Mediterranean Thai Beef Salad
This vibrant Mediterranean Thai Beef Salad is a culinary fusion that delivers the best of both worlds — the savory, spiced steak and zesty lime-chili dressing from Thai cuisine, paired with Mediterranean vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and fresh herbs. It’s a protein-packed, low-carb, and ultra-refreshing salad perfect for warm days, healthy dinners, or light lunches. Expect bursts of flavor, satisfying textures, and a nutrient-rich profile in every bite.
Whether you’re grilling steak outdoors or pan-searing indoors, this dish is quick to prepare, yet packed with complexity and global flair.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time (optional): 15–30 minutes
Total Time: 25–40 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Beef:
1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp chili flakes or 1 Thai chili (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Salad Base:
2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp rice vinegar or red wine vinegar
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Add the beef slices, toss to coat, and let marinate for 15–30 minutes (optional but recommended for flavor).
Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the beef slices for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Set aside to rest.
Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mint, and parsley.
Make the Dressing:
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, honey, Dijon (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
Assemble the Salad:
Slice the beef thinly if needed and place it over the salad. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss or serve dressing on the side.
Serve:
Garnish with more fresh herbs, a sprinkle of sesame seeds (optional), or crumbled feta for Mediterranean flair.
Tips & Variations
Tips:
Slice against the grain: for a more tender beef texture.
Rest the meat: for 5 minutes after cooking so the juices stay locked in.
Serve warm or cold: This salad tastes great with hot beef or chilled for a refreshing meal.
Variations:
Add grains: Serve over quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a heartier bowl.
Swap protein: Use grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp instead of beef.
Heat it up: Add more Thai chili, sriracha, or chili oil for extra spice.
Cheese option: Add crumbled feta or shaved parmesan for a creamy touch.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Marinate and cook the beef ahead, then refrigerate. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: What cut of beef works best?
A: Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye works well — just slice thinly and don’t overcook.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and confirm your fish sauce is gluten-free.
Q: Can I grill the beef instead of pan-searing?
A: Absolutely — grilling adds a smoky depth that pairs well with the bold flavors.
Nutrition Information (per serving – approx. for 3 servings)
Calories: 380
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Sodium: 680mg
Values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Thai Beef Salad is a bold, fresh, and protein-packed dish that unites the bright, herbaceous flavors of the Mediterranean with the spicy, tangy punch of Thai cuisine. It’s ideal for summer meals, low-carb lifestyles, or anyone looking for a vibrant, satisfying salad that doesn’t feel like diet food. Light yet filling, and ready in under 40 minutes — it’s the best of both worlds in one bowl!