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Southwest Steak Salad with Chipotle Dressing

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salads
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Steak:
  • 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin steak
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • For the Salad:
  • 6 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or canned)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • For the Chipotle Dressing:
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Water to thin, if needed

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Marinate the Steak : In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Rub the mixture all over the steak and let it marinate for at least 15–30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
  • Step 2: Cook the Steak : Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust for your desired doneness). Transfer to a cutting board and rest for 5–10 minutes to retain juices. Slice thinly against the grain.
  • Step 3: Make the Chipotle Dressing : In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, mayo, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if a thinner consistency is desired. Taste and adjust seasoning (more lime for tang, more honey for sweetness, or more chipotle for heat).
  • Step 4: Prepare the Salad : In a large salad bowl or serving platter, arrange chopped lettuce as the base. Top with black beans, corn, bell pepper, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cheese. Place the sliced steak over the top.
  • Step 5: Dress and Serve : Drizzle generously with chipotle dressing just before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges. Toss lightly or serve with dressing on the side for individual drizzling.