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Father's Day is approaching, and if your dad is anything like mine, he appreciates a good, home-cooked meal more than any store-bought gift. This year, I'm ditching the usual tie and opting for something far more satisfying: a Father's Day Steak Salad with Balsamic Glazed Onions. Its a dish that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and healthy, packed with flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. One of my fondest memories involves grilling steaks with my own dad; he taught me everything from choosing the right cut to achieving that perfect sear. This recipe is a nod to those cherished moments, a way to celebrate him with every delicious bite.
What makes this salad special? It's the combination of textures and tastes. The steak, grilled to perfection, offers a rich, savory foundation. The balsamic-glazed onions add a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat. And the salad itself, a mix of fresh greens, provides a crisp, refreshing contrast. Plus, you can customize it with Dad's favorite veggies – maybe some roasted peppers, crumbled blue cheese, or toasted pecans. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it truly his own. I once tried adding grilled pineapple to a similar salad, and it was a surprisingly delightful twist! Have you ever thought about adding fruit to a savory salad? It might just change your life!
Required Equipments
Grill or Cast-Iron Skillet
Skillet
Cutting Board
Knife
Mixing Bowl
Meat Thermometer
Father's Day Steak Salad with Balsamic Glazed Onions: Frequently Asked Questions
Father's Day Steak Salad with Balsamic Glazed Onions
Surprise Dad this Father's Day with a hearty Steak Salad featuring tender grilled steak, sweet balsamic-glazed onions, and a fresh mix of greens. Its easy to make and is a flavor explosion he'll absolutely adore!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:2 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Prepare the Balsamic Glazed Onions: Thinly slice two large red onions. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften (about 5-7 minutes).
Add Balsamic Glaze: Pour in 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and the glaze has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know they’re ready when they're a beautiful, deep brown and smell amazing. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prep the Steak: Choose your favorite cut of steak (I recommend sirloin or ribeye) about 1 inch thick. Pat it dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Grill the Steak: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don't have a grill, a cast-iron skillet works just as well. Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature.
Let it Rest: Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Don't skip this step; it makes a huge difference!
Prepare the Salad: While the steak is resting, wash and dry your favorite salad greens (such as mixed greens, arugula, or spinach). In a large bowl, combine the greens with any other vegetables you like, such as sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado. I personally love adding some grilled corn for extra sweetness.
Slice the Steak: After the steak has rested, thinly slice it against the grain. This ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Assemble the Salad: Arrange the sliced steak over the salad greens. Top with the balsamic-glazed onions. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette dressing (a simple balsamic vinaigrette works perfectly).
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately. Garnish with crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese, if desired. Watch Dad's face light up with joy!
📝 Notes
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, avocado, or roasted corn.
For a tangier flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the onions while they're caramelizing.
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a tablespoon of brown sugar until it thickens.
A perfectly grilled steak isn't just a meal; it's an expression of love and appreciation. Especially when paired with balsamic-glazed onions on a vibrant salad!