Surf and Turf Salad Twist

Name: Surf and Turf Salad Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz grilled steak, sliced; 8 oz grilled shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Taste Journey

I absolutely love this Surf and Turf Salad Twist! It beautifully combines tender grilled steak and succulent shrimp with fresh greens and a tangy dressing. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner, and it always impresses guests with its vibrant colors and flavors. The contrast of textures—crunchy lettuce, juicy seafood, and savory beef—makes each bite a delight. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to dish for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:46:30.417Z

This Surf and Turf Salad Twist became a family favorite after my first time preparing it for a summer barbecue. The combination of grilled steak and shrimp is not only a visual treat but also a flavor explosion, making it a perfect centerpiece for a meal. I experimented with the dressing to ensure it balanced well with the meats and the greens, resulting in a zesty kick that brings everything together beautifully.

Through trial and error, I learned that marinating the steak beforehand elevates its tenderness and flavor. Also, I recommend using fresh herbs whenever possible to enhance the overall taste of the salad. Each component is designed to add a unique element, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The combination of tender steak and juicy shrimp creates a flavor explosion.
A refreshing dressing ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
Colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching dish for gatherings.

      

The Art of Grilling

Grilling the steak and shrimp is crucial for achieving that smoky flavor that enhances this salad. For the best results, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). When grilling the steak, it's important to let it reach room temperature for about 30 minutes beforehand, allowing it to cook evenly. Look for a grilled exterior with visible grill marks, and use a meat thermometer to check for medium-rare at 135°F (57°C). This not only prevents overcooking but maintains juiciness.

When it comes to the shrimp, be mindful of their cooking time. They should be grilled for only 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque and pink, as overcooking can lead to rubbery texture. I love marinating shrimp with a bit of olive oil and garlic before grilling for additional flavor, but even a simple seasoning of salt and pepper will highlight their natural sweetness.

Selecting Fresh Ingredients

Choosing high-quality ingredients will make a significant difference in the flavor and overall enjoyment of your Surf and Turf Salad Twist. For the mixed greens, I recommend using a variety of textures, such as arugula for pepperiness and spinach for tenderness. Freshness is key here—the greens should be vibrant and crisp. If you're shopping for dressings, look for cold-pressed olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the dressing's brightness.

Avocados should be perfectly ripe for that creamy texture that contrasts with the crunchy greens. To pick the right avocado, gently press it; it should yield slightly without being mushy. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, so choose those that are brightly colored and firm. If you're in a crunch, feel free to swap cherry tomatoes with bell peppers for a different crunch or add in some sliced cucumbers for a refreshing twist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create the perfect Surf and Turf Salad Twist:

For the Salad

8 oz grilled steak, sliced
8 oz grilled shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all these fresh ingredients on hand for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Surf and Turf Salad Twist:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grill the Meats

Season the steak and shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, and grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. Add the grilled steak and shrimp on top.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Surf and Turf Salad Twist!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding crumbled feta or blue cheese on top of the salad. You can also make the salad ahead of time and keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent wilting.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can easily be prepared in advance, making it an ideal option for meal prep. You can grill the steak and shrimp up to a day before serving. Once cooled, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep the dressing stored separately until you're ready to assemble the salad to prevent the greens from wilting.

If you're anticipating leftovers, consider keeping the ingredients separate as well. This keeps the fresh textures intact and allows you to customize each serving. The salad can be stored for up to two days after assembly, but for optimal freshness, it's best enjoyed the day it's made.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with this salad by incorporating additional toppings or substitutions. For a Tex-Mex twist, try adding black beans, corn, and crumbled tortilla chips, along with a cilantro-lime dressing. This variation boosts the fiber content and adds a fun crunch to the dish.

If you want a lighter option, swap out the steak for grilled chicken or tofu and maintain the shrimp for your seafood fix. Similarly, if you're pressed for time, using pre-cooked shrimp can save you a few precious minutes without sacrificing flavor. Just be cautious of the cooking time to keep everything fresh and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the steak with chicken or lamb and still maintain the delicious profile.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Omit the meat and replace it with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, or add chickpeas for protein.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.