cream, mayonnaise, blue cheese, chives, and one tablespoon of water or milk. You can adjust the thickness by adding more liquid if needed and be sure to season it to taste.

Grilling the Steak and Assembling the Salad

First, preheat your grill to medium-high. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and granulated garlic, then let it rest for 15 minutes. In the meantime, cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp—this usually takes about ten minutes. Ensure you clean and oil the grill grates well.

Next, grill the steak for about 3-5 minutes on each side, aiming for an internal temperature of 125-130°F for medium-rare. During the last moments, grill the halved romaine, cut sides down, until nice grill marks form, which should take about a minute.

Now, you can plate your creation! Start with the grilled romaine as the base, then top it with half tomatoes and sliced steak. Drizzle the blue cheese dressing generously, scatter the pickled shallots, crumble the bacon over the top, and sprinkle with additional blue cheese.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly delightful meal, serve this wedge steak salad alongside grilled corn on the cob or a light summer fruit salad. It adds a perfect balance to the rich flavors of the salad.

Tips for Success

• Let the steak rest after grilling to ensure maximum juiciness. This step can make a big difference!
• If you’re up for it, make the blue cheese dressing a day ahead to deepen its flavors. The extra time allows the ingredients to come together beautifully.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! Use grilled chicken instead of flank steak or toss in seasonal veggies like bell peppers for an added crunch. You can adapt this dish to fit your tastes.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store salad components separately in airtight containers. The blue cheese dressing and pickled shallots can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. This makes it easy to enjoy a delicious lunchtime salad!

Pairing Ideas

Consider pairing this flavorful salad with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light lager. These options will enhance your summer dining experience and provide a refreshing burst of flavor with each sip.

FAQs

What type of steak is best for this recipe?
Flank steak is ideal for its flavor and tenderness when grilled quickly. You won’t be disappointed!

Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, components like the dressing and pickled shallots can be prepared a few days ahead, making your life easier.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Omit the steak and bacon, replacing them with grilled vegetables or legumes like chickpeas to keep it filling.

What can I substitute for blue cheese?
Feta cheese or goat cheese work well as alternatives if you’re not a fan of blue cheese.

Can I grill the romaine ahead of time?
Grilling romaine just before serving ensures it maintains its crispness and freshness. It’s worth the wait!

This grilled wedge steak salad encapsulates the essence of summer dining. It blends fresh ingredients with enticing flavors, creating a delightful meal you’ll want to share. Enjoy this recipe as a simple yet elegant go-to dinner option that brings joy to your mealtime rituals. Each bite will remind you of the warmth and vibrancy of summer, making it a dish worth savoring and sharing.

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