Irresistible Steak Pasta Salad Recipe for Any Occasion

Steak Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with juicy steak, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It’s like a party in your mouth where all the flavors dance together, creating a delightful experience. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and you’re relaxing with friends. The aroma of grilled steak wafts through the air, and your mouth waters at the thought of a delicious meal. This Steak Pasta Salad is perfect for those moments when you want something light yet filling—ideal for summer picnics or casual backyard barbecues.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they were practically fighting over the last serving!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Steak: Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and texture.
• Pasta: I prefer using penne or fusilli for their ability to hold onto the dressing well.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy tomatoes add a burst of sweetness to every bite.
• Cucumber: Crisp cucumber provides a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness and color to the salad.
• Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves for an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Use balsamic vinegar for a tangy contrast that ties everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the other flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Steak: While pasta cooks, season your steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time as needed.

Chop Fresh Veggies: While the steak rests, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they mingle beautifully in each bite.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified. Add salt and pepper to taste—this dressing is key for tying all flavors together.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine pasta, chopped veggies, sliced steak (thinly), and dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in that delightful mixture.

Serve It Up!: Transfer your Steak Pasta Salad onto a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with additional basil if desired. Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to enhance flavors even more!

Now you’ve got yourself an irresistible Steak Pasta Salad that not only satisfies hunger but also impresses anyone lucky enough to share it with you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the steak to enhance its flavor while boiling the pasta. Cook the steak to your desired doneness, and toss everything together with fresh veggies and dressing for a vibrant finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have at home. You can also experiment with different dressings or add cheese for extra creaminess that elevates this salad.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, warm gently in a skillet, adding a splash of dressing if it seems dry.

The first time I made steak pasta salad, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their laughter and compliments turned what started as a simple weeknight meal into a cherished recipe I now make for every gathering.

FAQ

Can I use leftover steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover steak adds convenience and flavor, making this dish even easier.

What’s the best way to marinate the steak?

A mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs works wonders for tenderizing and flavoring.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and is perfect for quick lunches throughout the week. For more inspiration, check out this perfect lunch ideas recipe.

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Steak Pasta Salad

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in this vibrant Steak Pasta Salad, a delightful blend of tender steak, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty balsamic dressing. Perfect for summer picnics or quick weeknight dinners, this colorful dish is both satisfying and easy to customize. Enjoy the explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb sirloin steak
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing thinly.
3. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine pasta, veggies, sliced steak, and dressing; toss gently until well mixed.
6. Serve immediately or chill for an hour to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 300g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg