Name: Savory Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad for Fresh Enjoyment
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb skirt steak (Aim for medium-rare.); 2 tbsp olive oil (For marinating and grilling.); 2 cloves garlic (Fresh minced garlic.); 2 tbsp lemon juice (Can substitute with lime juice.); 2 ears corn on the cob (Grilled adds sweetness.); 4 cups romaine lettuce (Can substitute with mixed greens.); 1 large avocado (Creamy texture.); 1/2 cup cotija cheese (Salted crumbled cheese.); 1/2 cup marinated red onions (Add tangy crunch.); 2 tbsp chives (Enhances dressing flavor.); 1 bunch green goddess dressing ingredients (Chives are key.)

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, smoky aroma of grilled corn wafting through the summer air. As I fire up the grill, anticipation builds for a dish that perfectly marries juicy steak with vibrant greens: the Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad. This delightful recipe not only stands out for its fresh ingredients but also for its impressive simplicity, making it a go-to for summer gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal. With a quick prep time and a deliciously clean eating approach, you’ll find this dish an effortless crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your summer dining experience—are you hungry for vibrant flavors and a colorful presentation? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Fresh Ingredients: Savor the blend of juicy steak and smoky corn that brings summer flavors to life.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, enjoy a gourmet meal without the fuss.
Vibrant Presentation: This salad is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it perfect for gatherings.
Versatile Options: Mix things up with seasonal veggies or alternate proteins for a personalized touch. If you love incorporating fresh ingredients, you’ll also enjoy recipes like Cabbage Salad with Yogurt or Seafood Salad Flavorful.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Gluten-free and clean eating-friendly, this dish keeps your summer meals healthy!

Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad Ingredients

For the Steak

Skirt Steak – This is the star protein; aim for a perfect medium-rare to lock in flavor and tenderness.
Olive Oil – Use it for marinating and grilling, enhancing the steak’s moisture; feel free to swap in avocado oil if preferred.
Garlic – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; for the best flavor, avoid pre-minced versions.
Lemon Juice – Brightens up the flavors of both the steak and dressing; lime juice can work in a pinch as a zesty alternative.

For the Salad

Corn on the Cob – Grilling this adds sweetness and a smoky char; frozen corn can be a backup but lacks the same taste.
Romaine Lettuce – Creates a crisp base for the salad; you can substitute with mixed greens or spinach for variety.
Avocado – Infuses creaminess and healthy fats; if you’re out, feta can replace its creamy texture.
Cotija Cheese – Brings a salty, crumbly joy; feta serves as a tasty substitute if needed.
Marinated Red Onions – Provide tangy crunch; if short on time, quick-pickled red onions can work too.
Chives – Fresh chives enhance the dressing’s flavor; green onions can stand in if you don’t have them on hand.

For the Dressing

Green Goddess Dressing Ingredients – Chives are a key for brightness; adjust seasonings based on your taste preference.

Get ready to celebrate summer with this Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad, bursting with flavors and simple enough for weeknight meals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Begin by cutting your skirt steak into manageable pieces and placing them in a bowl. Add a generous drizzle of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the steak is well coated in the marinade. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse beautifully.

Step 2: Grill the Corn
While the steak marinates, prepare the corn on the cob. Rub each ear with olive oil to enhance the grilled flavor. Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the corn on the grates. Grill the corn for about 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until you see nice char marks. After grilling, let it cool slightly before cutting off the kernels into a bowl.

Step 3: Grill the Steak
Once marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the pieces of skirt steak on the grill and cook for approximately 3 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare finish. You’ll know they’re ready when the outside has a beautiful sear and the interior is warm pink. After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes before cutting it into ½-inch cubes.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
While the steak is resting, prepare the Green Goddess Dressing. In a blender, combine the chives, olive oil, lemon juice, and any other desired ingredients. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Refrigerate the dressing until you’re ready to dress your Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, mix the chopped romaine lettuce with a pinch of salt, which helps to enhance the flavor. Add the grilled steak cubes, charred corn kernels, sliced avocado, and crumbled cotija cheese. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure everything is well coated. Top with marinated onions and fresh chives for an extra flavor boost. Serve immediately and savor every bite!

Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad Variations

Embrace your creativity with delightful twists on this refreshing summer salad!

