5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

After a long day at work, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado uses a simple grocery store salad kit, a quick-grilled steak, and a few fresh add-ins for a fast, healthy meal ready in just 30 minutes.

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

It’s been one of those weeks where work seems to take every ounce of energy I have. By the time I'm done, the thought of cooking anything that takes more than half an hour feels like a drudgery. Still, we’ve got to eat — and ideally, takeout isn't a plus when you want a good healthy meal.  

So to remedy this I've been choosing from a treasure chest of  5-ingredient recipes that get a little help from the grocery store. Salad kits, and for today's recipe we will choose a Southwestern-style one.  These recipes have become my secret weapon that I will share with you.  First up, a steak salad with avocado.  These ready made kits make it so easy to throw together something fresh, colorful, and satisfying — without chopping ten different vegetables or mixing up a homemade dressing after a long day.

This 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado is a new favorite. It starts with a ready-to-go chopped salad kit, then gets a boost from smoky grilled steak, creamy avocado, black beans, and bell peppers for a hearty, protein-packed meal. It’s fast, flavorful, and best of all you feel happy and satisfied — even on the nights when cooking isn’t your top priority.  Stay tuned for more 5 ingredient recipes!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s a quick look at the flavor-packed ingredients that make this salad a winner:

• Steak – I like ribeye, sirloin, or NY strip for a juicy, flavorful protein. Grilling it quickly locks in all the savory goodness.

• Southwestern-Style Salad Kit – These kits are a game-changer for weeknight meals. They come with pre-chopped greens, a zesty dressing, and crunchy toppings that instantly elevate the salad.

• Black Beans – A hearty addition that boosts protein and fiber, making this salad feel more like a full meal.

• Avocado – Creamy, buttery, and satisfying, avocado adds richness without heaviness, balancing the bold flavors of the steak and dressing.

• Mini Bell Peppers – Sweet, crunchy, and colorful, these little gems add freshness and a pop of visual appeal.

Substitutions and Variations

Basic Ingredient Substitutions:

• Steak: Try chicken breast or grilled salmon.

• Black Beans: Chickpeas or kidney beans make a great alternative.

• Avocado: Sliced cucumbers or roasted zucchini can provide a fresh, creamy texture without the fat content.

• Salad Kit: Try an Asian or Greek Salad kit instead and alter the veggie mix-ins to suit the flavor.  

• Mini Bell Peppers: Carrots, cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced radishes add crunch and color.

Variations:

1. Mediterranean Twist – Swap the Southwestern salad kit for a Mediterranean-style kit. Add cherry tomatoes and olives instead of bell peppers, and sprinkle with feta for a tangy, savory flavor.

2. Autumn Harvest Style – Replace bell peppers with roasted butternut squash or sweet potato cubes. Add a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika to bring a cozy fall vibe to the dish.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t overcook your steak: Aim for medium (140–145°F) to keep it juicy. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing.

• Prep ahead: Rinse beans, slice avocado, and chop peppers while the steak cooks to save time.

• Boost flavor: Toasting salad kit toppers or adding a squeeze of lime over the salad can really elevate the dish.

• Meal prep friendly: Keep components separate and assemble when ready to eat — the avocado can be added last to prevent browning.

• Mix it up: Feel free to switch proteins or add extra veggies — this salad is forgiving and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

• Serve with:  I served this with some roasted butternut squash and a crusty loaf of fresh bread.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Weeknight Cozy Red Chicken Chili

 

Warm up with this easy, one-pot chicken chili that’s ready in just 30 minutes. A cozy red chili packed with bold flavor, tender chicken, and comfort in every bite.

Weeknight Cozy Red Chicken Chili

We had a cozy night last night with some chilly weather which called for something simple, hearty, and full of flavor — and my Weeknight Cozy Red Chicken Chili delivers all of that and more. Unlike your usual white chicken chili, this version simmers in a rich tomato base, filled with tender shredded chicken, sweet bell peppers, and a touch of smoky spice. The aroma alone makes your home fell warm and comforting.

The best part is that it’s an easy, one-pot dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes.  There's very little cooking involved, just sauté some onions and bell peppers and the rest is pretty much dump and go.  The pre-cooked shredded chicken is a lifesaver in this dish!  The perfect dish for those nights when you want a quick meal that is comforting without the fuss. It would be great for Halloween night when time is precious.  So, ladle it into your favorite bowl, top it how you like, and I hope you enjoy the comfort of a warm, red chili on a quiet evening in.  

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and what each brings to your cozy red chicken chili:

• Olive Oil – A flavorful base for sautéing your aromatics, giving your chili a rich, slightly fruity foundation.

• Onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth, building a savory backbone for the chili.

• Garlic – Bursts of aromatic flavor that bring warmth and a comforting, homey feel.

• Bell Peppers – Sweet, tender, and colorful, they add texture and a subtle natural sweetness to balance the spices.  I used a mix of red, orange, and yellow.

• Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Cayenne – A blend of warming spices that gives the chili its signature smoky, slightly spicy flavor.

• Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the rich red base of the chili, creating a hearty, comforting sauce.

• Cooked Shredded Chicken – Tender protein that soaks up the flavors of the chili and keeps it hearty without heaviness.

• Cannellini Beans – Creamy beans that add substance and a satisfying bite while keeping the chili filling.

