Savory Honey-Balsamic Steak and Spinach Potato Salad
This delightful Warm Steak and Potato Salad combines tender red potatoes, crispy bacon, and succulent strips of sirloin, all tossed together with fresh baby spinach and sweet grape tomatoes. The warm honey-balsamic dressing adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the beef and smoky bacon. Perfect for spring and summertime dining, this salad is not only filling but also visually appealing. A great way to enjoy a healthy meal that's bursting with flavor!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
small red potato
1 lb (whole)
bacon
3 slices (cooked until crispy)
red onion
1 small (chopped)
boneless sirloin
1 lb (cut into thin strips)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
honey
5 tablespoons (liquid)
apple cider vinegar
5 tablespoons (liquid)
cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon (mixed with 1/2 teaspoon cold water)
baby spinach
1 (6 ounce) bag (fresh)
grape tomatoes
1 cup (halved)
Instructions
1
Start by placing the small red potatoes in a medium-sized saucepan and covering them with cold water. Lightly salt the water, then bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
2
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Cook the bacon until crisp, then remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. In the same skillet, using the drippings from the bacon, add the chopped red onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
3
Next, add the thinly sliced sirloin and salt to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the steak is no longer pink. Once done, remove the steak and onions from the skillet to a plate and keep warm.
4
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the honey and apple cider vinegar. Cook for 2 minutes, then stir in the cornstarch mixed with cold water and continue cooking for another 30 seconds until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat.
5
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and run them under cold water briefly to cool. Cut the potatoes into quarters and place them in a large bowl. Crumble the crispy bacon over the potatoes and add the warm steak-onion mixture.
6
To the bowl, add the baby spinach and halved grape tomatoes. Pour the warm honey-balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients while ensuring the spinach wilts slightly.
7
Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Honey-Balsamic Steak and Spinach Potato Salad?
It is a warm salad combining tender red potatoes, crispy bacon, and succulent sirloin strips with baby spinach and grape tomatoes, all tossed in a warm honey-balsamic dressing.
What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Small red potatoes are recommended as they hold their shape well and provide a tender texture when boiled.
How long should I boil the red potatoes?
The potatoes should be simmered for 15-20 minutes or until they are tender.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
While the recipe calls for boneless sirloin cut into thin strips, you can use other tender beef cuts suited for quick pan-searing.
Is the dressing for this salad served cold?
No, the dressing is prepared in a skillet and served warm to help slightly wilt the spinach.
How do I cook the bacon for this salad?
Cook the bacon slices in a large nonstick skillet until they are crisp, then drain on a paper towel and crumble them.
What do I do with the bacon drippings?
You should use the bacon drippings remaining in the skillet to cook the red onions and steak for added flavor.
How long does it take to cook the steak strips?
The steak strips cook quickly, taking about 2 minutes over medium heat until they are no longer pink.
How do I thicken the honey-balsamic dressing?
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1/2 teaspoon of cold water and stir it into the honey and vinegar mixture for about 30 seconds until it thickens.
What type of vinegar is used in the dressing?
The recipe specifically calls for apple cider vinegar to combine with the honey.
Do I need to cook the baby spinach?
No, the baby spinach is added fresh to the bowl and will wilt slightly from the heat of the other ingredients and the warm dressing.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This salad is best served immediately while warm to ensure the textures of the steak and wilted spinach are ideal.
How should I prepare the grape tomatoes?
The grape tomatoes should be cut in half before being added to the salad bowl.
What is the recommended serving suggestion?
Serve the salad immediately and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients: small red potatoes, bacon, red onion, boneless sirloin, salt, honey, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, baby spinach, and grape tomatoes.
Is this recipe suitable for a specific season?
Yes, it is highlighted as being perfect for spring and summertime dining.
How much steak is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 lb of boneless sirloin.
What size bag of spinach should I buy?
You will need one 6-ounce bag of fresh baby spinach.
How do I prepare the potatoes after boiling?
Drain them, run them briefly under cold water to cool, and then cut them into quarters.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh baby spinach is highly recommended to achieve the specific texture and slight wilting effect intended for this salad.
What is the role of the red onion in this dish?
The chopped red onion is softened in bacon drippings to provide a savory base flavor for the steak.
Can I substitute the honey?
While honey provides the signature sweetness, you could potentially use maple syrup, though it will alter the flavor profile.
Is this salad considered a main course?
Yes, because it contains protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, it is a filling and complete meal.
How do I ensure the steak stays warm?
After cooking the steak and onions, remove them to a plate and keep them covered while you prepare the dressing.
What should the consistency of the dressing be?
The dressing should be a slightly thickened glaze thanks to the cornstarch slurry.
Should I salt the potato water?
Yes, lightly salting the water when boiling the potatoes helps season them from the inside out.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to add other ingredients like cucumber or bell peppers, though they aren't in the original recipe.
Is this recipe easy for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, with a preparation involving simple boiling and pan-searing, it is tagged as an easy dinner and family meal.
How much honey and vinegar are used?
The recipe uses 5 tablespoons of honey and 5 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
Does the recipe require many spices?
The recipe is simple, primarily using salt to season the steak and potatoes, relying on the bacon and honey-balsamic mix for most of the flavor.