Looking for a delicious and healthy salad option? Try the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad with Low Fat Dijon Vinaigrette! This salad packs a flavorful punch with juicy steak, tangy bleu cheese, and a zesty dressing. And the best part? It's only 870 calories per serving!

But don't let the calorie count fool you – this salad is full of beneficial nutrients. The steak provides a hefty dose of protein, while the bleu cheese offers calcium and vitamin D. And the greens? They're packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. So, not only is this salad delicious, but it's also good for you!

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, nutritional information, preparation method, and more for the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad. Plus, we'll share some tips for making it even healthier and offer suggestions for serving it up. Let's get started!

Ingredients of Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

To make the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz. steak, cooked and sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup crumbled bleu cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup low-fat Dijon vinaigrette
• 2 tbsp. chopped walnuts (optional)

Feel free to adjust the ingredient amounts to suit your taste or dietary needs. And, if you're a vegetarian or vegan, you can easily swap out the steak for a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas.

Nutritional Information of Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (using the ingredient amounts listed above):

• calories: 870
• Protein: 49g
• Fat: 62g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 10g

As mentioned earlier, this salad may be higher in calories and fat than some other options, but it's still a nutritious choice. If you're looking to cut back on calories or fat, you can make some simple substitutions or modifications (which we'll cover in the next section).

Preparation Method of Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to put them together! Here's how to prepare the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad:

1. Cook the steak to your desired doneness and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
2. While the steak is resting, prepare your salad ingredients (wash and dry the greens, chop the onion, etc.)
3. In a large bowl, combine the greens, onion, and cherry tomatoes. Toss to combine.
4. Add the sliced steak and crumbled bleu cheese to the salad bowl.
5. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat. Top with chopped walnuts (if using) and serve immediately.

And that's it! This salad comes together quickly and easily, making it a great option for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend afternoon.

Tips for Making Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad Healthier

While the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad is already a nutritious option, there are a few things you can do to make it even healthier:

• Use a lean cut of steak (like sirloin) instead of a fattier cut (like ribeye) to reduce the overall calories and fat in the salad.
• Swap out the bleu cheese for a lower-fat cheese option like feta or goat cheese.
• Make your own dressing instead of using a store-bought version – this will allow you to control the ingredients and avoid excess sodium or sugar.
• Not a fan of steak? Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp instead.

With a few simple tweaks, you can make this salad fit into your dietary goals and taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions for Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

The Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad makes a great meal on its own, but if you're looking to bulk it up or add some variety, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Add some whole grains like quinoa or farro to the salad for extra fiber and nutrition.
• Pair the salad with a small bowl of soup or a half-sandwich for a well-rounded meal.
• Top the salad with some fresh fruit like strawberries or mandarin oranges for a sweet and savory combo.

Get creative with your serve options – the possibilities are endless!

Benefits of Including Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad in your Diet

Adding the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad to your diet can provide a number of benefits, including:

• Increased protein intake to support muscle growth and repair.
• Calcium and vitamin D from the bleu cheese for strong bones and teeth.
• Boost of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients from the mixed greens.
• Dijon mustard in the vinaigrette for a potential metabolism boost and cancer-fighting properties.

So, not only is this salad delicious, but it can help keep you healthy too!

Variations of Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

While the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad is tasty on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to switch things up. Here are a few ideas:

• Add some roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to the salad for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use different types of greens like spinach or kale to get a variety of vitamins and minerals.
• Swap out the steak for another protein like grilled salmon or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.

Get creative with your variations – you might just discover a new favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions about Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

Q: Can I make the salad ahead of time? A: While this salad is best when served immediately after preparation, you can still make it ahead of time if needed. Just be sure to store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients to prevent the greens from getting soggy. You can also try massaging the greens with a little bit of olive oil before adding the dressing to help them hold up better. Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of bleu cheese?

Storage Instructions for Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

If you have leftovers of the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad, you can store them in the refrigerator for a day or two. However, the greens may become wilted and the flavors may meld together, so it's best to consume it as soon as possible. To store the salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. Store the dressing separately and only add it to the salad right before serving. You can also separate the meat, greens, and cheese into different containers to keep them fresh longer. When you're ready to eat the leftovers, simply combine the salad ingredients in a bowl and add the dressing. Give it a quick toss to combine and enjoy!

History of Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad

The origin of the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad is unclear, but it likely evolved from the popular Wendy's menu item – the Steakhouse Salad (which also features steak, bleu cheese, and mixed greens). However, the addition of the Dijon vinaigrette and other ingredients may have been created by home cooks or restaurant chefs looking to switch things up. Regardless of its origins, the Steak & Bleu Cheese Entree Salad has become a staple in many households and restaurants. It's a flavorful and nutritious option that can be enjoyed year-round!