Asian Steak Salad

More About This Recipe

• You probably know someone who resolved to eat healthier this year. It’s also likely you know someone who will probably break that resolution. Frankly, this is because when people think of healthy food they think of bland food. They think of green smoothies and liquefied bean curd and all kinds of other healthy (but not appetizing) stuff. It’s really hard to make a complete diet out of stuff that tastes like rabbit food. For me, it’s impossible. When I think of something healthy, it needs to have lots of flavors. I usually try to cut back on stuff like dairy and carbs and huge hunks of meat and cheese, but I still need something with serious flavor. That’s why I call this Asian Flank Steak Salad a diet-saver salad. Sure, it has some red meat on it which some would consider not very healthy, but it just has a few slices. The results are so completely delicious that you’ll completely forget you’re eating something healthy. The flavor in this salad comes from a really intense spice rub that goes on the flank steak. This rub has some really unique flavors and maybe a few spices that you aren’t used to tasting. It starts with pink peppercorns, Szechuan peppercorns, and star anise. If you can’t find these spices in your local stores, check Penzey’s online. They have a great selection. Mix these guys together with some cinnamon, mustard, paprika, and a pinch of salt. I used a mortar and pestle to grind mine together but you could also use a more traditional spice grinder. Whatever works for you. Once all this stuff is sliced, pile it high on some lettuce and drizzle with some dressing. Of course, feel free to get fancy like I did in the first photo and alternate slices for a pretty effect. This is the kind of salad that I like to take for lunch also. It’s really filling and packs nicely. Just remember to bring your dressing separately or your greens will get really soggy. While this might not be the healthiest salad in the world, it’s got enough flavor to keep your diet and hunger in check. Try it out if you feel yourself slipping away from that New Year’s resolution!