The Ultimate Pittsburgh Salad

Wanna try a real Pittsburgh Salad? Golden fries, steak (or chipped ham!), and tangy vinaigrette – it's the ultimate taste of the 'Burgh! Get the easy recipe here. It is the BEST Salad For Pizza meal!

Pittsburgh Salad Recipe: The Ultimate Yinzer Meal!

Okay, let's get started.

Recipe Introduction: The Ultimate Pittsburgh Salad

Ever wondered if you could eat fries as part of a healthy meal? well, look no further, because i'm about to introduce you to the pittsburgh salad , a culinary masterpiece that throws all diet rules out the window! it's the salad recipe for potluck events, tailgates, or honestly, any day you want to treat yourself.

Pittsburgh Pride on a Plate

The pittsburgh salad isn't just a salad, it's an experience! originating from the 'burgh, this bad boy basically flips the script on traditional side salad recipes italian .

Think crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, red onion, cheese, a hard-boiled egg if you are feeling fancy, and your choice of grilled steak, or chicken and topped with.

..fries! it's not just about the salad for pizza either, it’s about the game day salad . it's perfect as one of your game day salads super bowl choices.

This is easy to make, about 40 minutes, and serves 4 hungry people.

Why You'll Obsess Over This Pittsburgh Creation

Honestly, it's comfort food disguised as health food. all the veggies balance out the fries, right? okay, maybe not, but it tastes amazing.

Make it one of your top super bowl salad ideas . also, who doesn't love cheese? and it's a great way to use up leftover fries if you are having a pizza and salad party ideas.

It’s an awesome addition to a salads with pizza night. it’s definitely one of the best sides for salad meals .

I remember the first time i had a pittsburgh salad . i was at a buddy's place during a steelers game day salad , and his grandma, bless her heart, made a mountain of it.

I’m not a local, and i was skeptical. i was so wrong.

Now, let's dive into what you'll need to recreate this Yinzer classic.

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Preparation time:

20 Mins
Cooking time:

20 Mins
Servings:
🍽️
4 servings

⚖️ Ingredients:

  • 1 pound flank steak, skirt steak, chicken breasts (approx. 4), or 1 pound chipped ham
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 ml)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch fries OR 1 bag (20oz/567g) frozen french fries
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (if making homemade fries)
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 cups mixed greens (about 8 oz/225g), washed and dried
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved (about 150g)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced (about 75g)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 100g)
  • 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced (optional, but common)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

🥄 Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Steak/Chicken/Chipped Ham: Marinate the steak/chicken (if using steak or chicken) or warm up the chipped ham.
  2. Cook the Steak/Chicken/Chipped Ham: Grill or pan-fry to desired doneness or cook until chipped ham is warmed through. Let rest, then slice thinly.
  3. Make the Fries: Fry the potatoes (homemade) or bake frozen fries according to package directions until golden brown and crispy. Season with salt.
  4. Make the Vinaigrette: Whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients in a small bowl.
  5. Assemble the Salad: Toss the mixed greens with half of the vinaigrette in a large bowl.
  6. Build the Pittsburgh Salad: Arrange the greens on a platter or individual plates. Top with tomatoes, red onion, cheese, egg (if using), steak/chicken/chipped ham, and French fries.
  7. Drizzle & Serve: Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the salad and serve immediately.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Ultimate Pittsburgh Salad

Alright, let's talk about what you need to make this killer pittsburgh salad . it's easier than navigating the paray during rush hour.

Honestly, this salad recipe for potluck is gonna be a crowd-pleaser.

Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific

Here’s the breakdown for four glorious servings. I'm giving you US and metric, because why not?

  • Steak/Chicken/Chipped Ham:

    • 1 pound (450g) flank steak, skirt steak, or 4 chicken breasts. Or 1 pound (450g) chipped ham. Quality steak is key! Look for good marbling.
    • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil.
    • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce.
    • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder.
    • 1/2 teaspoon (2 ml) black pepper.
    • Salt to taste
  • Fries: This is what makes it a Pittsburgh salad !

    • 2 large russet potatoes, or 1 bag (20oz/567g) frozen french fries.
    • Vegetable oil for frying (if using fresh potatoes).
    • Salt to taste.
  • Salad:

    • 8 cups (225g) mixed greens. Get a good spring mix, nice and fresh.
    • 1 cup (150g) grape tomatoes, halved.
    • 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, thinly sliced.
    • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese. Don't skimp on the good stuff!
    • 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced (optional).
  • Vinaigrette:

    • 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil.
    • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) red wine vinegar.
    • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard.
    • 1 clove garlic, minced.
    • Salt and pepper to taste.

Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up

The worcestershire sauce is essential to that savory tang, you know? for a side salad recipes italian twist, add a pinch of italian seasoning to the vinaigrette.

Want something for a game day salad super bowl ? a dash of cayenne pepper is perfect! for essential spice combinations, stick to salt, pepper, and garlic powder, you can't go wrong with the classics.

Essential Gadgets

You don't need a fancy kitchen. Just these:

  • Large skillet or grill pan.
  • Deep fryer or large pot.
  • Large salad bowl.
  • Whisk.

Don't have a deep fryer? A large pot works just fine, honestly. You can use a baking sheet if you're baking your frozen fries.

Remember, this pittsburgh salad is all about fun and deliciousness! you can even serve this as a salad for pizza or include as part of your pizza and salad party ideas .

You could also easily adapt this recipe to make excellent game day salads super bowl .

The Ultimate Pittsburgh Salad presentation

The Ultimate Pittsburgh Salad: A Yinzer's Delight

Oh my gosh, you guys! i’m so excited to share this pittsburgh salad recipe. seriously, if you haven't tried it, you are missing out.

It’s got everything: protein, carbs, veggies. it's basically a whole meal in one bowl. think of it as the ultimate comfort food pretending to be healthy.

I mean, fries on a salad? who wouldn’t love that? it's perfect with pizza and salad party ideas and a game day get together.

Whether you're looking for super bowl salad ideas or the best game day salads super bowl , this is for you!

Honestly, i remember the first time i had a real pittsburgh salad . it was at some greasy spoon diner near my aunt's house.

I thought, "fries on a salad? what is this?" but one bite, and i was hooked. now i make it all the time, and i'm gonna show you how to make it too!

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place, Yinz!

First things first, prep is key. get your mise en place sorted out. basically, chop all your veggies. slice up that red onion.

Halve those grape tomatoes. get your cheese ready to shred. oh, and most important, decide what you're going with for the protein: steak, chicken, or chipped ham.

This salad recipe for potluck is a real crowd-pleaser.

For this recipe, you need: 1 pound flank steak/chicken breasts/chipped ham, 8 cups mixed greens, 1 cup grape tomatoes, 1/2 cup red onion, 1 cup shredded cheddar, and 1 hard-boiled egg (optional).

Remember, essential mise en place is key!

Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step, Dahntahn Style

Alright, here we go.

  1. Marinate or Warm-Up: If you are doing steak or chicken, marinate it in 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. If you're going chipped ham, just set it aside.
  2. Cook the Protein: Grill or pan-fry your steak/chicken to your liking. If using chipped ham, warm it in a pan until its hot and slightly crispy. Then, let it rest for a few minutes, and slice it thinly.
  3. Fries Time: Fry the potatoes in vegetable oil or, for frozen fries, bake according to package directions until golden brown and crispy. Season with salt.
  4. Vinaigrette Magic: Whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 clove minced garlic in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Salad Base: Toss the mixed greens with half of the vinaigrette in a large bowl.
  6. Assemble the Masterpiece: Arrange the greens on plates or a platter. Top with tomatoes, red onion, cheese, egg (if using), and then pile on the steak/chicken/chipped ham and fries.
  7. Final Flourish: Drizzle the rest of the vinaigrette over the salad and serve it up immediately!

Pro Tips from a Burgh Native

Here's the lowdown from someone who knows her pittsburgh salad . first, don’t overdress it. nobody likes a soggy salad, especially with those lovely fries! and, honestly, get some good cheese, it makes all the difference.

You can serve a side salad recipes italian style, but honestly, it doesn't need it.

If you are making it for a game day salad , you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and just assemble right before serving.

Hot fries are key too! hot fries are key

And there you have it. the ultimate pittsburgh salad ! i hope you love it as much as i do.

This is a great option for sides for salad meals , too. now go forth and enjoy this yinzer classic!

Alright, yinz ready to dive deeper into this Pittsburgh Salad masterpiece? We ain't just slapping fries on lettuce here, we're building an experience. So, let's talk about how to make it shine!

Recipe Notes

So, you've got the basics down, but let's finesse it a bit, aye? You know, make it your Pittsburgh Salad . We'll go over plating, storage, and how to tweak this classic.

Serving Suggestions: From the Kitchen to the 'Burgh

Listen, presentation is everything. honestly, this pittsburgh salad already looks amazing. that being said, a little effort goes a long way.

