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I still remember my first attempt at grilling a steak for my dad. It was Father's Day, and I was determined to impress him. What I presented was... well, let's just say it resembled shoe leather more than a succulent steak. We laughed about it for years. But, over time, I’ve learned a thing or two about preparing a steak, and this Father's Day Steak Salad is a testament to that journey. It combines tender, juicy steak with the crisp freshness of a salad, all brought together by a dreamy Green Goddess dressing.
This salad isn't just about the steak, though. It's a symphony of flavors and textures. The peppery arugula, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and creamy avocado all play their part in creating a dish that's both satisfying and refreshing. And the Green Goddess dressing? Oh, it’s a game-changer. Homemade is best, trust me on this one; the store-bought stuff just doesn’t compare. We'll use fresh herbs to get that real, vibrant flavor.
So, if you're looking for a way to spoil your dad this Father's Day (or any day, really), give this Steak Salad a try. It's surprisingly easy to put together, and the results are restaurant-worthy. I’ve even added a few cheeky twists and tips along the way to make sure yours will turn out beautifully. Get ready to fire up that grill and show Dad how much you appreciate him with a salad that’s anything but ordinary. What are you waiting for? Let's get cooking! And if you screw up the steak the first time, hey, at least you'll have a good story to tell. Happened to me...
Required Equipments
Grill
Mixing Bowls
Blender or Food Processor
Cutting Board
Chef's Knife
Meat Thermometer
Father's Day Steak Salad with Green Goddess Dressing: Frequently Asked Questions
Father's Day Steak Salad with Green Goddess Dressing
Celebrate Father's Day with a vibrant and flavorful Steak Salad, featuring perfectly grilled steak atop a bed of fresh greens, drizzled with creamy Green Goddess Dressing. This dish is a delicious way to show Dad how much you care.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:2 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Let's start with the Green Goddess Dressing: Grab a blender or food processor. Throw in 1 cup of mayonnaise (good quality stuff!), 1/2 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist, which is my personal preference), 1/4 cup of fresh parsley (roughly chopped, no need to be precise), 1/4 cup of fresh chives (again, chop 'em up), 2 tablespoons of fresh tarragon (this is the secret ingredient, don't skip it!), 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (freshly squeezed, please!), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1/4 teaspoon of salt (or to taste), and a pinch of black pepper.
Blend, baby, blend! Process until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Maybe you want a bit more lemon? Go for it! More garlic? If you're feeling bold, why not? Pour the dressing into a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Pro Tip: Make this a day ahead – the flavors get even better!
Now, for the star of the show: the steak. Choose your favorite cut. I'm partial to ribeye because it's so flavorful and tender, but sirloin or New York strip works, too. Aim for a steak that's about 1-inch thick. Pat it dry with paper towels (this is crucial for getting a good sear).
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy! A good crust starts with good seasoning. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder if you’re feeling fancy.
Heat your grill (or a cast-iron skillet) to high heat. You want it screaming hot! Drizzle the steak with a bit of olive oil. Carefully place the steak on the hot grill. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done (but please, don't overcook it!).
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Medium-rare is around 130-135°F. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This is super important! It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
While the steak is resting, prepare your salad base. In a large bowl, combine 5 ounces of arugula (or your favorite salad greens), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 cucumber (sliced), and 1 avocado (diced).
Thinly slice the steak against the grain. This makes it easier to chew and enhances the tenderness.
Arrange the sliced steak over the salad greens. Drizzle generously with the Green Goddess Dressing. Garnish with some extra fresh herbs, if desired. Serve immediately and watch Dad's eyes light up!
Optional additions to make this recipe even better: grilled corn, some crumbled bacon, or croutons. For a fun kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the Green Goddess dressing
📝 Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Feel free to add other vegetables like grilled corn or bell peppers to the salad.
The best meals are those shared with the people we love. This Father's Day, let's honor dad with a steak salad that's as bold and unforgettable as he is.