
This steak salad is all about contrasts. Juicy seared meat, sweet roasted squash, crisp greens, and creamy feta come together for a dish that feels both hearty and fresh. It is one of those meals that makes dinner feel just a bit more special without any fuss.
I love this for weeknights when I want something vibrant but still comforting. It is always a hit when friends drop by unexpectedly.
Ingredients
- Steak: trimmed of visible fat lean cuts like sirloin or flank are ideal for tenderness and flavor
- Dried rosemary: aromatic and woodsy perfect for rich meats
- Sea salt and black pepper: essential seasoning that enhances all components
- Garlic powder: gives deep flavor quickly without chopping
- Olive oil spray: helps roast or sear without excess fat
- Feta cheese: adds creamy tangy contrast to warm vegetables and greens
- Baby greens: fresh mix keeps the dish light and lively
- Butternut squash: roasts into sweet caramelized chunks that anchor the salad
- Paprika: brings mild heat and smoky flavor to the squash
- Cherry tomatoes: add juicy brightness and color
- Red onion: offers sharp crunch and depth
- Balsamic vinegar: gives acidity and a slight sweetness to balance the fats
- Olive oil: binds the dressing with richness
- Parsley: adds grassy freshness
- Oregano: gives a Mediterranean warmth that pairs well with steak
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast the Butternut Squash:
- Preheat oven to 200℃ or 400℉. Toss squash cubes with paprika sea salt and a light mist of olive oil spray. Spread on a lined baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and tender
- Season the Steak:
- While squash cooks season steak generously on both sides with dried rosemary garlic powder salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes
- Prepare Tomato Onion Mix:
- In a small bowl combine halved cherry tomatoes thinly sliced red onion balsamic vinegar olive oil parsley oregano salt and pepper. Stir gently and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes
- Cook the Steak:
- Heat a skillet or grill pan until very hot. Add steak and cook depending on desired doneness about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium rare. Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 to 10 minutes
- Slice and Assemble:
- Slice steak thinly across the grain. Arrange baby greens in serving bowls. Top with roasted squash tomato onion mix feta and sliced steak
- Dress and Serve:
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar olive oil parsley and oregano. Drizzle over salad just before serving

Storage Tips
Keep components separate if prepping ahead. Store cooked steak and squash in airtight containers and assemble fresh to avoid soggy greens. The tomato onion mix holds well for two days refrigerated
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use goat cheese or parmesan in place of feta. Sweet potato works great instead of squash. Try rocket or spinach if you are out of baby greens
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a hunk of crusty bread or alongside couscous for a more filling meal. The salad also pairs nicely with a glass of dry red wine like cabernet or shiraz

Cultural Context
This recipe is a modern take on Mediterranean inspired steak salads often seen in warm weather countries where meals are centered around fresh vegetables and grilled meat
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can cook the steak and roast the butternut squash ahead of time. Keep components separate until serving to maintain freshness.
- → What is the best cut of steak to use?
Sirloin, flank, or similar lean cuts work well. Trim excess fat and slice against the grain after cooking for maximum tenderness.
- → Can I substitute butternut squash?
Absolutely. Sweet potato or regular white potatoes are excellent alternatives that also roast beautifully.
- → How do I make the balsamic tomato onion mix?
Combine halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it sit to marinate.
- → What dressing works best for this salad?
A simple mix of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, parsley, and oregano complements the ingredients perfectly with tangy and earthy notes.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Yes. Try goat cheese, Parmesan shavings, or blue cheese, adjusting the amount based on flavour intensity.