If you are craving a meal that perfectly balances smoky, juicy meat with fresh, zesty flavors and irresistible crunch, this Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet is so simple to prepare, featuring beautifully grilled steaks paired with a vibrant tomato salad and golden, crispy fries. Each component brings something unique to the table, creating a satisfying harmony of tastes and textures that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, quality ingredients that shine through once combined. Each element plays its role in delivering an unforgettable dining experience—from the tender, well-seasoned steak to the tangy, bright tomato salad and the satisfyingly crispy homemade fries.
- 2 ribeye or strip steaks (about 1 inch thick): Choose good quality cuts for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to coat steaks, it helps to lock in moisture and enhance the sear.
- 1 teaspoon salt: The essential seasoning that elevates every ingredient.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, warming heat that complements the meat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts a subtle, savory aroma to the steak.
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional): Offers a fragrant herbal touch that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries: The base for crispy, homemade French fries with great texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Helps fries achieve that golden crispiness during baking.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky flavor to the fries.
- Salt to taste: Essential for seasoning fries perfectly.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide juicy bursts of sweetness in the salad.
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp bite for balanced flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings richness and smoothness to the salad dressing.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Gives a pleasant acidity to brighten the salad.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that enlivens the tomato salad.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season the salad.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): Adds freshness and aromatic notes that beautifully finish the salad.
How to Make Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steaks
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat—this ensures you get those perfect grill marks and a delicious crust. Pat your steaks dry with paper towels, then rub each piece with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and if you’re using it, freshly chopped rosemary. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps the seasoning penetrate and guarantees even cooking.
Step 2: Grill the Steaks to Perfection
Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side for a juicy medium-rare finish. Adjust your timing slightly if you prefer your steak more or less done. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the grill and cover loosely with foil to let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes—this step locks in all the savory juices and keeps your steak tender.
Step 3: Bake the Crispy French Fries
While your steaks rest, fire up the oven to 425°F. Toss the peeled and cut potatoes with vegetable oil, paprika, and salt, making sure they’re evenly coated. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer for maximum crispiness. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to get them golden and perfectly crunchy all over.
Step 4: Mix the Vibrant Tomato Salad
In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together gently and allow the salad to marinate for 10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, fold in fresh basil leaves if you want a burst of herbal freshness that complements the richness of the steak.
Step 5: Plate and Enjoy
Arrange your grilled steak, a generous helping of tomato salad, and crispy French fries on each plate. This Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe creates a beautifully balanced plate that’s as visually pleasing as it is delicious.
How to Serve Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh basil or rosemary sprigs adds an elegant touch and fresh aroma to the plate. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the tomato salad also brings a delightful tangy-sweet finish that contrasts wonderfully with the savory steak and salty fries.
Side Dishes
If you want to expand your meal, consider serving a light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. These sides add color and freshness without overpowering the main flavors of the grilled steak, tomato salad, and fries.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try stacking the fries next to the steak or arranging tomato salad in a small bowl so it stays juicy and fresh. Alternatively, serve the whole dish family-style on a large platter to encourage sharing and a casual, warm dining atmosphere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover steak, tomato salad, and fries separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents moisture from making the fries soggy and helps keep the steak and salad fresh for up to 2 days.
Freezing
While the steak and tomato salad are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked fries if needed. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to freezer bags. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
Reheating
To bring leftover steak back to life, reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the oven covered with foil to avoid drying out. Re-crisp fries in a hot oven or air fryer to restore their crunch. Tomato salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed there.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye and strip steaks are perfect for their marbling and flavor, you can use sirloin or filet mignon depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking leaner cuts.
How can I make the fries crispier?
Using russet potatoes helps, but soaking the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking removes excess starch and improves crispiness. Also, make sure the fries are in a single layer with enough oil coating for even browning.
Can I prepare the tomato salad ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato salad actually tastes better after marinating for a bit, so you can make it a few hours in advance. Just add fresh basil leaves right before serving to keep them bright and flavorful.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
This delicious Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your paprika and other seasonings don’t contain added gluten. Always check labels just to be safe.
What’s the best way to check steak doneness if I don’t have a thermometer?
Use the finger test for doneness—pressing the steak lightly can help you gauge firmness: softer means rare, medium-firm for medium, and firm for well-done. Or cut into the steak and check the color inside.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe is one of those golden classics that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, fresh, and packed with flavor, perfect for impressing family or treating yourself on a cozy night. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a cherished go-to for your grill days. So fire up your grill, gather these simple ingredients, and enjoy the unbeatable joy of a homemade steak dinner done just right!
Print
Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and Crispy French Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic American meal features perfectly grilled ribeye or strip steaks paired with a fresh, tangy tomato salad and crispy homemade French fries. The steaks are seasoned with simple spices and grilled to medium-rare, while the fries are oven-baked to golden perfection with paprika for a smoky kick. The vibrant tomato salad, marinated with red onion, olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, provides a refreshing balance to the rich steak and fries. Ideal for a satisfying and balanced summer dinner for two.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 ribeye or strip steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
French Fries
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
Tomato Salad
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then rub them evenly with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and fresh rosemary if using. Allow the seasoned steaks to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Steaks: Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare doneness, adjusting time based on your preferred level. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the grill, loosely cover with foil, and let them rest for 5–10 minutes to retain juices.
- Prepare the French Fries: While steaks rest, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the peeled and cut potatoes with vegetable oil, paprika, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to ensure crispiness.
- Bake the Fries: Bake the fries in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to promote even browning. Remove when fries are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Make the Tomato Salad: In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the salad marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes. Just before serving, gently toss in fresh basil leaves if you have them.
- Plate and Serve: Serve each steak alongside a generous portion of tomato salad and a pile of hot, crispy French fries. Enjoy the delicious balance of smoky, savory steak with fresh salad and crunchy fries.
Notes
- For quicker and crispier fries, try cooking them in an air fryer instead of the oven.
- Frozen store-bought fries can be used for convenience—just follow package instructions.
- Drizzling a balsamic glaze over the tomato salad adds a sweet and tangy depth of flavor.
