If you are craving a meal that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures, this Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries Recipe is your perfect answer. Tender, juicy steak grilled to perfection pairs beautifully with a vibrant tomato salad that offers a refreshing zing, while crispy French fries bring that ultimate satisfying crunch. This dish brings together classic elements you love, creating a nostalgic yet fresh experience that will have you coming back for seconds every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for building layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component complements the others to create a balanced and indulgent meal that feels both fresh and satisfying.
- Ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick): Choose quality cuts for juicy, tender results and rich beef flavor.
- Olive oil: Helps the steak seal in moisture and adds a subtle fruity note.
- Salt: A key seasoning that enhances every bite of the steak and fries.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth, essential for the steak’s seasoning mix.
- Garlic powder: Brings a warm aromatic undertone to the grilled steak.
- Large ripe tomatoes: Use fresh, juicy tomatoes to keep the salad bursting with sweetness.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced to provide a sharp, pungent contrast in the salad.
- Fresh basil: Chopped for a fragrant herbal lift that brightens the tomato salad.
- Balsamic vinegar: Gives the salad a sweet-tart complexity that balances the richness of the steak.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Used in the salad dressing for a silky texture and fruity depth.
- Russet potatoes: Perfect for making golden, crispy French fries.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Necessary to achieve the ideal crunch on the fries.
How to Make Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries Recipe
Step 1: Preparing and Seasoning the Steak
First, allow your steaks to rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes; this ensures even cooking. Meanwhile, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Rub each steak with a tablespoon of olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning blend allows the natural flavors of the beef to shine through beautifully after grilling.
Step 2: Grilling the Steak
Place the steaks on the hot grill and cook them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare. Adjust the time depending on how you prefer your steak cooked. Once grilled, remove the steaks and let them rest for at least 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, giving you a tender, juicy bite every time.
Step 3: Making the Tomato Salad
While the steak rests, whip up the fresh tomato salad by gently combining the sliced ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped basil in a bowl. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the ingredients lightly to keep the tomatoes whole and juicy, adding a zesty freshness that perfectly contrasts the steak.
Step 4: Cooking the French Fries
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Peel and cut russet potatoes into classic fry shapes and fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for 4 to 5 minutes until they become golden brown and crisp. Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt immediately while they’re still hot for that irresistible flavor.
How to Serve Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese over the fries elevates the dish with bursts of flavor and added visual appeal. Fresh basil leaves on top of the tomato salad also enhance the aroma and presentation, making the meal look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
If you want to add an extra layer to this feast, consider light sides such as a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. These sides complement the robust flavors of the steak and balance the richness of the fries without overshadowing the star components.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the steak sliced thinly across a wooden board alongside separate bowls of the vibrant tomato salad and perfectly golden fries. This casual yet elegant presentation invites everyone to dig in and share the love of this Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries Recipe, making it perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tomato salad separate to prevent sogginess, preferably in a shallow container to maintain freshness.
Freezing
While the grilled steak freezes well, the tomato salad and French fries do not maintain their texture after freezing. It’s best to freeze only the steak if necessary, wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat steak gently on medium heat in a skillet or oven to retain moisture and avoid overcooking. For fries, warming in an oven or air fryer is best to restore their crispiness, while the tomato salad is best enjoyed fresh, added right before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin work wonderfully due to their tenderness and flavor, you can also use New York strip, filet mignon, or even flank steak if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a healthier alternative to frying the French fries?
Yes! You can bake the fries in the oven or use an air fryer for a lighter version that still yields a satisfyingly crispy texture without all the oil.
Can I prepare the tomato salad in advance?
You can, but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh and prevent them from becoming mushy. Prep the ingredients separately and combine them with the dressing right before plating.
What’s the best way to check the steak’s doneness?
Using an instant-read thermometer ensures accuracy—120°F to 130°F for rare, 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare, and 140°F to 145°F for medium. Alternatively, learn to feel the steak’s firmness with your fingers for a hands-on approach!
Can I substitute sweet potatoes for regular fries?
Definitely! Sweet potato fries offer a sweeter flavor and extra nutrients, making a tasty and colorful twist on the classic French fries in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries Recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated through thoughtful preparation to create a dish packed with flavor and satisfaction. Give it a try for your next meal—you’ll love the way the juicy steak, fresh salad, and crisp fries come together effortlessly to make every bite memorable.
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Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a classic American dinner with this grilled steak served alongside a fresh tomato salad and crispy French fries. The ribeye or sirloin steaks are seasoned simply and grilled to perfection, while the tomato salad adds a vibrant, tangy contrast. Homemade French fries are fried until golden and crisp, making this meal a satisfying and flavorful option perfect for any casual summer evening.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Tomato Salad
- 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced)
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
French Fries
- 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cut into fries)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to season fries
Instructions
- Prepare Steaks: Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to ensure even cooking. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season Steaks: Rub each steak with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Grill Steaks: Place steaks on the hot grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness, or adjust time to your preferred level. Use a meat thermometer if needed.
- Rest Steaks: Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.
- Make Tomato Salad: In a bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped basil. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine and set aside.
- Fry French Fries: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato sticks in batches for 4–5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and immediately sprinkle with salt.
- Serve: Plate the grilled steak alongside the fresh tomato salad and hot French fries. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Sweet potatoes can be used instead of russet potatoes for a different taste and slightly sweeter fries.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley over the fries while still hot.
- Heirloom tomatoes make the salad more colorful and add unique flavors.
