Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries
There’s something timeless and soul-satisfying about a well-grilled steak served alongside a vibrant tomato salad and a heaping portion of crispy French fries. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or making a special weeknight dinner, this dish is a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients.
The herb-rubbed steak brings the smoky richness, the tomato and onion salad adds a fresh, tangy contrast, and the fries? Well, they just complete the party on your plate.
Why You’ll Love This Meal
Balanced plate: Rich, fresh, and crispy elements in perfect harmony
Easy to customize: Use your favorite steak cut, herbs, or salad twist
Ideal for grilling season: Or cook indoors on a grill pan year-round
Impressively simple: Just a few ingredients, huge flavor payoff
Ingredients
For the Steak:
2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or thyme/rosemary if preferred)
Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
For the Tomato & Onion Salad:
2 large tomatoes, sliced or chopped
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped
For the French Fries:
4 medium russet potatoes, cut into fries or wedges
2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
Salt, to taste
Optional: Paprika, garlic powder, or Parmesan for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Rub this mixture all over the steaks. Let them sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes while you prep the fries and salad. (For more flavor, marinate up to 4 hours in the fridge.)
2. Prep and Bake the Fries (or Air Fry)
Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss fries with oil, salt, and any optional seasonings. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Air Fryer Method:
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
3. Make the Tomato and Onion Salad
Combine sliced tomatoes and red onions in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Toss gently and set aside to let the flavors meld.
4. Grill the Steaks
Outdoor Grill:
Preheat grill to high heat. Grill steaks for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
Indoor Grill Pan:
Heat pan over medium-high. Sear steaks 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred internal temp:
130°F (54°C) for medium-rare
140°F (60°C) for medium
Let steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
5. Assemble and Serve
Plate your grilled steak alongside a generous scoop of tomato and onion salad.
Add a hot stack of crispy fries.
Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt, fresh herbs, or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction if you’re feeling fancy.
Tips for Success
Rest the steak before slicing to keep it juicy.
Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Soak raw potato slices in cold water for 30 minutes before baking for extra crispy fries.
Use heirloom tomatoes for an elevated salad.
Add crumbled feta or olives to the salad for Mediterranean flair.
Variations
Swap steak for grilled chicken or portobello mushrooms for a lighter version.
Add a chimichurri sauce or garlic herb butter over the steak.
Use sweet potatoes for a healthier fry option.
Make it spicy with sliced chili in the salad or a dash of cayenne in the steak rub.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover steak: Store in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently or slice cold for steak sandwiches or salads.
Fries: Best fresh, but can be crisped back up in the oven or air fryer.
Salad: Serve fresh—avoid storing once dressed, as it will get soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries is the ultimate trio: smoky, juicy steak meets tangy garden-fresh salad and addictively crispy fries. It’s the kind of no-fuss, full-flavor meal that brings everyone to the table—hungry and happy.
Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, this dish delivers on all fronts. 