Introduction
Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s quick to prepare? This Chopped Salad with Grilled Steak is the perfect balance of fresh greens, juicy steak, and a tangy dressing that ties everything together. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a summer BBQ, or just craving a protein-packed salad, this dish is a winner.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
✔ The best cut of steak for grilling
✔ How to chop ingredients for maximum flavor and texture
✔ A zesty homemade dressing that elevates the salad
✔ Tips for meal prepping and variations
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Chopped Salad With Grilled Steak
This isn’t just any salad—it’s a protein-rich, satisfying meal that’s:
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Customizable – Swap ingredients based on preference
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress guests with minimal effort
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Grilled Steak
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak | Best for quick grilling & tenderness |
| 2 tbsp olive oil | For marinating and grilling |
| 1 tsp garlic powder | Adds depth of flavor |
| 1 tsp smoked paprika | For a smoky touch |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
For the Chopped Salad
- Greens: Romaine, kale, or iceberg (chopped finely)
- Veggies: Cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper
- Extras: Avocado, crumbled feta or blue cheese, toasted nuts (optional)
For the Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
- Salt & pepper to taste
(Pro Tip: Make extra dressing—it’s great for drizzling over other salads!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate & Grill the Steak
- Season the steak with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 10+ minutes.
- Grill on high heat (or a cast-iron skillet) for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing.
2. Chop the Salad Ingredients
- Dice all veggies into uniform, bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture.
- Toss them in a large bowl.
3. Make the Dressing
Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
4. Assemble & Serve
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
- Top the salad with steak, avocado, and cheese.
- Drizzle with dressing and enjoy!
(Want extra crunch? Add croutons or toasted almonds!)
Expert Tips for the Best Chopped Salad
🔥 Grill the Steak Perfectly:
- Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling.
- Don’t overcook—flank steak is best at medium-rare.
🥗 Salad Chopping Hack:
- Use a large chef’s knife for even, restaurant-style chops.
- Keep ingredients cold for maximum crispness.
🍽 Meal Prep Friendly:
- Store dressing separately to prevent sogginess.
- Assemble just before eating for freshness.
Variations & Substitutions
🌱 Vegetarian? Swap steak for grilled portobello mushrooms or chickpeas.
🌶 Spicy Kick? Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
🧀 Cheese Lover? Try goat cheese or shaved Parmesan instead of feta.
Final Thoughts
This Chopped Salad with Grilled Steak is a flavor explosion that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer BBQ side, or a meal-prepped lunch.
Try it today and let us know your favorite twist in the comments!