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:
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.
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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