Steak Taco Salad

This Steak Taco Salad is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer grilling. With thinly sliced marinated flank steak atop a bed of fresh greens, creamy avocado, and crunchy plantain chips, this salad is not only satisfying but also perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a light dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its wholesome ingredients and zesty cilantro ranch dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The marinated flank steak combined with fresh vegetables creates a delicious balance of tastes.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: This salad includes healthy fats from avocado and plenty of vitamins from mixed greens and veggies.
• Quick and Easy: Preparation takes just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings; it suits various dietary needs.
• Whole30 Compliant: This recipe adheres to Whole30 guidelines while still being indulgent and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Steak Taco Salad, you will need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the flank steak, enhancing its flavor significantly.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the steak and mixing the dressing, keeping your ingredients organized.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the dressing ingredients thoroughly for an even consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the steak and chopping vegetables.

Ingredients

This steak taco salad is perfect for summer grilling and packed with all the good stuff! Thinly sliced marinated flank steak with greens, avocado, tomatoes, peppers, onions, plantain chips and a tangy, zesty cilantro ranch dressing. It’s Whole30 compliant, paleo, gluten free and dairy free.

For the Steak Marinade

• 1 1/4 lbs flank steak
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp taco seasoning (I used Primal Palate)
• 1 Tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup homemade mayo or purchased paleo mayo
• 3 Tbsp plain unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 3 Tbsp cilantro (minced)
• 2 tsp fresh lime juice
• Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed greens (roughly chopped)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 medium bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium avocado (sliced)
• Plantain chips (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 small onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (thinly sliced [optional])
• Extra cilantro for garnish

How to Make Steak Taco Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

1. Sprinkle the steak on both sides with salt and pepper. Place it in a shallow dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, and avocado oil.
3. Pour the marinade over the steak and flip to coat evenly. Cover it and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In another bowl, whisk together mayo, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, minced cilantro, lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the dressing in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Preheat your grill to high heat. Brush it lightly with oil.
2. Shake off excess marinade from the steak before grilling.
3. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes or until desired doneness is achieved.
4. Transfer the grilled steak to a plate to rest while you assemble your salad.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

1. On a serving platter or large bowl, layer mixed greens first.
2. Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, sliced avocados, plantain chips, onions, and jalapeno if desired.
3. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips and place on top of your salad.
4. Drizzle generously with cilantro ranch dressing before serving.

Enjoy this delectable Steak Taco Salad {Paleo, Whole30}, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Steak Taco Salad

Serving your Steak Taco Salad can elevate the dining experience, making it not only delicious but visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to serve this vibrant dish that everyone will love.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each portion in a bowl for a personal touch. This allows guests to customize their toppings and enjoy their salad at their own pace.

Family Style Platter

• Present the steak taco salad on a large platter for a communal feel. Guests can help themselves and mix and match ingredients as they like.

Taco Bar Setup

• Create a taco bar by offering each component of the salad separately. Include bowls of mixed greens, sliced steak, toppings like tomatoes and avocado, and dressing. This encourages everyone to build their perfect salad.

Garnished with Extra Cilantro

• Top each serving with extra cilantro for added freshness. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also makes for a beautiful presentation.

How to Perfect Steak Taco Salad

To make your Steak Taco Salad truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the steak to marinate for longer than 30 minutes if possible. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh produce adds more flavor and nutrients, making your salad more vibrant.
• Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the steak, always slice against the grain to ensure tender bites in every serving.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on preference. Options like radishes or corn can add extra crunch and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Steak Taco Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Steak Taco Salad enhances the meal’s overall appeal and satisfaction. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Zucchini
   Grilled zucchini is easy to prepare and adds a smoky flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that balances out savory flavors in the salad while adding extra fiber.
3. Cauliflower Rice
   Light and fluffy cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb side that’s both filling and nutritious.
4. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole is an excellent dip or topping that pairs perfectly with the flavors of steak taco salad.
5. Spicy Salsa
   A homemade salsa offers a zesty kick that can be served on the side or drizzled over individual servings of salad.
6. Crispy Baked Tortilla Chips
   These chips provide an excellent crunch alongside your salad; opt for baked versions for a healthier choice.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn adds a lovely pop of color and flavor, perfect for summer gatherings.
8. Chilled Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the steak taco salad, providing a light contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Steak Taco Salad, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the steak adequately can result in bland flavors. Always season generously with salt and pepper before marinating.
• Bold marinade time: Skipping the marinating time will reduce flavor depth. Allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to penetrate the meat.
• Bold cutting technique: Slicing the steak against the grain is essential for tender pieces. Always check the grain direction before slicing.
• Bold ingredient quality: Using low-quality vegetables or dressing can diminish the salad’s overall taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Bold assembly order: Layering ingredients incorrectly can lead to soggy salad. Start with greens and add toppings carefully to maintain texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Steak Taco Salad

• It’s best to freeze only unassembled components (steak and veggies).
• Use freezer-safe containers and consume within a month for best quality.

Reheating Steak Taco Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Steak Taco Salad {Paleo, Whole30} that might help you in your cooking journey.

Can I use different meats for this Steak Taco Salad?

Yes! You can substitute flank steak with chicken, turkey, or even lamb for variety.

How do I make the dressing dairy-free?

The dressing is already dairy-free; it uses homemade mayo and almond milk as substitutes.

What can I use instead of plantain chips?

You may opt for homemade tortilla chips or other compliant veggie chips that fit your dietary needs.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, while grilling the steak adds an additional 12 minutes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep; just keep components separate until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Steak Taco Salad offers a delicious and nutritious option that’s perfect for any summer gathering or meal prep. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences while keeping it healthy and compliant. Try it out today and enjoy a burst of flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Steak Taco Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This vibrant Steak Taco Salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and hearty ingredients that make it the ideal dish for any occasion. Juicy grilled flank steak is marinated to perfection and served atop a colorful bed of mixed greens, creamy avocado, and crunchy plantain chips. Drizzled with a zesty cilantro ranch dressing, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with wholesome nutrients. Whether you’re prepping for a summer barbecue or seeking a light dinner option, this delightful recipe is quick to prepare and easily customizable.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/4 lbs flank steak
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp taco seasoning
• 1 Tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1/2 cup homemade or paleo mayo
• 3 Tbsp plain unsweetened almond milk
• 3 Tbsp cilantro (minced)
• 2 tsp fresh lime juice
• 6 cups mixed greens (roughly chopped)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 medium bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium avocado (sliced)
• Plantain chips (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 small onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (thinly sliced [optional])
• Extra cilantro for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Marinate the steak: Season both sides with salt and pepper. Whisk together coconut aminos, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, and avocado oil. Coat the steak in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayo, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, minced cilantro, lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Chill until ready to use.
3. Grill the steak: Preheat grill to high heat. Grill steak for about 5-7 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Let rest before slicing.
4. Assemble the salad: Layer mixed greens on a platter and top with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, sliced avocados, plantain chips, onions, and jalapeno if using. Slice the rested steak against the grain and place on top. Drizzle with dressing before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 28g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 95mg