Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries
A Perfectly Balanced, Flavor-Packed Meal
This Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries brings together the hearty satisfaction of a juicy steak, the brightness of a fresh salad, and the comforting crispness of oven-baked fries. It’s a well-rounded dinner option that’s both impressive and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for basting)
For the Tomato and Onion Salad
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the French Fries
- 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Ketchup or aioli, for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
- Pat the steaks dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary or thyme.
- Rub both sides with olive oil and minced garlic.
- Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to enhance flavor.
2. Grill the Steak
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the steaks for 4–6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
- Optional: During the last minute of grilling, add a pat of butter to each steak for added richness.
- Remove from the grill and let the steaks rest for 5–10 minutes to retain juices.
3. Make the Salad
- Arrange sliced tomatoes and onions on a serving plate.
- Whisk olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Drizzle over the salad and gently toss. Garnish with chopped herbs.
4. Bake the Fries
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Tips for Success
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for best results—130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Crispy Fries Tip: Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch and ensure crispiness.
- Flavor Boosters: Customize your fries with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish strikes a perfect balance of flavor and texture: tender, juicy steak, a bright and tangy salad, and golden, crispy fries. It’s a comforting and satisfying dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a refreshing side of steamed or roasted vegetables, or a light green salad. For a hearty and complete plate, this recipe needs nothing more.