Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that screams summer, you’ve found it! This Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients and the smoky goodness of the grill. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The combination of tender steak, creamy Gorgonzola, and sweet grilled corn makes every bite a celebration of flavor.

I love this recipe because it brings together everything I adore about summer cooking—vibrant colors, fresh produce, and minimal fuss. In just 20 minutes, you can have a restaurant-worthy dinner on the table that will impress everyone around it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The tangy balsamic vinaigrette paired with savory steak and creamy cheese creates a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.
• Grill-Friendly: Perfect for summer barbecues! Just fire up your grill and enjoy that lovely smokiness in your salad.
• Fresh Ingredients: This salad is packed with wholesome veggies and herbs, making it not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes cooking so enjoyable! For this delightful Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn, here’s what you’ll need:

For the 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to use up some ingredients from your fridge, here are a few fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu instead of steak for a different flavor profile while keeping it hearty.
• Add nuts: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
• Change up the greens: Use spinach or kale instead of mixed spring greens for an earthy twist.
• Try different cheeses: If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, feta or goat cheese would work beautifully too!

How to Make Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a medium-sized bowl, stir together all marinade ingredients. You want each piece of beef coated well in this mix. Place your steaks in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal it tightly and give it a good shake! Letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows all those flavors to infuse into the meat.

Step 2: Make the Gremolata

While your steak is marinating, let’s whip up some gremolata! In a small bowl, combine minced basil, parsley, lemon zest, and garlic. This zesty mix adds freshness to your salad and elevates its overall flavor. Set it aside while we prepare everything else.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Now comes one of my favorite parts—grilling! Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Drizzle olive oil over your corn on the cob and season it generously with salt and pepper. Grill each side until beautiful char marks form—about 10 minutes total should do it. Once grilled to perfection, let it cool before slicing off those sweet kernels.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Take that marinated steak out of the fridge—it’s time to grill! Place it on your preheated grill or pan. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes to reach rare to medium-rare doneness (adjust according to your preference). After grilling, let it rest on a plate for five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl (you can even use one from earlier), whisk together your vinaigrette ingredients until well combined. This tangy dressing will be drizzled over everything later!

Step 6: Toss Together Your Salad

In a large bowl, toss together half of the vinaigrette with half of the gremolata along with mixed greens, endives, tomatoes, gorgonzola cheese crumbles, sliced corn kernels, and red onion. Mixing these fresh elements ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 7: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Lay those lovely slices of steak right on top of your vibrant salad. Drizzle any remaining gremolata and vinaigrette over everything as desired. Just like that—you’ve created a beautiful dish that’s bursting with freshness!

Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn! It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table too!

Pro Tips for Making Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

Creating a stunning and delicious salad is easier than you think, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: If time allows, marinate the steak for a few hours or even overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making each bite incredibly juicy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes and greens whenever possible. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also adds vibrant color and nutrients to your salad.
• Adjust the Cheese: If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, try substituting it with feta or goat cheese. Each cheese brings its unique flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the salad to your taste preferences.
• Experiment with Greens: Mix up the greens! Adding arugula or spinach can introduce different textures and flavors, making your salad even more interesting.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the salad right after assembling. This keeps the greens crisp and ensures that the flavors are at their freshest.

How to Serve Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn

This Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are some creative ways to present this dish beautifully on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
• Microgreens: These tiny greens provide a fresh burst of flavor and make for an elegant touch on top of your salad.
• Edible Flowers: For a colorful presentation, consider adding edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies. They brighten up the dish while being completely safe to eat!

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender make a perfect side that mirrors the summer grilling theme.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, herbs, and lemon juice serves as a nutritious side that pairs well with the robust flavors of your main dish.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add a natural sweetness that balances out the savory components of your steak salad.
• Garlic Bread: Simple yet satisfying, garlic bread provides a warm contrast to your chilled salad, making it a comforting addition to your meal.

With these tips on serving and garnishing, you’re ready to impress family and friends with this delightful summer dish! Enjoy every bite of your Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is an excellent choice for meal prep! It packs well, tastes even better the next day, and is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Keep the steak and salad components separate if possible to prevent sogginess.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• While it’s not ideal to freeze salads, you can freeze the grilled steak.
• Slice the cooked steak and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen steak, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on a skillet over low heat until heated through.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the steak tough.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Gorgonzola?

Absolutely! If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with feta, goat cheese, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn vegetarian?

To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the sirloin steak and add more grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also include chickpeas for added protein.

What is the best way to grill corn for my Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn?

Grilling corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness. Just brush it lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling until tender and charred.

Can I prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes! You can whisk together your vinaigrette up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and shake well before using.

Final Thoughts

This Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad with Grilled Corn is not just another meal; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that celebrate summer dining. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!