If you're looking for a new recipe that's delicious, hearty, and healthy, look no further than this grilled steak and blue cheese salad with grilled corn! This savory dish is made with flavorful steak, creamy blue cheese, and sweet grilled corn. Pair with a glass of the J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon to create a world-class meal that's sure to please. Not only is this dish tasty, but it's also easy to make, giving you a delectable dinner on the table in no time! One of my favorite go to salad meals and I am especially enjoying it on National Cabernet Day today!

Let me just say, that this unique combination of flavors will surely impress your dinner guests and make even the pickiest eater happy. A juicy steak is the perfect complement to the tangy blue cheese and smoky grilled corn for a flavor combination that is out of this world. Let's not forget that when accompanied by a glass of J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet, the dining adventure of this meal becomes truly epic! The bold, full-bodied flavor of the Cabernet adds the perfect touch of elegance to this dish, making it an ideal pairing for a casual dinner at home to an elegant dinner party.

A little background on the wine is that it is produced and bottled by J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines in Paso Robles, CA. In the glass you’lll see a deep, bright, red-purple hue and on the nose an abundance of dark cherry and black currant fruit enhanced by accent notes of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla. This comes from their extensive barrel aging program. I find that you can pair this Cabernet with a variety of dishes, from pulled pork sandwiches and coleslaw to your favorite lasagna. Hard cheeses and beef are the best pairing of them all which is why I think this steak and blue cheese salad is the ultimate dish.

Steak Choices

The key to making this salad is to choose the right cut of steak. In my opinion, a grilled ribeye works best as the ribeye has a bold, beefy flavor that will stand up to the intense flavors of the blue cheese. For a juicy, flavorful steak, look for a steak with plenty of marbling. To get that perfect medium-rare steak, grill each side for 3-4 minutes at high heat. Make sure to rest the steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking, as this will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure it’s perfectly juicy. Add grilled corn, blue cheese crumbles, and a drizzle of the blue cheese dressing to complete the salad.

Grilling Corn

Start lightly brushing the corn with extra virgin olive oil or melted butter before grilling. This will ensure even cooking and maximum flavor when it's time to add it to the salad. Grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning frequently, for approximately 8-10 minutes until it is lightly charred and tender. Add a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to the corn for optimal flavor before grilling. Once the corn is finished grilling, let it cool slightly before adding it to the salad.

Salad Ingredients

Serving 4

10 ounces of butter lettuce or mixed spring greens

2 - 10 oz ribeye steaks

1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles

4 corn on the cob

1/2 a large red onion, sliced

6 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

1 avocado thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise

3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk

1/2 cup sour cream

4 oz blue cheese crumbled

3 garlic cloves minced

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

1/4-1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

Directions

1. Rinse and pat dry all fruit and vegetables.

2. Add all dressing ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. If you liked your blue cheese dressing more chunky, you can add crumbles into the dressing now. For a thinner consistency, leave alone after blending. This dressing can be premade in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days ahead.

3. Grill steaks and corn. Start your grill, butter corn on the cob, and add salt and pepper to corn and steaks. Place steaks and corn on the grill. Grill corn for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes. Grill Steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking. Remove all from the grill and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Slice steaks into strips and cut corn off of the cob.

4. Now, it's time to assemble the grilled steak blue cheese salad with grilled corn salad. Add butter lettuce roughly chopped into a large bowl with half the red onion, corn, blue cheese, and cherry tomatoes. Pour dressing over the top and stir together! Then, layer the remainder of the red onion, corn, cherry tomatoes, sliced steak, and avocado. Liberally sprinkle blue cheese on top and serve!

My husband and I always enjoy a great steak dinner with a chopped salad, the perfect way to enjoy it as a lighter fare. Nothing compares to the smoky, charred flavor of grilled steak and the blue cheese's nutty richness. Enjoy the flavors of this delicious steak salad paired with the J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon for a truly memorable experience. I love how this Cabernet brings out the charred flavors of the steak and the nutty flavors of the blue cheese. The sweetness of the grilled corn is a perfect balance for the bold cabernet, creating an unparalleled flavor combination.

For Other Recipes & Pairings with J.Lohr wines:

The Perfect Pair: Chicken Picatta and J. Lohr Wine

Planning the Perfect Romantic Picnic with J. Lohr Wines

The Bloggers Guide to Merlot

If you're looking for a delicious and light meal, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect dish. This flavorful salad is packed with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, and is combined with an Italian-inspired dressing and a variety of delicious cheeses. The combination of flavors in this dish creates an amazing variety of tastes and is sure to please everyone at the table. Not only is it a great entree, but its bright colors and unique flavors also make it a great side dish for any lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this Mediterranean Pasta Salad in no time. For a delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for summer picnics and barbecues, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the way to go. It's an easy dish to prepare and can be served either warm or cold.

