Juicy, perfectly cooked steak paired with crisp, fresh vegetables makes Air Fryer Steak Salad Bowls a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The air fryer locks in the steak’s juices while giving it a beautiful sear, and when combined with crisp greens, roasted veggies, and a flavorful dressing, you get a salad that’s hearty, balanced, and full of flavor.
I love this recipe because it’s both healthy and indulgent. The steak provides rich, savory flavor, while the mix of fresh and roasted vegetables adds texture, crunch, and color. It’s a great way to enjoy a filling meal without feeling weighed down.
Why This Recipe Works
The air fryer cooks steak quickly and evenly, giving you a juicy center and nicely browned edges. Pairing it with a mix of fresh greens and roasted vegetables creates contrast in texture and flavor. A homemade vinaigrette ties everything together, adding tanginess that complements the rich, savory meat.
This bowl is versatile — swap veggies based on what’s in season or your personal favorites, and you can easily make it gluten-free or dairy-free.
Ingredients
For the steak
- 1 lb sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the salad bowls
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup roasted sweet potato cubes
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ avocado, sliced
- Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese
For the dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the steak dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 10–12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway. Adjust time for your preferred doneness.
- Remove steak and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Meanwhile, assemble the salad bowls with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, roasted sweet potatoes, red onion, and avocado.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad bowls.
- Top with sliced steak and sprinkle with optional cheese or seeds.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Steak
- Let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Slice against the grain for tender bites.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
Flavor Variations
- Add roasted or air-fried mushrooms and bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Swap balsamic vinaigrette for a spicy sriracha-lime dressing.
- Use arugula or spinach for a peppery green base.
Serving Ideas
Pair your steak salad bowls with warm crusty bread or pita on the side, or enjoy them as a complete one-bowl meal. They’re perfect for meal prep too — keep dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
These bowls also work well for casual dinner parties or family meals. Everyone can customize their own with their favorite toppings.
Storage and Reheating
Store steak slices separately from salad greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat steak gently in the air fryer or microwave. Assemble salad bowls fresh before serving to preserve crispness.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Steak Salad Bowls combine juicy, flavorful steak with fresh, crisp vegetables for a meal that’s both healthy and indulgent. The air fryer simplifies steak cooking, while the bowls allow for endless customization. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a quick lunch, this dish is satisfying, balanced, and packed with flavor.
