Name: Spicy Mongolian Beef Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: Olive oil; Rice vinegar; Reduced-sodium soy sauce; Sesame oil; Fresh ginger, minced; Garlic, minced; Sugar; Beef top sirloin steak, cut into strips; Crushed red pepper flakes; Mixed salad greens; Carrots, shredded; Cucumber, thinly sliced; Radishes, thinly sliced

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-Packed: The spicy Mongolian-style beef paired with fresh veggies creates a perfect balance of savory and heat.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to make in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Adjust the heat to your liking and switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand.
Protein-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef, this salad is both satisfying and filling.
Versatile: It can be served as a main dish or as a flavorful side to accompany other meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dressing:

Olive oil
Rice vinegar
Reduced-sodium soy sauce
Sesame oil
Fresh ginger, minced
Garlic, minced
Sugar

For the Beef:

Reduced-sodium soy sauce
Garlic, minced
Sugar
Crushed red pepper flakes
Sesame oil
Beef top sirloin steak, cut into strips
Olive oil

For the Salad:

Mixed salad greens
Carrots, shredded
Cucumber, thinly sliced
Radishes, thinly sliced

Directions

Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and sugar until smooth.
Marinate the Beef: In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic, sugar, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil. Add the beef strips, toss to coat, and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and radishes.
Serve: Divide the salad among plates, top with the cooked beef, and drizzle with the dressing. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or edamame for added crunch and nutrition.
Noodles: For a more filling meal, serve the salad over rice noodles or soba noodles.
Nuts: Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for a crunchy finish.
More Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chilies to increase the spice level.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover beef and salad in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave, and assemble the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables fresh.

FAQs

Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What cut of beef is best for this salad?

Top sirloin or flank steak works well due to its tenderness and flavor, but other cuts can also be used.

How do I make this salad spicier?

Simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade or add sliced fresh chilies for more heat.

Can I use pre-washed salad greens?

Yes, pre-washed mixed greens can save you time and make the preparation even quicker.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute.

Can I make this salad in advance?

You can prep the ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and serve the salad right before eating for the freshest texture.

How long should I marinate the beef?

Marinate the beef for at least 10 minutes, but for deeper flavor, you can marinate for up to 30 minutes.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or grilled vegetables.

Can I add noodles to the salad?

Yes, adding cooked noodles like soba or rice noodles will make it a more filling meal.

Can I use a different protein?

You can substitute beef with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.

Conclusion

Spicy Mongolian Beef Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that delivers bold flavors and fresh ingredients in every bite. The tender beef combined with the crunch of the vegetables and the spicy dressing makes for a meal that’s both exciting and nourishing. It’s a versatile, quick-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite.