Grilled Steak Salad Tzatziki

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce blends bold, savory flavors with fresh summer textures. Marinated sirloin is grilled to juicy perfection, sliced thin, and served over crisp romaine and cherry tomatoes. A cool drizzle of tangy homemade tzatziki ties everything together for a refreshing and balanced plate. Whether you're looking for a lighter dinner or a dish that makes the most of grilling season, this salad delivers big flavor without feeling heavy.

A woman in a pink apron is smiling.
Published By Dina
Updated on Wed, 30 Jul 2025 19:45:20 GMT
A bowl of grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce. Bookmark
A bowl of grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce. | ioanacooks.com

This grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce is my go to meal when I crave something light refreshing and still full of satisfying flavor. Tender steak gets a quick marinade then hits the grill for smoky richness while the cool creamy tzatziki ties everything together. Perfect for warm days or when I want to feel like I am eating something indulgent without overdoing it.

I whipped this up one hot Saturday when I wanted to grill but also needed something fresh. My whole family devoured it and we agreed it was going on our regular rotation.

Ingredients

  • Sirloin steak: provides rich beefy flavor and cooks quickly on the grill
  • Cherry tomatoes: offer sweet pops of acidity that complement the meat
  • Romaine lettuce: gives crunch and a refreshing base for the salad
  • Dijon mustard: in the marinade gives tang and depth to the steak
  • Minced garlic: brings aromatic heat and enhances the marinade
  • Dried Italian seasoning: layers herbaceous notes throughout the dish
  • Kosher salt and pepper: balance and highlight all other flavors
  • Red wine vinegar: tenderizes the steak and adds bright acidity
  • Extra virgin olive oil: helps emulsify the marinade and adds richness
  • Homemade tzatziki: adds creaminess coolness and a Mediterranean vibe

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl combine Dijon mustard garlic Italian seasoning salt pepper and red wine vinegar. Slowly whisk in the olive oil to create an emulsified mixture. This ensures the flavors stick to the steak and tenderize it properly.
Marinate the Steak:
Place the steak in the marinade and turn it to coat thoroughly. Let it sit for fifteen minutes at room temperature so the meat begins to absorb the flavors quickly and evenly.
Preheat the Grill:
Heat an outdoor grill to medium high and brush the grates with a little oil to prevent sticking. The goal is a hot surface that will quickly sear the steak.
Grill the Steak:
Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry for better searing. Grill for four minutes per side for medium rare or until the internal temperature reaches one hundred thirty five degrees Fahrenheit. Let the steak rest for five minutes after grilling so the juices can redistribute and keep it moist.
Assemble the Salad:
Chop the romaine and halve the cherry tomatoes then divide them among plates. Slice the rested steak thinly across the grain and place on top of the greens. Spoon over any resting juices for extra flavor.
Add the Tzatziki:
Dollop or drizzle the homemade tzatziki over the steak. Its creamy tanginess is the perfect contrast to the grilled meat. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite.
Grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce. Bookmark
Grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Keep leftover steak tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. The tzatziki will stay fresh in a sealed container for about two days. Store salad components separately to prevent sogginess and assemble just before eating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use flank or skirt steak instead of sirloin but make sure to slice it thinly across the grain. For the greens try mixed baby lettuces or arugula for a peppery bite. Greek yogurt in the tzatziki can be swapped for regular yogurt if you prefer a thinner sauce.

Cultural and Historical Context

A grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce. Bookmark
A grilled steak salad with tzatziki sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Tzatziki is a traditional Greek sauce made with yogurt cucumber and garlic. It is often served alongside grilled meats which inspired this recipe. Combining it with a classic grilled steak salad brings together Mediterranean and American flavors in a satisfying fusion.

I love how the marinade transforms a basic steak into something so flavorful and tender. Every time I make this salad I remember a spontaneous summer dinner where we ended up eating outside under the stars with music playing. It felt like a little vacation on a plate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute another cut of steak?

Yes, flank or skirt steak work well. Just adjust grilling time to your preferred doneness and slice thinly across the grain.

→ How long should I marinate the steak?

Fifteen minutes is enough for flavor, but for deeper infusion, marinate up to 2 hours in the fridge.

→ Can I make the tzatziki ahead?

Absolutely. It can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge for best flavor.

→ What other veggies can I add?

Cucumber slices, red onion, or olives pair nicely and add crunch and Mediterranean flair.

→ Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes. Store components separately and assemble just before eating to maintain texture and freshness.

Grilled Steak Salad Tzatziki

Tender steak over salad with tzatziki, perfect for warm-weather dining and light, flavorful meals.

Time Needed to Prep
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
8 minutes
Overall Time
28 minutes
Published By: Dina

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Mediterranean

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (1 large salad platter)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb Friendly, No Gluten

Ingredients You'll Need

→ For the Salad

Ingredient 01 1 pound sirloin steak
Ingredient 02 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Ingredient 03 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped (about 6 cups)

→ For the Marinade

Ingredient 04 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Ingredient 05 2 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient 06 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Ingredient 07 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Ingredient 08 Pinch of black pepper
Ingredient 09 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
Ingredient 10 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

→ Sauce

Ingredient 11 Tzatziki sauce, for serving

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar. Slowly stream in olive oil while whisking to emulsify.

Step 03

Add the steak to the marinade, toss to coat thoroughly, and let marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Step 04

Lightly oil grill grates. Remove steak from marinade and pat dry. Grill for 4 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.

Step 05

Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly across the grain.

Step 06

Divide chopped lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes among serving plates. Drizzle with any juices from the cutting board, top with sliced steak, and finish with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Extra Tips

  1. Letting the steak rest before slicing helps retain its juices and enhances flavor.
  2. Emulsifying the marinade ensures even flavor distribution and better coating.

Tools You'll Need

  • Outdoor grill
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Dairy (from tzatziki sauce)
  • Mustard

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 282
  • Total Fat: 16 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 7 grams
  • Protein Amount: 27 grams