Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries: A Classic Comfort Meal
There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of a perfectly grilled steak, paired with a vibrant, fresh salad and a pile of crispy, golden French fries. This Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries recipe brings together all the elements of a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that you can easily recreate at home. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue, treating your family to a hearty dinner, or simply craving a classic steakhouse experience, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort. Let’s dive into crafting a meal that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Steak Dinner
This recipe combines timeless flavors and simple techniques to create a meal that’s both indulgent and approachable. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Juicy, Flavorful Steak: A simple marinade of garlic, herbs, and olive oil ensures a tender, perfectly seasoned steak.
- Fresh and Bright Salad: The tomato and onion salad adds a burst of color and freshness to balance the richness of the steak.
- Crispy Homemade Fries: Golden, oven-baked fries are a healthier take on the classic side, without sacrificing crunch.
- Versatile and Customizable: Adjust the seasoning, doneness of the steak, or salad ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Grilled Steak, Salad, and Fries
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty meal. The ingredients are straightforward, but the combination is pure magic.
For the Grilled Steak:
- Ribeye or Sirloin Steaks (2, about 8–10 oz each): Choose well-marbled cuts for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps the seasoning stick and promotes a good sear.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a savory, aromatic depth to the steak.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (1 tsp, chopped): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor; use dried if fresh isn’t available.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the steak.
- Unsalted Butter (1 tbsp, optional): For basting during cooking, adding richness.
For the Tomato and Onion Salad:
- Ripe Tomatoes (2 large, sliced): Choose firm, juicy tomatoes like Roma or heirloom for the best flavor.
- Red Onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Adds a mild bite and crunch.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): A light drizzle brings the salad together.
- Red Wine Vinegar (1 tbsp): Provides a tangy contrast to the tomatoes.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
For the French Fries:
- Russet Potatoes (4 large, cut into fries): Russets are ideal for crispy fries due to their high starch content.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps the fries crisp up in the oven.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Basic seasoning for the fries.
- Paprika (½ tsp, optional): Adds a smoky flavor and golden color.
- Ketchup or Aioli (for serving): Classic dips to complete the fries.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Steak Dinner
This recipe is broken into three components—steak, salad, and fries—but they come together seamlessly for a cohesive meal. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the French Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into ¼-inch thick fries. Soak the fries in cold water for 15–30 minutes to remove excess starch—this ensures crispiness. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel. Toss the fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Keep warm while you prepare the steak and salad.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary (or thyme), salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the steaks. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavors and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Tomato and Onion Salad
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley and set aside to let the flavors meld while you cook the steak.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Heat a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using a skillet, add a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Place the steaks on the hot surface and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F/57°C internal temperature), or adjust to your preferred doneness. If using butter, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking and baste the steaks by spooning the melted butter over them. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the steaks against the grain into ½-inch strips, or serve them whole if preferred. Arrange the steak on plates alongside a portion of the tomato and onion salad and a pile of crispy French fries. Garnish the steak with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve the fries with ketchup or aioli on the side.
Tips for the Best Grilled Steak Dinner
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for precision—135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well. Add 1–2 minutes per side for thicker cuts.
- Crispy Fries: Soaking the potatoes removes starch, which prevents them from sticking together and helps them crisp up. Don’t skip drying them thoroughly before baking.
- Salad Variations: Add cucumber, feta cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice to the salad for extra freshness.
- Grill Alternatives: No grill? Use a stovetop skillet or broil the steaks in the oven for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Make Ahead: Prep the fries and salad up to a day in advance. Store the fries unbaked and the salad undressed in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Rest the Steak: Letting the steak rest after cooking redistributes the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This steak dinner is a complete meal, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience:
- Beverages: Pair with a non-alcoholic drink like sparkling water with lime, iced tea, or a virgin mojito to refresh the palate.
- Sides: Add a creamy element like garlic butter mushrooms or a dollop of mashed potatoes for extra indulgence.
- Dessert: Finish the meal with the Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies from your previous recipe for a sweet, comforting end.
- Special Occasions: Serve this meal for date nights, barbecues, or Father’s Day celebrations—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Nutritional Information and Serving Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 2–4 (depending on portion size)
- Calories: Approximately 600–700 per serving (varies based on steak size and fry portion)
This meal is high in protein and iron from the steak, with the salad providing vitamins A and C, and the fries offering carbs for energy.
Storing and Reheating Your Steak Dinner
- Refrigerator: Store leftover steak, salad, and fries separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side, and the fries in a 375°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 1 day.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked steak and fries for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as above. The salad does not freeze well.
- Pro Tip: If reheating steak, let it come to room temperature for 10 minutes to ensure even heating.
Complementary Meal Plan with Previous Recipes
This steak dinner pairs beautifully with your previous recipes to create a full, comforting meal plan:
- Appetizer: Start with the Tomato Basil Garlic Bread for a cheesy, herbaceous starter that sets the tone for a hearty meal.
- Main Course: Serve this Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries as the centerpiece, offering a balance of protein, freshness, and carbs.
- Side Dish: Add a bowl of your Hearty Beef Stew as an optional second main or side for larger gatherings, with the garlic bread to dip.
- Dessert: Finish with the Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies for a sweet, indulgent treat that ties the meal together.
This menu is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, offering a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy everyone.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries is the ultimate comfort meal, bringing together the best of savory, fresh, and crispy in one plate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable yet impressive, making it a go-to for any occasion. Try it out, share it with your loved ones, and let us know in the comments how you made it your own!
For more delicious recipes and meal ideas, explore our collection on 25insurance.com. Happy cooking!
