Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

Recipe By:
Natalia
Updated:

This Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto} is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and savory flavors. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad combines juicy steak, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado with a zesty dressing. Whether you’re following Whole30, keto, or simply seeking a healthy meal option, this dish is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and textures make it appealing for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Packed: With juicy steak and creamy avocado dressing, every bite bursts with flavor.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it fits well into various meal plans including Whole30 and keto.
  • Nutrient Dense: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad keeps you full without the carbs.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the components ahead of time for a quick assembly during the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious steak cobb salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or grill
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Blender

Importance of Each Tool

  • Cast iron skillet or grill: Provides even heat for perfectly cooked steak with great sear.
  • Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts through the steak and vegetables for an appealing presentation.
  • Cutting board: Offers a safe space to chop and prepare your ingredients efficiently.
  • Blender: Mixes the avocado dressing until smooth, enhancing the overall texture of your salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1.25 lbs flank steak (or strip steak)
  • Sea salt and cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon avocado (or olive oil)
  • 8 slices nitrate free Turkey Bacon (sugar free for Whole30 if needed)
  • 4 large eggs (hardboiled and peeled)
  • 8 cups romaine lettuce (roughly chopped, or preferred greens)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
  • 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 large avocado (thinly sliced)

For the Dressing

  • 1 medium ripe avocado
  • 1/3 cup kite hill almond milk Greek yogurt (or Kite hill sour cream)
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons plain almond milk (or water)
  • 1/3 cup cilantro leaves
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or more, to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Have your Turkey Bacon cooked and crumbled along with hardboiled eggs cooled first. See notes for methods.

Step 2: Season the Steak

Season the steak liberally on both sides with sea salt and cracked black pepper. Heat your cast iron skillet or grill to medium-high/high heat. Drizzle oil in the skillet or brush the grill with oil.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Once hot, add the steak. Cook about 3 minutes on each side for medium rare or about 4 minutes for medium. The cook time will depend on thickness; use a meat thermometer if available.

Step 4: Rest the Steak

Remove the steak from heat and place it on a cutting board. Cover with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes while arranging your salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, layer your greens with sliced cherry tomatoes, onions, hardboiled eggs, and crumbled Turkey Bacon. Slice the avocado thinly and arrange around the salad. Optionally add blue cheese crumbles if desired.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

With a sharp knife, slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Arrange it on top of your salad. Blend dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve dressing on the side or drizzled over your salad immediately for maximum freshness! Enjoy your healthy Steak Cobb Salad!

How to Serve Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

Serving your Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present this healthy dish that will impress your guests and family.

Individual Bowls

  • Create personalized servings in individual bowls. This allows each person to customize their salad with their preferred dressing amount.

Family Style

  • Serve the salad components on a large platter. Let everyone build their own salad, encouraging interaction and fun at the table.

Wrap It Up

  • Use large lettuce leaves as wraps. This makes for a low-carb alternative that’s easy to hold and eat, perfect for casual dining.

Add Extra Crunch

  • Offer toppings like crispy roasted chickpeas or nuts on the side. These add texture and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

How to Perfect Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

Perfecting your Steak Cobb Salad involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are ways to ensure you create a delicious and visually appealing dish.

  • Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, organic produce when possible. The quality of your ingredients directly affects the flavor of your salad.
  • Cook Steak to Perfection: Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness. Aim for medium-rare (130°F-135°F) for juicy results that won’t dry out.
  • Cool Ingredients: After cooking, let the steak rest before slicing. This helps retain juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
  • Dress Wisely: Prepare the creamy avocado dressing just before serving. This keeps it fresh and vibrant without browning from oxidation.

Best Side Dishes for Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

Pairing side dishes with your Steak Cobb Salad enhances the meal’s variety and flavor. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

  1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these sprouts add a savory crunch that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
  2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed noodles serve as a refreshing, low-carb option that absorbs the creamy dressing beautifully.
  3. Grilled Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, grilled asparagus brings a smoky flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
  4. Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or cauliflower rice mixed with spices for a satisfying side that’s both colorful and nutritious.
  5. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Fluffy cauliflower rice mixed with herbs provides a low-carb alternative that’s light yet filling alongside the salad.
  6. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, comforting side that’s dairy-free but still rich in flavor; it meshes wonderfully with steak dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

  • Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the steak well can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper for a delicious taste.
  • Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—130°F-135°F for medium rare is ideal.
  • Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into the steak right away can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Slicing vegetables unevenly: Cutting veggies in different sizes can affect the salad’s presentation and eating experience. Aim for uniform slices for a more appealing look.
  • Ignoring dressing balance: A heavy dressing can overpower the salad. Blend your creamy avocado dressing until smooth and adjust lime juice for acidity as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep the dressing separate from the salad to maintain freshness.

Freezing Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

  • This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh ingredients.
  • If you must freeze, consider only freezing cooked steak separately.

Reheating Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat the steak wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking often to avoid overcooking.
  • Stovetop: Sauté on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components like cooked steak and hardboiled eggs in advance. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

What are some variations of the Steak Cobb Salad?

Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like grilled chicken, bacon alternatives, or other vegetables based on personal preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is perfect for meal prep. Just store components separately until ready to eat.

How do I make this dish Whole30 compliant?

Ensure all ingredients are Whole30 approved, including using sugar-free turkey bacon and omitting blue cheese crumbles.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can swap flank steak with another protein, such as chicken or shrimp, or use different greens based on what you have available.

Final Thoughts

This Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures while being versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences. Whether you’re following Whole30 or keto, this recipe is not only healthy but also customizable. Try experimenting with your favorite ingredients; you might just discover a new twist that makes it even more delicious!

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Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing {Whole30, Keto}

This Steak Cobb Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. Bursting with flavor from juicy flank steak, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, it’s a delightful blend of textures and colors that will impress at lunch or dinner. Whether you’re adhering to Whole30, keto, or simply looking for a healthy dish, this salad checks all the boxes. With its quick preparation time of under 45 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Enjoy it as a main course or as a side, and savor the freshness of each bite!

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.25 lbs flank steak
  • 8 slices Turkey Bacon
  • 8 cups romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 large avocados
  • 1/3 cup cilantro leaves
  • 1/3 cup Kite Hill almond milk Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Cook turkey bacon until crispy and crumble it. Hardboil the eggs and let them cool.
  2. Season the flank steak with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat, add oil, then cook the steak for about 3 minutes per side for medium rare.
  4. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  5. In a large bowl, layer chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, onions, hardboiled eggs, crumbled turkey bacon, and sliced avocado.
  6. Blend dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth; serve drizzled over salad.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 640
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 50g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 36g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 370mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider including crispy roasted chickpeas or nuts as toppings. Feel free to substitute flank steak with grilled chicken or shrimp based on preference. Prepare individual servings in bowls for customization options.

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