The Steak Caprese Salad with Mushrooms is a vibrant, hearty dish that beautifully showcases the balance of flavors from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The combination of succulent steak and creamy mozzarella pearls topped with sweet cherry tomatoes creates a harmonious blend that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. This salad offers a refreshing take on traditional Caprese salad by incorporating sautéed mushrooms, which add an earthy depth, perfectly complementing the other ingredients. Ideal for those who appreciate the delight of light, yet satisfying meals, this recipe is not only tasty but is designed for those who are conscious of their calorie intake, making it a perfect low-calorie option for lunch or dinner.
In just 30 minutes, you can produce a visually appealing dish that can impress anyone, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a classy gathering with friends. The vibrant colors and textures make this salad a centerpiece on any table. Another great advantage? Each bite bursts with freshness thanks to the basil and cherry tomatoes—bringing your taste buds to life. Overall, this Steak Caprese Salad offers a unique culinary experience that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Caprese Salad with Mushrooms
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The savory steak, rich mozzarella, and tangy balsamic dressing combine to deliver a superb taste experience.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those on-the-go meals.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad keeps you full without weighing you down.
- Customizable Components: Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities based on your preferences for a personalized touch.
- Beautiful Presentation: This colorful salad is a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for serving at gatherings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, take some time to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by ensuring your countertop is clear and you have ample space to work. Gather a large mixing bowl for combining your salad ingredients and a skillet for cooking the mushrooms. You’ll also need a sharp knife and cutting board for slicing the steak and chopping the lettuce.
Do be sure to select a grill or a skillet that can handle the heat effectively for perfect steak results. It’s recommended to have a meat thermometer if you want to cook the steak to a precise doneness level. Don’t forget about serving plates or a large platter for an appealing presentation.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1 ½ to 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking mushrooms)
- 3 hearts romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- 2 New York strip steaks (12–16 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper, for seasoning steaks
- Balsamic vinegar, for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
In a medium bowl, combine the fresh mozzarella pearls, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced basil. Stir in the minced garlic and extra virgin olive oil, along with the salt and ground black pepper. It’s important to mix these ingredients gently to maintain the structure of the mozzarella pearls. Once everything is combined, allow the mixture to sit at room temperature. This marination step is crucial as it helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste of your salad.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mushrooms turn golden and tender. Remember to season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cooking the mushrooms properly not only adds flavor but also texture to the salad, creating a wonderful contrast to the other ingredients.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
While the mushrooms are cooking, season your New York strip steaks generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. For grilling, preheat your grill to high heat or heat a large skillet on the stove. Cook the steaks for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Once cooked, let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain. This step helps to keep the meat juicy and tender.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
On a large platter or individual plates, start with a bed of the chopped romaine lettuce. Layer the sliced steak and sautéed mushrooms on top of the lettuce, allowing the flavors to swirl together. Spoon the marinated mozzarella and tomato mixture over the entire salad evenly. To finish, drizzle some balsamic vinegar just before serving. This adds a delightful tartness that elevates the dish beautifully. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor experience!
Variations
- Protein: You can substitute the New York strip steak with chicken breast, grilled shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap other vegetables like arugula, spinach, or red onions for added flavor and color.
- Spices: Experiment with different seasoning blends or herbs like oregano or thyme for your steak to explore various flavor dimensions.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking mushrooms; this helps achieve a nice sear and prevents steaming.
- If you prefer, you can also serve this salad with a homemade vinaigrette instead of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
- This salad pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.
- Consider serving an additional side of crusty bread or garlic bread to complement the meal.
Tips
- Securing fresh ingredients enhances the overall flavor of the salad, so always opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella when available.
- Letting the mozzarella and tomato mixture marinate longer, if time permits, allows for an even more pronounced flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mozzarella and tomato mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just remember to add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
What other types of cheese can I use?
In addition to mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese would also work well, adding unique flavor profiles.
Can I grill the steak in advance?
Absolutely! You can grill the steak earlier in the day. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
The Steak Caprese Salad with Mushrooms is a stunning and delicious dish that brings together the best of both worlds: light and satisfying. This salad not only makes the most of fresh ingredients but also offers versatility and flavor that will impress anyone at your table. Try out the recipe for your next dinner or meal prep, and be sure to explore variations to make it your own. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe! Share your experience in the comments below, and feel free to tag us if you try creative spins on this dish!
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Steak Caprese Salad with Mushrooms
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant, hearty dish that beautifully showcases the balance of flavors from fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1 ½ to 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking mushrooms)
- 3 hearts romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- 2 New York strip steaks (12–16 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper, for seasoning steaks
- Balsamic vinegar, for drizzling
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the fresh mozzarella pearls, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced basil. Stir in the minced garlic and extra virgin olive oil, along with the salt and ground black pepper. It’s important to mix these ingredients gently to maintain the structure of the mozzarella pearls. Once everything is combined, allow the mixture to sit at room temperature.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mushrooms turn golden and tender. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- While the mushrooms are cooking, season your New York strip steaks generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Preheat your grill to high heat or heat a large skillet on the stove. Cook the steaks for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain.
- On a large platter or individual plates, start with a bed of the chopped romaine lettuce. Layer the sliced steak and sautéed mushrooms on top of the lettuce. Spoon the marinated mozzarella and tomato mixture over the entire salad evenly. Drizzle some balsamic vinegar just before serving. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking mushrooms to achieve a nice sear and prevent steaming.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 35 g