Cilantro Lime Steak Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

Dressing:

• 1 clove garlic
• 2 teaspoons seeded and minced jalapeo pepper (optional)
• teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• cup lime juice
• cup packed cilantro leaves
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• teaspoon salt, or to taste
• cup extra-virgin olive oil

Salad:

• 1 pound flat iron steak
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
• cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 plum tomato, diced
• jalapeo pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• 8 cups torn romaine lettuce
• cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup tortilla chips, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Make the dressing. In a blender, pulse garlic, jalapeo, and ginger until finely chopped. Add lime juice, cilantro, honey, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Pulse to blend.

Step 2: With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Blend until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Preheat the broiler with an oven rack set about 4 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil.

Step 4: Season the steak with salt and black pepper, then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Broil the steak in the preheated oven for 3-4 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 135F (57C) for medium-rare.

Step 5: While the steak cooks, combine the corn, bell pepper, onion, tomato, and jalapeo in a mixing bowl.

Step 6: Once the steak is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, slice the steak thinly against the grain.

Step 7: Divide the torn lettuce between 4 plates. Drizzle with the lime dressing, then top with the steak slices and corn mixture. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and serve with tortilla chips on the side.

Tips

If desired, you can use kernels from 1 ear of grilled fresh corn instead of canned corn for an extra smoky flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	575
Total Fat	38g (49% DV)
Saturated Fat	11g (54% DV)
Cholesterol	94mg (31% DV)
Sodium	775mg (34% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	32g (12% DV)
Dietary Fiber	5g (16% DV)
Total Sugars	15g
Protein	30g (60% DV)
Vitamin C	107mg (119% DV)
Calcium	160mg (12% DV)
Iron	2mg (12% DV)
Potassium	552mg (12% DV)

The Cilantro Lime Steak Salad is a vibrant dish that blends bold flavors with fresh ingredients, creating a perfect balance of savory and tangy elements. It features a tender cut of steak paired with crisp greens, sweet corn, spicy jalapeos, and crumbled feta, all dressed in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. While it is relatively modern, its roots lie in the culinary traditions of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, where lime and cilantro are essential flavor components.

History of Cilantro Lime Steak Salad

The combination of cilantro and lime is iconic in many Latin American dishes. These two ingredients are staples in Mexican cuisine, often used in everything from tacos to salsas. The idea of incorporating steak into a salad likely emerged as a fusion of the American love for hearty dishes with the Mexican-inspired zest of lime and cilantro. The Cilantro Lime Steak Salad is a modern creation, gaining popularity in the U.S. during the early 2000s as people sought lighter, fresher alternatives to traditional steak dinners, especially in summer months.

Regional Variations

Though the Cilantro Lime Steak Salad is commonly associated with Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors, it is enjoyed throughout the southwestern United States and beyond. In different regions, variations can be seen in the ingredients and preparation. For example, in coastal areas, you might find versions that include grilled shrimp or fish in place of steak, to reflect local seafood options. Some recipes also use grilled corn, adding a smoky flavor, while others may incorporate additional vegetables like avocado or cucumber for extra freshness.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Cilantro Lime Steak Salad might appear similar to other steak salads, but the key difference lies in its distinctive dressing and the combination of ingredients. While typical steak salads often rely on balsamic or ranch dressings, this recipe features a tangy, lime-based dressing with cilantro and honey, making it both refreshing and slightly sweet. Additionally, the salad is often paired with tortilla chips for an added crunch, a unique touch that distinguishes it from more traditional steak salads.

Where to Serve Cilantro Lime Steak Salad

This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, particularly in warm weather, as it is light, fresh, and easy to prepare. Youll often find it served at casual summer barbecues, in restaurants that specialize in Southwest or Tex-Mex cuisine, or at health-conscious eateries that focus on fresh, vibrant meals. The Cilantro Lime Steak Salad is ideal for a light lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with a cold beverage like iced tea or a light beer.

Fun Facts about Cilantro Lime Steak Salad

• The key ingredientscilantro and limeare not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants, while lime offers a high amount of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
• In some versions of the recipe, fresh grilled corn adds a smoky, sweet flavor, making it a perfect summer dish.
• Cilantro, while widely loved, is also known for having a controversial flavor. Some people perceive cilantro as soapy, a genetic trait that makes it taste differently to certain individuals.
• The salad can be customized in numerous ways, allowing for substitutions such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

FAQ about Cilantro Lime Steak Salad Recipe

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