• Chicken Broth – Adds depth and moisture, making the chili comforting and soup-like while still thick enough to be hearty.

• Cornstarch & Water – A simple thickener that gives the chili a luscious, slightly creamy texture.

• Optional Toppings – From sour cream to avocado and tortilla chips, these let you customize flavor, creaminess, and crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap for turkey, rotisserie chicken, or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.

• Cannellini Beans: Use black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

• Bell Peppers: Any color works; roasted red peppers add smoky sweetness.

• Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version (just add extra beans or tofu).

• Spices: Adjust chili powder or cayenne to taste; smoked paprika adds a smoky depth.

Variations

1. Smoky Chipotle Chicken Chili: Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and a touch of smoked paprika. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky, bold flavor. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for brightness.

2. Autumn Harvest Chicken Chili: Stir in diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a cozy, seasonal twist. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warmth and depth. Serve with cornbread or pumpkin seed toppings for extra seasonal flair.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup easy and saving time on weeknights.

• Meal Prep Friendly: This chili keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3–4 days and freezes well.

• Adjusting Thickness: If your chili is too thin, simmer a little longer or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water.

• Flavor Boost: Let the chili sit for 10–15 minutes after cooking — the flavors continue to meld, making it even richer.

• Topping Ideas: Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro — or mix and match to suit your mood.

       "Set the Mood"        

I'll help you prepare for a wonderful evening with my Weeknight Cozy Red Chicken Chili as the star.  

See below for additional "Mood" setting ideas:

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

  

These Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt and Mediterranean Salad are bursting with bright, fresh flavor. Juicy, tender, and easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is inspired by Primal Gourmet’s healthy Mediterranean-style dishes.

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

My husband and I have always been drawn to Mediterranean flavors — the brightness of lemon, the freshness of herbs, and the way a drizzle of olive oil can make even the simplest ingredients feel special.

One evening while scrolling Instagram, I came across a recipe from Primal Gourmet, one of my favorite creators for Whole30 and healthy spins on global cuisines. His Mediterranean turkey burgers immediately caught my eye — juicy patties packed with spinach and feta, paired with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp salad. I had to try it.

I didn’t stray far from his version, because honestly, it was perfect as-is. The flavors are incredible — the turkey stays juicy and tender, the feta adds a creamy bite, and that lemon-dill yogurt ties everything together. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet fresh and elegant enough to serve for guests.

This has quickly become one of my new favorites — a dish that tastes like sunshine, simplicity, and the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite.

Enjoy!

Visit Primal Gourmet here.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers come together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that balance brightness and comfort beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Turkey: Lean yet tender, turkey provides the perfect canvas for Mediterranean herbs and creamy feta. Choose 93% lean for juicy, flavorful patties.

• Baby Spinach: Adds color, moisture, and a subtle earthy note that keeps the burgers tender and nutrient-packed.

• Feta Cheese: Brings salty, tangy flavor and little creamy pops in every bite. Look for authentic Greek feta packed in brine for the best flavor.

• Garlic: Freshly grated garlic deepens the flavor and ties together the lemon, dill, and herbs.

• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the burger mixture together while adding a little richness.

• Fresh Dill: Adds a bright, herbal kick to the yogurt sauce that complements the feta perfectly.

• Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy — it’s the base for that dreamy lemon-dill sauce that cools and balances the savory burgers.

• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and acidity, essential to achieving that true Mediterranean flavor.

• Olive Oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking — use a good-quality extra-virgin oil for both the salad and cooking the burgers.

• Fresh Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Lettuce): Crisp, juicy, and colorful, they round out the plate with texture and freshness.

• Fresh Parsley: A little sprinkle adds color, freshness, and that classic Mediterranean green note.

Substitutions and Variations

These turkey burgers are wonderfully flexible — you can adjust them for what you have on hand or give them a new flavor twist altogether.

Basic Substitutions

• Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a similar lean option. For a richer flavor, try ground lamb or beef.

• Greens: Use finely chopped kale or arugula instead of spinach. Both add a slightly different flavor and extra nutrients.

• Cheese: If you’re out of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang or crumbled cotija for a saltier bite.

• Yogurt: Regular Greek yogurt is best, but dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt work for a lighter option.

• Herbs: No dill? Try fresh mint, basil, or oregano for a different Mediterranean spin.

Variation 1: Greek Island Style

Add a few chopped Kalamata olives and a pinch of lemon zest to the burger mixture, then top the finished burgers with sliced cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil. The olives bring depth and briny balance to the creamy feta.

Variation 2: Spicy Mediterranean Twist

Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste or a pinch of cayenne into the turkey mixture and top the burgers with a spoonful of tzatziki instead of the lemon-dill yogurt. This version brings heat and depth while keeping that fresh, Mediterranean vibe.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Chill the Patties: Refrigerating the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them firm up and hold their shape beautifully.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed — overworking the meat can make the burgers dense.

• Use Damp Hands: Lightly wet your hands before forming the patties; this prevents sticking and gives you smooth, even shapes.

• Cook in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan so the burgers brown evenly and develop that golden crust.

• Make Ahead Friendly: The burger mixture and the yogurt sauce can both be prepped a day ahead — perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

• Serving Idea: Serve these burgers over the salad, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or tucked into warm pita with extra lemon-dill yogurt for a handheld version.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