Let me tell you, my friends, this Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad is an absolute game changer! Picture this: hearty pasta tossed with juicy, grilled steak and creamy blue cheese, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite! I stumbled upon this recipe during a summer BBQ, and it instantly became my go-to dish for potlucks and picnics. The combination of textures and flavors just sings together, making it perfect for lunch or as a light dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up; you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz pasta (your choice, I love using penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb steak, grilled and sliced (go for ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor)
- 1 cup blue cheese, crumbled (the creamier, the better!)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for that juicy pop)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (adds a nice crunch and zing)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin is my favorite for depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (this balances everything beautifully)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
How to Prepare Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then toss in your pasta of choice. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it firm but not crunchy! Once it’s done, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps cool it down, so it won’t wilt the other ingredients when we mix everything together. Set it aside while we work on the steak.
Preparing the Steak
Now, let’s fire up the grill! Season your steak generously with salt and pepper (or your favorite steak rub). Grill it over medium-high heat for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your desired doneness. I personally love it medium-rare, so I pull it off when it’s about 130°F (54°C). Remember, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing—this keeps all those delicious juices inside! Once rested, slice it against the grain into nice, bite-sized pieces.
Combining the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced steak, crumbled blue cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. This is where the magic begins! Gently toss everything together until it’s evenly mixed. I love to see all those vibrant colors come together—it’s so inviting!
Adding the Dressing
For the dressing, grab a small bowl and whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once it’s well mixed, pour it over the pasta salad. Now, give it another gentle toss to ensure every bite is coated in that tangy goodness. You can serve this beauty cold or at room temperature. Either way, it’s going to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty ingredients make it filling and satisfying.
- Flavor-packed with the rich taste of steak and tangy blue cheese.
- Perfect for meal prepping or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to customize this dish with your favorite veggies. Roasted bell peppers, spinach, or even avocado can add a delightful twist! If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, grilled chicken can be a fantastic substitute for the steak.
For storage, this salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, pop it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just be aware that the pasta might absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to drizzle a little extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving again. Trust me, it’ll still taste delicious! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk nutrition! This Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad packs a satisfying punch and is estimated to have the following nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose and portion sizes. But one thing’s for sure—this salad is a hearty, protein-packed option that won’t leave you feeling hungry!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! If you’re in the mood for a lighter option, grilled chicken makes a fantastic substitute for steak in this Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad. Just season and grill the chicken breasts the same way you would the steak, and slice them into bite-sized pieces. It’s just as delicious and perfect for those who prefer poultry over beef!
How long can I store the salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the pasta might soak up some of the dressing during storage. A little drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving it again can bring that flavor back to life!
What can I add for extra flavor?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! To amp up the flavor of your Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of freshness. You could also sprinkle in some toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch, or toss in roasted red peppers for a sweet touch. For a spicy kick, a few slices of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can do wonders. Get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad makes a fabulous main dish, but it also pairs beautifully with a few sides for a well-rounded meal! Consider serving it alongside some crusty garlic bread or a light, refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the blue cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can add a lovely peppery note. And don’t forget a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer to wash it all down—perfect for those warm evenings on the patio! Enjoy every delicious bite!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Steak Pasta.
Print
Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad: 5 Flavors You’ll Love
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty pasta salad featuring steak and blue cheese, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb steak, grilled and sliced
- 1 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- Grill the steak to your preferred doneness. Let it rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced steak, blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite veggies.
- Can substitute grilled chicken for steak.
- Best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta Salad
