Garlic and Herb Steak Salad Recipe
Garlic and Herb Steak Salad is a fresh, vibrant and protein-packed meal that combines juicy, perfectly cooked steak with crisp salad leaves, colourful vegetables, fragrant herbs and a zesty garlic dressing. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, this healthy salad is perfect for lunch, dinner or entertaining guests. Every bite delivers a delicious balance of bold flavours, making it an easy yet impressive recipe the whole family will love.
Equipment
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife Essential for trimming, slicing and preparing all ingredients safely.
- 1 Large Chopping Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables and herbs.
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl Used to combine the salad ingredients evenly.
- 1 Cast-Iron Skillet or Grill Pan – Produces a beautiful sear and locks in the steak's juices.
- 1 Meat Thermometer – Helps achieve your preferred steak doneness accurately.
- 1 Mixing Bowl for Dressing – Ideal for whisking together the garlic herb dressing.
- 1 Whisk Ensures the dressing emulsifies properly.
- 1 Serving Platter – Displays Garlic and Herb Steak Salad beautifully for family meals or entertaining.
- 1 Tong – Makes tossing the salad easy without bruising delicate leaves.
Ingredients
- 900 g Sirloin Steak – Choose a well-marbled steak for maximum tenderness and flavour.
- 6 Garlic Cloves Minced – Fresh garlic creates the bold signature flavour that makes Garlic and Herb Steak Salad unforgettable.
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped – Adds freshness and vibrant colour.
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Basil Chopped – Brings a sweet herbal aroma.
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves – Adds earthy depth to the seasoning.
- 4 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for marinating the steak and preparing the dressing.
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the entire salad with natural acidity.
- 2 Large Cos or Romaine Lettuces – Provide a crisp refreshing base.
- 150 g Mixed Salad Leaves – Adds texture colour and nutritional value.
- 300 g Cherry Tomatoes Halved – Sweet, juicy bursts of flavour throughout the salad.
- 1 Large Cucumber - Offers refreshing crunch.
- 2 Large Avocados Sliced – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- 1 Medium Red Onion Thinly Sliced – Provides mild sweetness and crunch.
- 1 Cup Sweetcorn Kernels – Introduces subtle sweetness and vibrant colour.
- 100 g Crumbled Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy tangy finish.
- 2 Teaspoons Sea Salt – Enhances every ingredient.
- 1 Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Complements the steak beautifully.
- 1 Teaspoon Crushed Chilli Flakes Optional – For those who enjoy a gentle kick.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Steak
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Pat it dry thoroughly with kitchen paper.
- Rub with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, thyme, salt and black pepper.
- Allow the steak to marinate for 20–30 minutes for maximum flavour.
Step 2: Cook The Steak
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat.
- Once hot, place the steak into the pan.
Cook for approximately:
- Rare: 3–4 minutes per side
- Medium-Rare: 4–5 minutes per side
- Medium: 5–6 minutes per side
- Adjust cooking time depending on the steak's thickness.
Step 3: Rest The Steak
- Transfer the cooked steak to a clean plate.
- Cover loosely with foil.
- Allow it to rest for 8–10 minutes.
- Resting keeps the meat juicy and tender.
Step 4: Prepare The Vegetables
- Wash and dry all salad leaves thoroughly.
- Slice the cucumber.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Slice the avocado just before serving.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Chop the fresh herbs.
Step 5: Prepare The Garlic Herb Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Chopped parsley
- Chopped basil
- Thyme
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Whisk until the dressing becomes smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Assemble The Salad
- Add the lettuce and mixed salad leaves to a large serving bowl.
- Scatter over the cucumber, tomatoes, onion and sweetcorn.
- Add sliced avocado evenly around the salad.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
Step 7: Slice The Steak
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rested steak thinly against the grain.
- Cutting against the grain keeps every bite wonderfully tender.
Step 8: Finish The Garlic And Herb Steak Salad
- Arrange the sliced steak neatly over the prepared salad.
- Drizzle generously with the garlic herb dressing.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and basil.
- Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and optional chilli flakes.
- Serve your Garlic and Herb Steak Salad immediately while the steak remains warm and juicy.
Notes
- 🥩 For the juiciest Garlic and Herb Steak Salad, choose a quality cut of steak such as sirloin, ribeye or striploin, and avoid overcooking it.
- 🌡️ Always let the steak rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to keep it tender and full of flavour.
- 🔪 Slice the steak against the grain to ensure every bite is soft and easy to chew.
- 🧄 Fresh garlic and herbs provide the best flavour, so use them whenever possible instead of dried alternatives.
- 🥗 Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent them from becoming soggy.
- 🥑 Add avocado at the last minute to maintain its fresh colour and creamy texture.
- 🍋 Taste the dressing before serving and adjust the lemon juice, salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- ❄️ Store leftover steak, salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to preserve freshness. The salad is best enjoyed within 2 days.
- 🌶️ Feel free to customise your Garlic and Herb Steak Salad with ingredients such as grilled mushrooms, roasted peppers, nuts or your favourite cheese for extra flavour and texture.