Not only is this salad full of delicious flavor, but it is also low in fat and calories. You can customize this dish to your liking by adding different vegetables, proteins, and dressings of your choice. Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and healthy fats. It's a quick and easy meal that's sure to please everyone and have them coming back for a second scoop.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

Mediterranean pasta salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be tailored to your tastes. It's easy to customize the ingredients for a unique set of flavors and textures. For a tangy kick, substitute feta cheese for Parmesan cheese. Olives and sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while whole-wheat bowtie pasta gives it a healthier twist with fewer carbs. Olive oil is a great substitute for mayonnaise to reduce fat and calories. Chopped artichoke hearts give the dish a unique texture, while fresh basil for a more intense herb flavor. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal, and capers for an extra salty kick. For a creamier texture, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Roasted red peppers bring a touch of sweetness, and arugula can be used instead of spinach for a peppery taste. With so many options, Mediterranean pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

What to Pair with Your Summer Pasta Salad

A Mediterranean pasta salad is a light and delicious dish that is perfect for Summertime meals. Its combination of fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and herbs makes it a great way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean. To complete the meal, a light, dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with this salad. For a more flavorful drink, try a crisp, bubbly rosé or a chilled rosé Spritzer. Freshly baked garlic bread is also a great addition to this meal.

For a more complete meal, serve the Mediterranean pasta salad with a side of my delicious baked chicken drumsticks, steak, or salmon. For a vegan option, serve the salad with a side of lentils or roasted vegetables. To brighten the meal, add a side of freshly cut fruit or a fruit salad. Finally, top off the meal with a light dessert like a homemade fruit tart or ice cream.

How to Store Mediterranean Pasta Salad

When storing the Mediterranean pasta salad, make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. If possible, store the salad without the dressing and add it just before serving. The Mediterranean pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store the salad for a longer time, freeze it in a freezer-safe container.

To reheat the frozen Mediterranean pasta salad, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then cook it in a skillet over medium-high heat or serve cold. This will help to retain the flavor and texture of the salad. Enjoy the Mediterranean pasta salad as is or top it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

How Long Will Pasta Salad Last In the Fridge?

A good pasta salad is a great way to use up leftover pasta, and the combination of flavors is sure to please any crowd. The best part is that you can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, so it's perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. When storing your pasta salad in the fridge, make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from spoiling. If you're not planning to eat the pasta salad within 4 days, it's a good idea to freeze it to keep it fresh longer.

It's important to remember that if you notice that the pasta salad is starting to look or smell off, it's best to discard it. While it's okay to keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days, any longer than that and you may not be able to trust the quality of the dish. So make sure to store it properly and enjoy it while it's still fresh.

My Best Pasta Salad Tips

To make this delicious salad, start with your favorite type of pasta. Penne, shells, or rotini all work great. Then, mix in a light vinaigrette or Italian-style dressing to keep it light and flavorful. Add in some fresh, seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions. If you're looking for a bit more protein, try adding some chickpeas, olives, feta cheese, or grilled chicken. Finish off the salad with some fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano. Keep it chilled until ready to serve.

To ensure maximum flavor, use fresh ingredients when making Mediterranean Pasta Salad. For a salty kick, add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Top it off with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for a hint of Mediterranean flavor. With a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious and healthy Summertime meal

Served Warm or Cold?

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a delicious and healthy meal option that can be served both warm and cold. If served warm, the flavors of the vegetables, herbs, and cheese will be more intense and the pasta will be more tender. If served cold, the salad will have a refreshing taste and the vegetables will be crunchy. Whichever way you choose to serve it, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

The beauty of Mediterranean Pasta Salad is that it can be made with whatever ingredients you have on hand. From tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for the classic version to adding artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and roasted garlic for a more intense flavor, the possibilities are endless! You can also easily customize the salad with your favorite herbs and spices.

Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy lunch or dinner option, or something that will feed a large crowd, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is an easy and delicious choice that the whole group will love. You can make it ahead of time and serve it warm or cold, so you don’t have to worry about last-minute meal prep. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra veggies you have in the fridge. Try making this Mediterranean Pasta Salad today – you won’t be disappointed with this family-friendly yummy dish!

Ingredients

16 ounces of favorite cooked pasta

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1 cup cucumber, sliced into quarters

1/2 a medium red onion

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

1 15.5 oz canned chickpeas, drained

1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini

2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

Dressing

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

3 tablespoons mayo

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon maple syrup

sea salt & black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside in bowl.

2. Mix together all dressing ingredients in mason jar and shake together until fully blended, adding sea salt & black pepper until desired taste.

3. Prepare vegtables; slice cherry tomatoes in half, cut cucumbers into quarters, cut red onion into slices, pit and cut in half kalamata olives, and slice pepperoncini into desired shapes. add ingredients into bowl with pasta and pour over dressing. Mix together. Serve topped with feta cheese & serve.