Seared Steak with Sesame Noodle Salad: Flavorful Fusion for Weeknight Dinners
Savor rich meat paired with crisp vegetables and zesty Asian-inspired dressing.
Seared Steak with Sesame Noodle Salad
The Seared Steak with Sesame Noodle Salad brings together the richness of savorily crusted steak and the zing of an Asian-inspired cold noodle salad. Whether you’re searching for a visually appealing dish for guests or a practical, flavorful meal for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers balance, texture, and a burst of fresh ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor harmony: Delicate spice, umami-rich soy, and toasted sesame oil intertwine with tender steak and crisp vegetables.
- Textural contrast: Juicy steak slices atop cool, toothsome noodles and fresh cabbage/cucumber for a palate-pleasing bite.
- Simple to execute: A streamlined process means the whole meal comes together quickly, with much of the prep done ahead.
- Perfect for gatherings: The dish is excellent served family-style or plated individually for formal occasions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp, plus more to taste |
| Spaghetti or other thin noodles | 8 oz |
| Vegetable oil | 5 Tbsp (divided) |
| Low-sodium soy sauce | 6 Tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Rice vinegar | 1 1/2 Tbsp |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 1/2 Tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 Tbsp |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 tsp |
| Shredded red cabbage | 10-oz package |
| English cucumber, cut into matchsticks | 1/2 (about 1 cup) |
| Boneless strip steaks | 4 (about 2 1/4 pounds total, 1/2-inch thick) |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Scallions, thinly sliced | 2 |
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or thin noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until tender but firm. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sesame Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Add the drained noodles, shredded cabbage, and cucumber matchsticks to the bowl with the dressing. Toss thoroughly so that all ingredients are well coated. Let the salad sit while you prepare the steak; this allows flavors to meld and infuses the vegetables with the dressing.
Step 4: Sear the Steaks
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Season both sides of each steak with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp black pepper.
- Add two steaks to the hot skillet and place a heavy skillet or Dutch oven on top; this gives a great crust. Cook for 30 seconds under the weight.
- Remove the weight and continue cooking till the bottom browns, 2–3 minutes.
- Flip, reapply weight for 30 seconds, then finish browning, about 2 more minutes for medium to medium-rare.
- Transfer steaks to a cutting board to rest while you repeat the process with the remaining oil and steaks.
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve
- Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes to retain their juices.
- Slice the steaks against the grain for tenderness.
- Serve strips of steak over the sesame noodle salad. Sprinkle with thinly sliced scallions for freshness and color.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Weigh down the steaks in the pan with a heavy skillet or Dutch oven. This speeds up browning and gives the meat a beautiful crust.
- Slice steak against the grain: Ensures every bite is tender and easy to eat.
- Let noodles soak: Allowing the noodle salad to rest can improve flavor absorption, making for a better dish.
- Use a cast iron skillet: Its even heat distributes perfectly for a golden sear.
- Make ahead: Prepare the noodle salad hours in advance and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
- Noodles: Substitute spaghetti with soba, rice vermicelli, or another thin Asian noodle for authentic flavor and gluten-free options.
- Steak: Try sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak if strip steak is unavailable.
- Vegetables: Add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for more crunch and nutrition.
- Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative or ponzu for a citrusy twist.
- Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil imparts a deeper flavor; avoid plain sesame oil if possible.
- Vegan/Vegetarian: Marinate and sear tofu or tempeh for a meatless variation; use mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce for umami.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions
- Plate steak strips directly over the noodles or arrange on the side for a composed look.
- Serve with extra scallions, chili flakes, and a drizzle of sesame oil for guests to customize.
- Pair with a crisp white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc) or Asian beer for a refreshing complement.
- This meal works well both warm and cold; noodle salad is especially tasty chilled, while steak can be gently reheated.
- Make the sesame noodle base ahead, and slice steak just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes
Combining lean protein with fiber-rich vegetables and the heart-healthy fat from sesame oil makes for a balanced plate. This recipe is moderate in sodium (use low-sodium soy sauce) and can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting both noodles and sauce. Load up on cabbage and cucumber to boost antioxidants and vitamins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other cuts of beef instead of strip steak?
Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, flank, or even leftover grilled steak will work. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
How do I prevent my noodles from clumping?
Drain well and toss them with dressing while still warm so the oil coats each strand.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare the noodle salad up to 24 hours ahead; steak should be sliced and added just before serving for optimal freshness.
Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick. Adjust or omit for a milder flavor, or substitute with a splash of chili oil.
What sides are best with steak and sesame noodle salad?
Consider simple Asian-inspired sides like steamed edamame, roasted broccoli, or pickled vegetables for complementary flavors.
Variations and Customizations
- Ginger boost: Add 2 tsp fresh ginger to the dressing for extra zing.
- Herbs: Toss fresh cilantro or mint leaves with the noodle salad for a layer of freshness.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for texture.
- Vegetable expansion: Shredded carrots, thin-sliced radish, or julienned bell peppers add flavor and color.
- Chili heat: Serve with sriracha or extra chili oil for spice lovers.
Chef’s Notes
Marinating the steak with a few tablespoons of the dressing imparts even more flavor. For large gatherings, slice steak in advance and cover tightly in foil to keep warm. Leftovers keep well refrigerated, and the noodle salad can be served cold for lunch the next day.
Pairings and Nutrition Information
| Component | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Steak | High protein, iron, and B-vitamins; choose lean cuts for lighter fare. |
| Noodles | Energy and fiber, choose whole wheat or gluten-free as needed. |
| Cabbage & Cucumber | Antioxidants, vitamins, hydration, low calories. |
| Sesame Oil | Heart-healthy fats and deep nutty flavor. |
Each serving (approximate values):
Calories: 550–700
Fat: 25–35g
Protein: 40–60g
Carbohydrates: 45–60g
Hosting with Style
- Serve in large bowls for a rustic family-style feel, or build customized plates for individual servings.
- Garnish with colorful fresh herbs or edible flowers for a festive touch.
- Provide chopsticks, small Asian soup spoons, or bamboo bowls to enhance the theme.
- Serve with Asian-inspired cocktails, iced teas, or mocktails for a memorable meal.
Storage and Leftovers
- Keep noodle salad and sliced steak separated in airtight containers if storing overnight.
- Noodle salad keeps for up to 2 days in the fridge; steak is best eaten within 24 hours for full flavor.
- Toss leftover noodles with additional herbs or vegetables for a unique lunch.
Expert Tips for Customizing Your Meal
- Make it a bowl: Add pickled vegetables, a soft-boiled egg, or roasted peanuts for a fusion noodle bowl experience.
- Go gluten-free: Use rice noodles and tamari.
- Vegetarian version: Swap steak for grilled tofu, portobello mushrooms, or tempeh, seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Calorie-conscious: Use lean cuts of steak and increase the proportion of veggies to noodles.
Conclusion
This Seared Steak with Sesame Noodle Salad recipe delivers a perfect mix of bold flavor, nutritional balance, and visual appeal. With customizable ingredients and straightforward preparation, it offers a reliable way to upgrade weeknight dinners or impress at gatherings. Add your own twist, and enjoy the fusion of steak and sesame noodles any time you crave a fresh, hearty, and satisfying meal.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a60384829/steak-with-sesame-noodle-salad-recipe/
- https://www.food.com/recipe/pioneer-womans-simple-sesame-noodles-427798
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10114/beef-noodle-salad-bowls/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9398/simple-sesame-noodles/
- https://www.eatyourbooks.com/library/recipes/3219506/seared-steak-with-sesame-noodle
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