Irresistible Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella

There is nothing quite like a fresh and vibrant Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella to brighten your meal times. This dish brings together tender, juicy steak, crisp greens, and creamy shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) in each delightful bite. The tangy balsamic dressing perfectly complements the savory steak and rich cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether for a quick lunch or an impressive dinner, this salad offers an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Balanced Flavors: Tangy balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully with savory steak and creamy mozzarella for a dish full of flavor.
• Simple and Satisfying: Easy to prepare with basic ingredients that come together quickly without sacrificing taste.
• Nutritious and Colorful: Loaded with fresh greens, protein-packed steak, and wholesome cheese for a nourishing meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a weekday dinner.
• Customizable and Versatile: Can be adapted to suit dietary needs or personal preferences without losing its charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella comes together with a handful of fresh and staple ingredients, each carefully contributing to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color. Grab quality produce and steak for the best results.

• Ribeye steak: Tender and juicy, this cut offers rich flavor and a satisfying bite.
• Mixed greens: A combination of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine adds freshness and a peppery note.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Creamy and mild, it melts beautifully into the salad’s textures.
• Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they bring a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle sharpness without overpowering the dish.
• Balsamic vinegar: Provides tangy, slightly sweet acidity for the dressing.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Balances the vinegar and adds a silky finish.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic delivers a gentle kick enhancing all the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight every ingredient.
• Smoked turkey bacon (optional): Adds a smoky crunch for extra texture and flavor.

Variations for Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella

Feel free to make this Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella your own by tweaking ingredients or adding new touches. It’s so easy to adjust for different tastes, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand.

• Grilled chicken alternative: Swap the steak for grilled chicken breast for a lighter protein option.
• Add avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring richness and healthy fats to the salad.
• Use baby kale: Replace mixed greens with baby kale for a heartier texture and earthy flavor.
• Switch up the cheese: Try adding a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) along with crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
• Spicy kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the salad a bit of heat.

How to Make Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by seasoning your ribeye steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat a pan over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it well done. Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste, balancing the tanginess with a touch of sweetness if desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and thin slices of red onion. If using smoked turkey bacon, cook it until crisp, chop it up, and add it to the mix. This will add a smoky crunch to the salad’s texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Place the salad base onto plates or a serving platter. Top with sliced steak and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for creaminess. Drizzle the balsamic dressing evenly over the top for a glossy, flavorful finish.

Step 5: Final Touches

Gently toss everything if you prefer or leave it layered for a rustic presentation. Serve immediately so the greens stay crisp and the mozzarella holds its softness.

Pro Tips for Making Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella

• Rest your steak: Allowing it to rest after cooking keeps the meat juicy and tender for the best texture.
• Use quality balsamic vinegar: A good quality balsamic vinegar makes a noticeable difference in the dressing’s depth and richness.
• Slice thinly: Thin steak slices blend better with the salad, making every bite even and flavorful.
• Don’t overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid soggy greens while still infusing the salad with vibrant flavors.
• Room temperature ingredients: Let salad components come to room temperature to enhance flavor melding without wilting the greens.

How to Serve Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add aromatic brightness, while toasted pine nuts or walnuts bring a crunchy contrast. Adding a few lemon zest sprinkles can elevate the salad’s freshness even more.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with crusty whole grain bread or warm garlic crostini. Light soups, such as tomato bisque or chilled cucumber soup, make wonderful companions that keep the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella on rustic wooden boards for a casual vibe or arrange it in individual glass bowls for an elegant presentation. Layering the ingredients in a mason jar makes it portable and visually appealing for on-the-go meals or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad components separately when possible to preserve freshness, especially the steak and greens. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine just before serving.

Freezing

While the salad is best fresh, cooked steak can be frozen separately for up to two months. Avoid freezing shredded mozzarella cheese mixed in the salad, as it may become watery when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat steak gently over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals to prevent overcooking. The greens and cheese are best enjoyed fresh, so avoid reheating the assembled salad.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this salad?

Absolutely, cuts like sirloin or flank steak also work well and can be grilled or pan-seared to your desired doneness.

Is shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) the best choice?

Yes, it melts beautifully, adds creamy texture, and complements the balsamic dressing and steak without overpowering the flavors.

How do I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?

Swap the steak for grilled tofu or tempeh, and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to maintain richness.

Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?

Definitely! The vinaigrette can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor harmony.

What type of greens work best in this salad?

A mix of tender baby spinach, peppery arugula, and crisp romaine offers great variety in texture and flavor, but feel free to experiment with lettuces you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Balsamic Steak Salad with Mozzarella is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and light, ideal for any season or occasion. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite each forkful is bursting with flavor and texture that warms the heart and delights the palate.

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