Protein Swap: Substitute skirt steak with flank steak or grilled chicken for a tasty alternative. These options can offer a different flavor profile while still keeping the dish hearty.
Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra crunch and vibrant color. This not only elevates the look but enhances the overall nutritional value too.
Spicy Kick: Spice things up by introducing jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes into the salad. It brings an exciting heat that tantalizes the taste buds and makes every bite interesting.
Herbed Delight: Swap out chives for fresh dill or cilantro to create a distinct flavor, providing an aromatic experience that complements the steak beautifully.
Cheese Variation: Try crumbled goat cheese instead of cotija for a creamier texture and a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with the grilled corn.
Dress It Differently: Experiment with a honey-lime vinaigrette instead of the Green Goddess dressing for a sweet and zesty contrast that balances well with savory steak flavors.
Fruit Addition: Toss in some diced mango or strawberries for a fruity sweetness that brightens up the salad and adds a refreshing element perfect for summer.
Grilled Charm: Consider grilling romaine lettuce halves for a smoky flavor that elevates the dish further. It’s a great way to introduce another layer of grilled goodness to your Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad!

If you’re on the lookout for more vibrant salads, check out this delightful Cabbage Salad with Yogurt or indulge in a savory Crab Salad Again for variety in your summer meals!

What to Serve with Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad?

Elevate your summer dining experience with these delightful pairings that will complement the vibrant flavors of your salad.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture offers a satisfying contrast to the fresh, crisp elements of the salad.
Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring a smoky, charred flavor, enhancing your cookout vibe.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit medley can balance the savory notes of the steak and dressing, leaving your taste buds refreshed.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the salad’s flavors, creating a refreshing sip for warmer days.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing, making for a delicious addition to your meal.
Lemon Sorbet: This light, zingy dessert provides a refreshing palate cleanser, wrapping up your summer feast on a sweet note.
Cucumber Salad: A tangy cucumber salad with vinegary dressing is a crisp, refreshing option that adds a burst of flavor while keeping things light.
Cornbread Muffins: With a hint of sweetness, these muffins echo the corn in the salad, tying your meal together cohesively.
Mojito Mocktail: A refreshing blend of mint and lime brings an invigorating taste that complements the salad’s herbs while keeping things cool.

Make Ahead Options

These Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad components are perfect for meal prep, providing a delightful dining experience with minimal last-minute effort! You can marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance, which allows flavors to penetrate deeper for an even tastier result. Additionally, grill the corn and cut the kernels off the cob ahead of time; they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their quality, place the steak and corn in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the marinated steak for about 3 minutes on each side, toss everything together with the freshly made dressing, and enjoy a meal that feels freshly made without the fuss!

Storage Tips for Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture of the ingredients, especially the lettuce and avocado, may change significantly upon thawing.

Reheating: If you need to reheat the steak, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out, but enjoy the salad cold for the best experience.

Airtight Storage: Always ensure the salad is stored in airtight containers to keep the ingredients crisp and flavorful until ready to enjoy again.

Expert Tips for Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad

Rest the Steak: Allowing the steak to rest for a few minutes after grilling locks in the juices, enhancing flavor and tenderness significantly.
Salt Your Greens: Lightly salting the romaine lettuce before adding other ingredients draws out excess moisture and elevates the overall flavor of the Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad.
Grill with Care: Maintain a consistent medium-high heat while grilling to achieve the ideal char on the steak and corn without overcooking.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs, like chives, will truly enhance the dressing and overall taste, so opt for fresh whenever possible.
Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices in the marinade, like smoked paprika or cumin, to give the steak a unique twist that’ll make your salad even more delicious.

Summer Steak And Grilled Corn Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of steak is best for this salad?
Absolutely! Skirt steak is recommended for the Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad due to its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked medium-rare. If skirt steak isn’t available, flank steak or grilled chicken also make excellent alternatives.

How should I select ripe avocados and corn?
Very! Choose firm avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates ripeness. For corn, look for firm ears with bright green husks and moist silk. Avoid cobs with dark spots or dry husks, as they may be past their prime.

How do I store leftovers securely?
It’s best to keep any uneaten Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To extend the flavor and texture, store the dressing separately, as it can make the greens soggy over time.

Can I freeze this salad?
Not really! Freezing is not recommended for the Summer Steak and Grilled Corn Salad because the lettuce and avocado may become mushy and lose their fresh appeal. If you have leftover steak, you can freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight container, then use it for other dishes.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the steak and prepare the dressing a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and just grill the steak fresh before assembling the salad to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For sure! This salad is gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets. However, if you or your guests have specific allergies (like dairy), consider omitting the cotija cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure all components meet your dietary needs.