Let’s be real — salads can sometimes get a bad reputation for being boring. But this one? Oh no, this is not your average salad. It’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with the perfect mix of textures and flavours: tender steak, sweet strawberries, peppery rocket, creamy avocado, and a silky maple tahini dressing to bring it all together.
This isn’t just about taste, though. This salad is a nutrition powerhouse that:
- Delivers a protein boost to keep your energy steady
- Balances blood sugar with fibre and healthy fats
- Nourishes your hormones with nutrient-rich whole foods
- Feels light yet satisfying (no “I’m still hungry after a salad” vibes here)
It’s the kind of meal you can throw together in under 30 minutes, but still feel like you’re treating yourself to something restaurant-worthy.
THE STAR PLAYERS: WHY EACH INGREDIENT MATTERS.
One of my favourite things about recipes like this is how each ingredient brings its own benefits. Let’s break it down:
Ribeye Steak
Rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins, steak isn’t just about flavour — it supports muscle repair, oxygen transport in the blood, and hormone production. Ribeye, in particular, has great marbling, meaning it stays tender and juicy even with a quick sear.
Strawberries
Bright, sweet, and antioxidant-packed, strawberries provide vitamin C (great for immunity and skin) and polyphenols that support heart health. Their natural sweetness also balances the savoury richness of the steak.
Avocado
Creamy, dreamy, and full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocado adds both flavour and satiety. Plus, it provides fibre and potassium, making it a perfect hormone- and energy-supporting food.
Rocket (Arugula)
Peppery and slightly bitter, rocket is more than just a leafy green — it’s part of the cruciferous veggie family, meaning it supports liver detox pathways and hormone balance. It’s also rich in vitamin K for bone and heart health.
Maple Tahini Dressing
Tahini (made from sesame seeds) is a source of plant-based calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats. Paired with maple syrup for natural sweetness and a hint of Dijon mustard for zing, this dressing is creamy, nourishing, and ties everything together beautifully. You can find the recipe here.
THE RECIPE: SEARED STEAK & STRAWBERRY SALAD.
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Ingredients
600 g (21 oz) ribeye steaks, boneless
170 g (6 oz) rocket (arugula)
200 g (7 oz) strawberries, quartered
2 ripe avocados, sliced
6 servings Maple Tahini Dressing (get the recipe here)
½ tsp olive oil
Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper
METHOD.
- Prep the steaks: Pat the steaks dry and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let them come to room temperature while you prep the salad ingredients.
- Sear the steaks: Heat a large skillet or frypan over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 4–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let them rest for 5–10 minutes.
- Build the salad base: Toss the rocket in 2 tablespoons of the Maple Tahini Dressing and divide between four plates.
- Add toppings: Arrange strawberries and avocado slices on top of the greens.
- Slice and serve: Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain and layer over each salad. Drizzle with the remaining Maple Tahini Dressing and serve immediately.
Pro tip: Always rest your steak! It locks in juices so every bite stays tender.
VARIATIONS & SWAPS.
The beauty of this salad is its flexibility. Here are some fun twists:
Change the protein: Swap steak for grilled chicken, lamb, or even pan-seared salmon.
Make it vegetarian: Try grilled halloumi, roasted chickpeas, or marinated tofu instead of steak.
Mix up the fruit: Blueberries, raspberries, or even grilled peaches pair beautifully with steak.
Play with greens: Spinach, kale, or mixed baby greens all work well.
Add crunch: Toasted walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds add texture and extra healthy fats.
WHY THIS SALAD SUPPORTS ENERGY & HORMONE HEALTH.
This isn’t just about flavour — the nutrient synergy in this salad makes it perfect for steady energy and balanced hormones:
- Protein from steak → supports muscle repair, blood sugar balance, and hormone production.
- Fibre and antioxidants from strawberries + rocket → support gut and liver health.
- Healthy fats from avocado and tahini → keep you satisfied and support hormone regulation.
TIPS FOR MAKING IT EFFORTLESS.
Meal-prep the dressing: Make a batch of Maple Tahini Dressing at the start of the week — it’s delicious on everything.
Cook once, eat twice: Grill extra steak for quick wraps, bowls, or breakfast eggs the next day.
Prep ahead: Slice strawberries and wash greens in advance so the salad comes together in minutes.
Make it portable: This salad travels well — just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
WHEN TO ENJOY THIS SALAD.
Honestly? Anytime. But here are a few perfect moments for it:
- A quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy but takes under 30 minutes.
- A summer BBQ dish that’ll wow your guests.
- A nutrient-packed lunch to take the edge off your afternoon slump.
- A post-workout meal with the perfect mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbs.
FINAL THOUGHTS: NOURISHMENT THAT FEELS LIKE A TREAT.
This Seared Steak and Strawberry Salad is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrifice. It’s flavourful, nutrient-dense, and genuinely satisfying — the kind of meal that makes you excited to eat well.
So next time you’re craving something fresh, colourful, and a little indulgent, give this salad a go. Pair it with a crisp glass of sparkling water, enjoy it outdoors if you can, and savour every bite knowing you’re fuelling your body in the best possible way.
