Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

The Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of marinated steak, creamy Gorgonzola, and fresh summer vegetables. Perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to special gatherings—this salad stands out with its vibrant ingredients and robust flavors. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of balsamic marinade and Gorgonzola cheese adds depth and richness that will impress your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the salad with seasonal vegetables or substitute the steak with grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist.
• Healthy and Fresh: Packed with greens and fresh ingredients, this salad is a great option for clean eating during the summer months.
• Perfect for Grilling: Enjoy the smoky flavor of grilled corn and steak that elevate this salad to a gourmet level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron grill pan or outdoor grill
• Large ziplock bag
• Small bowl for gremolata
• Whisk for vinaigrette
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron grill pan or outdoor grill: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly grilled steak and corn, giving you those desirable grill marks.
• Large ziplock bag: Ideal for marinating the steak, ensuring every inch is coated in flavor without making a mess.
• Whisk for vinaigrette: Ensures that your dressing is well combined and emulsified, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade

• 1 lb sirloin steak
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Salad

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 2 heads endive lettuce, outer leaves removed, halved and roughly chopped into 2 inch pieces
• 6 cups mixed spring greens

For the Grilled Corn

• 1 corn on the cob, husk removed
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling corn

For the Gremolata

• 2 tablespoons basil leaves, minced
• 2 tablespoons parsley, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

For the Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• Dash of salt and fresh ground black pepper

How to Make Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a medium-sized bowl, stir together all ingredients for the marinade. Place the sirloin steak in a large ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, seal the bag tightly, and shake gently to coat. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Gremolata

Combine minced basil leaves, parsley, lemon zest, and garlic in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Grill Corn on the Cob

Preheat your cast iron grill pan at medium-high heat or prepare your outdoor grill. Drizzle olive oil over the corn on the cob and season it with salt and pepper. Place it on the heated grill using tongs. Cook each side until you see grill marks forming on the kernels. This should take about 10 minutes total. Once done, remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice off kernels from the cob.

Step 4: Grill The Steak

Remove marinated steak from refrigerator. Place it on your preheated grill or grill pan. Grill both sides for about 4–5 minutes if you prefer rare to medium rare doneness. Once cooked to your liking, remove steak from heat onto a plate and let it rest for five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Whisk Together Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients required for vinaigrette until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble The Salad

In a large bowl, toss together half of your prepared vinaigrette with half of gremolata along with mixed greens, endives, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, sliced corn kernels, and red onion until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve With Sliced Steak

Lay sliced steak beautifully on top of your tossed salad. Drizzle remaining gremolata and vinaigrette over both steak and salad as desired before serving.

Enjoy your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn as a refreshing meal perfect for summer dining!

How to Serve Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

This Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any gathering or special occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a Casual Dinner

• Pair with crusty bread for a cozy feel.
• Serve in large bowls for a family-style meal.

As a Fancy Lunch

• Plate in small portions for an upscale presentation.
• Add a glass of chilled white wine to enhance flavors.

For Meal Prep

• Divide into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

As Part of a BBQ Spread

• Include alongside grilled vegetables and other meats.
• Set up a salad bar where guests can customize their own servings.

For Special Occasions

• Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
• Use colorful plates to make the dish pop visually.

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How to Perfect Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

To ensure that your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose quality steak: Opt for fresh, high-quality sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate longer: If you have time, marinate the steak for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
• Control grill temperature: Make sure your grill is properly heated before cooking the steak and corn to achieve ideal grill marks.
• Rest the steak: Allowing the steak to rest after grilling helps retain juices, making it more flavorful when sliced.
• Customize your greens: Feel free to mix different greens based on availability or personal preference; arugula adds a peppery kick.
• Drizzle vinaigrette just before serving: This keeps the salad fresh and prevents sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

Complement your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn by serving it alongside these delightful side dishes. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile that pairs well with the salad.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and grilled until charred; perfect for adding a smoky flavor.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these seasoned potatoes make a hearty companion.
3. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser that complements any salad beautifully.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, bell peppers, and lemon dressing adds nutrition and texture.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs provide a low-carb side that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade – Marinating the steak is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip this step; let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcooking the Steak – Cooking steak too long can make it tough. Aim for a rare to medium-rare finish for the best texture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients – The quality of your ingredients matters. Use fresh greens and high-quality Gorgonzola for maximum flavor.
• Not Letting the Steak Rest – Allowing the steak to rest after grilling helps retain juices. Wait at least five minutes before slicing.
• Forgetting About Seasoning – Proper seasoning enhances flavors. Don’t forget to season both your steak and salad components adequately.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

• It’s not recommended to freeze salads with fresh greens as they may wilt and lose texture.
• If you want to freeze, consider storing just the marinated steak separately.

Reheating Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad components on a baking sheet and warm gently without cooking them further.
• Microwave – Use low power settings and heat in short bursts, stirring between sessions to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the vinaigrette for Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn?

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Gorgonzola?

Yes! If Gorgonzola isn’t available or preferred, you can substitute it with feta or blue cheese for a similar tangy flavor.

What sides pair well with Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or crusty bread as side dishes.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep ingredients ahead of time but assemble the salad just before serving to keep greens fresh and crisp.

Is Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep; just keep dressing separate until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for summer dinners or any occasion when you want a fresh meal. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!