Balsamic Steak and Peach Salad

 Balsamic Steak and Peach Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that combines tender grilled steak with juicy, ripe peaches, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. The mix of savory steak, sweet peaches, and fresh greens creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This salad makes an excellent main course for a light summer dinner or a hearty lunch.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak (or your preferred cut)

2 ripe peaches, sliced

4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale)

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese (optional)

1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling the steak)

For the Balsamic Dressing:

3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak:

Preheat your grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat.

Rub the steak with a bit of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or cook to your desired level of doneness.

Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

While the steak is cooking, slice the peaches and thinly slice the red onion.

Wash and dry the mixed greens and set them aside.

Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant (optional).

3. Make the Balsamic Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced peaches, red onion, and toasted nuts (if using).

Drizzle a small amount of the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

5. Top the Salad:

Arrange the sliced steak on top of the salad.

Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese (optional) and drizzle with more balsamic dressing.

6. Serve:

Serve immediately as a delicious, light main course or side dish.

Tips:

For extra flavor: Marinate the steak in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.

Add greens: You can also add arugula or mixed baby greens to complement the sweetness of the peaches.

Grilled peaches: For extra depth of flavor, grill the peach slices for 1-2 minutes on each side before adding to the salad.

This Balsamic Steak and Peach Salad offers a perfect mix of savory, sweet, and tangy, making it a great dish for summer dinners or special occasions!