Surf and Turf Salad Twist

Name: Surf and Turf Salad Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 12 oz steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into strips; 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love experimenting with flavors and textures, and this Surf and Turf Salad Twist is a delicious result of that culinary adventure. Each bite combines the richness of tender steak with the freshness of shrimp, all while being tossed with crisp greens and a zesty dressing. I’ve learned that using quality ingredients makes a huge difference, especially with the steak. Pair it all together for a refreshing meal that feels indulgent yet remains light and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is a true showstopper!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:37:27.868Z

When I first came up with the idea for this Surf and Turf Salad Twist, I didn’t expect it to become a family favorite. The combination of grilled steak and sautéed shrimp tossed with fresh greens has something for everyone, making it a great dish for dinner parties.

One important tip I learned is to let both the steak and shrimp marinate briefly before cooking; this enhances their flavor and tenderness. I usually opt for a simple marinade with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice. It’s a small step that elevates the entire dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors
Ideal for a light yet indulgent meal
Great for impressing guests at dinner parties

      

Choosing the Right Steak

The type of steak you select plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of this Surf and Turf Salad Twist. I recommend using a well-marbled sirloin or ribeye for its rich, buttery taste. Marbling ensures that the meat stays juicy during cooking, creating a fantastic contrast to the crisp greens. When cooking, keep an eye on the color change and ensure you reach your preferred doneness; medium-rare is ideal for a tender bite, typically achieved at an internal temperature of 130-135°F.

If you prefer a leaner cut, consider flank or skirt steak, which are also delicious when sliced against the grain after cooking. Just remember that these cuts may cook faster, so adjust your grilling time accordingly to ensure they don't dry out. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this helps retain juices and enhances overall flavor.

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Shrimp are incredibly quick to cook, so timing is everything. When sautéing or grilling, aim for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a vibrant pink and are just opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a watchful eye. Since shrimp cook rapidly, it's helpful to have everything ready so you can quickly shift gears after finishing the steak. Tossing them in the same pan adds flavor, as they absorb some of the savory drippings left behind.

For those looking to introduce more depth to the shrimp, consider marinating them in a touch of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a mild kick. This not only enhances their flavor but also complements the richness of the steak beautifully. If you have leftover cooked shrimp, they can be refrigerated for a day or two, retaining their flavor when added to stir-fries or pasta the next day.

Customizing Your Salad

This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to swap in different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. For instance, you might use arugula instead of mixed greens for a peppery bite or add cucumber slices for extra crunch. If you want to enhance the texture further, toasted nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, can add a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy avocado and feta cheese.

To boost flavors even more, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the salad just before serving. They offer a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish. Finally, if you're preparing this for a gathering, try arranging the salad ingredients in layers rather than tossing them together for a stunning presentation. This will wow your guests and allow them to mix it up on their own plates!

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Surf and Turf

12 oz steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into strips
8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Divide this marinade in half, using one for the steak and one for the shrimp. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.

Cook the Steak and Shrimp

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak strips for about 5-7 minutes until they reach desired doneness. In the same pan, cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and feta cheese. Add the grilled steak and shrimp on top.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and toss gently.

Serve

Divide the salad into plates and serve immediately, garnishing with additional feta if desired.

Pro Tips

For best results, let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing into strips. This helps retain its juices and enhance flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this Surf and Turf Salad Twist for a gathering, consider prepping the ingredients ahead of time. You can marinate the steak and shrimp the day before, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Just store the marinated proteins in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The salad ingredients can also be prepped a few hours in advance; keep the greens separate from the cut veggies to avoid wilting.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that dressed salads may become soggy over time, so it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. If you need to reheat the shrimp or steak, try a quick sauté over medium heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through—this method will help maintain their textures.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to play around with the dressing to match your taste preferences. For a creamier version, adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can bring an exciting tang to the mix. On the other hand, a splash of sriracha can elevate the dressing to a flavorful kick for those who enjoy some heat.

Other proteins can easily substitute the steak and shrimp. Grilled chicken can be a great option for a leaner choice, while scallops offer a luxurious feel. If you're looking for a vegetarian twist, marinated tofu or chickpeas can provide protein and sturdiness to complement the fresh salad ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common hiccup when working with shrimp is overcooking, which makes them tough. To prevent this, always cook over medium heat and keep a close watch. They should only change color from gray to pink and curl slightly before being removed from the heat. If they have already overcooked, a squeeze of lemon juice can help mask the toughness when served on the salad.

For the steak, if it's tough after cooking, it may not have been sliced against the grain, which is essential for tenderness. If you find yourself in this situation, simply slice it properly and try soaking it in a little vinaigrette to improve its texture. Remember, it's all about learning and adjusting, so don’t be discouraged!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken can be a great substitute if you prefer poultry over red meat.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese also works wonderfully in this salad.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your products to ensure they are gluten-free certified.