Grilled Corn Steak Salad

Category: Fresh and Vibrant Salad Recipes

This grilled corn balsamic steak Gorgonzola salad is a vibrant, hearty dish featuring tender grilled steak, smoky sweet corn, and rich Gorgonzola crumbles over fresh greens. A zesty homemade balsamic dressing ties everything together, making this salad perfect for an elevated lunch or light summer dinner. With juicy tomatoes, red onion, and the option for avocado or roasted veggies, every bite bursts with texture and flavor.

A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Created By Sarah
Last updated on Sat, 14 Jun 2025 11:32:17 GMT
A plate of food with meat, corn, tomatoes, and blueberries. Save
A plate of food with meat, corn, tomatoes, and blueberries. | sarahmeal.com

This vibrant salad brings together juicy grilled steak, sweet smoky corn, bold balsamic dressing, and creamy Gorgonzola cheese for a lively and satisfying meal. It is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner that balances savory and fresh flavors.

I first tried this on a summer evening with friends and loved how the grilled corn added a sweet crunch that paired beautifully with the tangy dressing and rich cheese

Ingredients

  • Fresh ears of corn: bring a smoky sweetness when grilled choose ears with bright green husks and plump kernels
  • Strip or sirloin steak: provides hearty flavor and juicy texture pick a well-marbled cut for tenderness
  • Mixed greens: such as spinach and arugula add a peppery fresh base buy vibrant crisp leaves without wilting
  • Gorgonzola cheese: contributes creamy tang and depth select a creamy variety for easier crumbling
  • Cherry tomatoes: bring bursts of juicy acidity that balance the richness
  • Red onion: offers a sharp bite and crunch look for firm bulbs with deep color
  • Balsamic vinegar: provides a sweet and tangy dressing backbone use a good quality aged vinegar if possible
  • Olive oil: smooths and binds the dressing ingredients extra virgin adds the best flavor
  • Fresh garlic: adds a punch of aromatic heat crush to release maximum flavor
  • Lemon juice: brightens and lifts the dressing
  • Salt and pepper: to enhance all the flavors
  • Optional: avocado adds buttery creaminess crunchy croutons introduce texture contrast and roasted veggies offer a warm element

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bring Steak to Room Temperature:
Allow the steak to sit out for about 20 minutes to ensure even cooking and better searing
Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan and brush with oil to prevent sticking and promote those classic char marks
Grill the Corn:
Place the ears of corn on the grill and rotate frequently until the kernels are nicely charred and tender which brings out their natural sweetness
Grill the Steak:
Season the steak generously with salt and pepper then grill it alongside the corn until it reaches your preferred level of doneness Let it rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute
Prepare the Dressing:
Whisk together olive oil balsamic vinegar crushed garlic lemon juice salt and pepper until well combined and emulsified for a balanced flavorful dressing
Assemble the Salad:
Cut the corn kernels off the cob slice the steak thinly and toss together with the mixed greens cherry tomatoes sliced red onion and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly and serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm steak and cool greens
A plate of food with meat and vegetables. Save
A plate of food with meat and vegetables. | sarahmeal.com

I always look forward to the first time grilling fresh corn each summer as it brings back fond memories of family barbecues and warm evenings outside

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days but it is best enjoyed fresh as the greens wilt and the dressing can make the salad soggy Keep steak and dressing separate if possible and add just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If Gorgonzola is not available you can swap for blue cheese or feta for a similar tangy creaminess For a dairy-free version omit the cheese and add toasted nuts for texture Use chicken breast or portobello mushrooms as alternatives to steak for different protein options

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad with crusty gluten-free bread or a light soup for a complete meal It also pairs well with a chilled white wine or a light red like Pinot Noir to complement the bold flavors

Cultural Context

Grilled steak salads with bold cheeses and vinaigrettes are popular in American cuisine for combining robust protein with fresh seasonal produce The use of balsamic vinegar draws inspiration from Italian dressing traditions adding a touch of Mediterranean flair

A bowl of salad with meat and vegetables. Save
A bowl of salad with meat and vegetables. | sarahmeal.com

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, sirloin, strip, or even flank steak work well. Just cook to your preferred doneness.

→ How should I grill the corn?

Grill over high heat until lightly charred, turning occasionally for even cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for Gorgonzola cheese?

You can use blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese for a different but still bold flavor.

→ Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prep components in advance, but assemble and dress just before serving to maintain freshness.

→ What dressing pairs best with this salad?

The homemade balsamic-garlic-lemon vinaigrette enhances both the steak and cheese flavors beautifully.

Grilled Corn Steak Salad

Bold salad with steak, grilled corn, and Gorgonzola in balsamic dressing.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Duration
35 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Salads

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Cuisine Style: American

Servings Yield: 4 Portion Size (4 servings)

Diet Preferences: Gluten-Free Option

What You'll Need

→ Salad Base

Ingredient 01 2 fresh ears of corn
Ingredient 02 1 strip or sirloin steak
Ingredient 03 4 cups mixed greens such as spinach or arugula
Ingredient 04 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
Ingredient 05 1 red onion, thinly sliced
Ingredient 06 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
Ingredient 07 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
Ingredient 08 1/2 cup crunchy croutons (optional)
Ingredient 09 1/2 cup roasted vegetables (optional)

→ Dressing

Ingredient 10 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Ingredient 11 3 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredient 12 2 cloves garlic, crushed
Ingredient 13 Juice of 1 lemon
Ingredient 14 Salt to taste
Ingredient 15 Black pepper to taste

How to Make It

Instruction 01

Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking.

Instruction 02

Heat the grill or grill pan and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Instruction 03

Place ears of corn on the grill and cook, rotating until lightly charred on all sides.

Instruction 04

Season the steak with salt and pepper, then grill to your preferred doneness. Rest before slicing.

Instruction 05

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, crushed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Instruction 06

Cut corn off the cob and slice steak thinly. Combine greens, tomatoes, onion, Gorgonzola, corn, and steak.

Instruction 07

Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve immediately.

Additional Tips

  1. Using fresh corn on the cob enhances natural sweetness and char flavor when grilled.
  2. Letting the steak rest before slicing helps retain its juices and tenderness.

Essential Tools

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy from Gorgonzola cheese

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat Content: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 30 grams
  • Protein Content: 28 grams