As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty meal that captures the essence of autumn. When my kitchen fills with the rich aroma of grilled steak mingled with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, it’s a sure sign that cozy evenings have arrived. Enter the Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad—a delightful mix of flavors and textures that transforms an ordinary dinner into a warm gathering around the table.
This dish is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or impressing guests, this salad offers a perfect harmony of freshness and heartiness. Flank steak marinated to perfection, paired with peppery arugula, sweet cubed potatoes, and juicy cherry tomatoes, makes for a satisfying meal that pleases everyone. Join me as we embrace the flavors of the season with this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe!
Why You'll Love This Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad
- This Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
- The combination of grilled flank steak and roasted sweet potatoes delivers a rich and satisfying flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- With its mix of fresh greens, colorful vegetables, and vibrant dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a showstopper for any dining occasion.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring that it’s always a hit with family and friends.
Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Flank steak – a tender cut that’s perfect for grilling and brings rich flavor to your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad.
• Mixed greens – use arugula and spinach for a peppery yet mild base that balances the other flavors.
• Sweet potatoes – cubed and roasted, they add a natural sweetness and creamy texture to the salad.
• Cherry tomatoes – halved for a burst of juiciness, these colorful gems brighten the salad.
• Red onion – thinly sliced, they provide a zesty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the dish’s sweetness.
For the Dressing
• Balsamic vinegar – the key to a tangy and sweet dressing that ties all the elements together.
• Extra virgin olive oil – for a smooth and rich texture, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, these essentials can elevate the flavor profile of your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad.
How to Make Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad
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Marinate the flank steak in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper for at least one hour. This step infuses the meat with a delightful flavor that elevates your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad.
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast them for 25–30 minutes until they are golden brown and tender.
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Grill the marinated flank steak on a medium-high grill pan for 5–7 minutes per side, checking for your desired doneness. Let the steak rest for five minutes before slicing it against the grain to lock in its juices.
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Combine mixed greens, roasted sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices in a large bowl. Then, top this vibrant mixture with the sliced steak, creating an eye-catching centerpiece for your meal.
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Whisk together the remaining balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Drizzle this dressing over your salad before gently tossing everything together to ensure even coverage of flavors.
Optional: Top with crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad?
As you savor each bite of this hearty salad, consider these delightful accompaniments to create a memorable meal experience.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The warm, toasted bread complements the salad’s freshness with a satisfying crunch and aromatic flavor for a perfect pairing.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With a caramelized finish, these sprouts amplify the earthy elements of the salad, adding richness and depth to your dinner.
- Creamy Polenta: This comforting side brings a velvety texture that balances the salad’s robust flavors, making each forkful a creamy delight.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their subtle sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory steak and roasted sweet potatoes, enhancing the overall palate.
- Autumn Apple Cider: A glass of chilled or warm apple cider pairs wonderfully, echoing the flavors of the season and refreshing your taste buds.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent finish, providing a luxurious sweet note to a well-rounded meal.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this nutty side brings an extra layer of texture and health benefits to your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad experience.
- Warm Mulled Wine: Serve with dinner for a cozy, spiced drink that adds warmth and complements the comforting flavors of autumn.
- Fall Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits will refresh your palate and add a light, fruity contrast to the savory salad.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance to ensure maximum flavor absorption. The sweet potatoes can be roasted and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to maintain their texture. Before serving, reheat the sweet potatoes in the oven briefly for that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth and grill your marinated steak quickly. Assemble your salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onions just before serving for the best texture and flavor, ensuring your meal is just as delicious with minimal effort!
Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad even more delightful!
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Grill Smoke: Add a smoky flavor by preparing the flank steak on a charcoal grill instead of a grill pan. This brings a wonderful depth to the dish that enhances the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
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Herb-Infused: Toss mixed greens with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic lift. Fresh herbs can turn an ordinary salad into something memorable!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top for an extra layer of crunch and a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that contrasts with the sweetness of the potatoes. It’s a wonderful way to add some zest to your salad.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute the flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms, and use maple syrup instead of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and savory dressing. You’ll have a hearty vegan option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Cheese Boost: Crumble goat cheese or blue cheese over the top for a creamy, tangy finish. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet elements of the salad.
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Roasted Beets: Toss in roasted beets alongside the sweet potatoes for added earthiness and a splash of vibrant color. They add a nutritious kick that makes your salad even more sumptuous.
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Citrus Burst: Drizzle a bit of fresh orange or lemon juice along with the dressing for a bright, refreshing twist that uplifts the entire dish. The citrusy zing is a delightful surprise!
How to Store and Freeze Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover steak (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before adding to the salad.
Reheating: To reheat the steak, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet for a few minutes before serving. Avoid reheating the greens and sweet potatoes to maintain texture.
Assembly: If you plan to enjoy the salad over several days, prepare ingredients separately and assemble as needed for maximum freshness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least one hour, but if time allows, consider marinating it overnight for even deeper taste.
- When roasting sweet potatoes, ensure they’re cut into uniform pieces to promote even cooking and achieve that perfect golden brown quality.
- When grilling the steak, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry; this helps achieve a nice sear while keeping it juicy.
- Remember to let the steak rest for five minutes before slicing against the grain to enhance tenderness in your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad.
Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting flank steak?
Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for a bright red color with minimal dark spots. The meat should feel firm to the touch but slightly spring back when pressed. Opt for well-marbled cuts for extra flavor and tenderness.
How should I store leftover Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad?
Very! Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate to maintain the fresh, crisp flavor of the salad ingredients. When ready to enjoy, simply drizzle with dressing and toss.
Can I freeze the ingredients in my Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad?
Certainly! While the assembled salad isn’t great for freezing, you can freeze leftover flank steak. Place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet until heated through.
What if my sweet potatoes are not cooking evenly?
If you notice some sweet potato pieces cooking faster than others, it could be due to different sizes. Make sure to cut them into uniform cubes. If they still cook unevenly, try giving them a gentle toss halfway through roasting. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown color—just right for your Cozy Autumn Harvest Steak Salad!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting any cheese toppings. Be mindful of any allergies you or your guests might have—like tomato allergies—and modify the ingredient list accordingly. You can also substitute the steak with a plant-based alternative like grilled tofu to make it vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy experimenting!
Equipment
- grill pan
- oven
- mixing bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 pound flank steak marinated
- 4 cups mixed greens arugula and spinach
- 2 cups sweet potatoes cubed and roasted
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar divided
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
Steps
- Marinate the flank steak in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes.
- Grill the marinated flank steak on medium-high for 5–7 minutes per side. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Combine mixed greens, roasted sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices in a large bowl. Top with sliced steak.
- Whisk together remaining balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently.
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