Plating and presentation? i like to build this bad boy high. first, the greens, then artfully arrange the tomatoes and onions.

Next, drape that steak or chicken (or chipped ham!) so it cascades. finally, crown it with a generous pile of golden fries.

Boom. restaurant-worthy! think about sides for salad meals , like a simple coleslaw, to round out the meal.

As for complementary sides , think simple. this salad is a meal itself! maybe some crusty bread, toasted with garlic butter? chef's kiss .

And for beverages, i'm partial to a good old iron city beer – can't get more pittsburgh than that! but iced tea or lemonade works too.

This salad is a true star! Try some side salad recipes italian style, if you wanna spice it up

Storage Tips: Keeping the 'Burgh Alive

Let's be real, you might have leftovers (though I doubt it!).

Refrigeration guidelines are pretty straightforward. store the salad and vinaigrette separately to prevent the greens from getting soggy. the steak/chicken/chipped ham and fries should also be stored separately.

Everything will last 2-3 days in the fridge.

Freezing options? Not really recommended for the entire salad. Cooked steak/chicken/chipped ham can be frozen, but the fries will get sad and the lettuce? Forget about it.

Reheating instructions: Gently reheat the steak/chicken/chipped ham in a skillet. Reheat the fries in the oven or air fryer to re-crisp them. Assemble the salad fresh.

Variations: Yinz Like it Different?

Okay, maybe you're not feeling the full-on Pittsburgh experience. I get it. Let's tweak it! We’ll look at adapting this salad recipe for potluck events.

Got dietary restrictions? no worries! dietary adaptations are simple. vegetarian? swap the meat for grilled halloumi cheese or black beans seasoned with taco seasoning.

Low-carb? skip the fries and add extra veggies or some crispy bacon bits (because bacon makes everything better, am i right?).

What about seasonal ingredient swaps ? in the summer, use fresh, local tomatoes and corn. in the fall, add roasted butternut squash or apples.

The game day salad super bowl edition would be perfect with spicy chicken tenders instead of steak, adding a real kick.

Nutrition Basics: Fuel Up, Yinzer Style

Let's talk about the good stuff. simplified nutrition information (per serving, with steak and homemade fries - estimate only ): calories: 700-800; protein: 35-45g; fat: 40-50g; carbohydrates: 50-60g; fiber: 5-7g; sugar: 5-7g; sodium: varies widely.

This super bowl salad ideas fits well with your nutrition goals.

The key health benefits ? you're getting a good dose of protein, some healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the veggies.

Plus, let's be honest, it's good for the soul. the game day salads super bowl party is going to be a hit!

So there you have it! this pittsburgh salad is more than just a recipe, it's a cultural experience, perfect alongside salads with pizza or at a pizza and salad party ideas party.

Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. now get in the kitchen and start cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a Pittsburgh Salad? Is it just fries on a salad?!

Well, you're not wrong! A Pittsburgh Salad is a unique dish, a hearty salad topped with grilled meat (steak, chicken, or even chipped ham) and, most importantly, French fries. Think of it as the ultimate comfort food collision – a salad that doesn't skimp on the good stuff. It’s a local favorite, as beloved as pierogies and the Steelers!

Can I make the Pittsburgh Salad ahead of time, or will it get soggy?

Some components can be prepped in advance, but assembly is best done right before serving. You can marinate the steak/chicken, chop the veggies, and make the vinaigrette earlier in the day. Frying the fries right before serving is key to keeping them crispy. Nobody wants a soggy chip butty and no one wants soggy fries on their salad either. If you must prep the fries, reheat them in a hot oven to crisp them up before adding to the salad.

What are some variations I can try to spice up my Pittsburgh Salad?

Get creative! For a vegetarian version, try grilled halloumi or black beans. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the vinaigrette adds a kick. For a low-carb option, skip the fries and add bacon bits or extra veggies, think of it like a low-carb salad but better! Experiment with different cheeses (provolone is a great Pittsburgh choice) and dressings, too.

I can't find chipped ham. What can I substitute in this Pittsburgh salad recipe?

No chipped ham? Don't fret! Grilled steak or chicken are excellent alternatives. You can also use pulled pork, seasoned tofu (for a vegetarian option), or even sliced kielbasa if you're feeling adventurous. If you're in a real pinch, regular deli ham, cut into small pieces, will work in a pinch. Just remember, the fries are non-negotiable!

How should I store leftover Pittsburgh Salad, assuming there are any leftovers?

Store the components separately to prevent sogginess. Keep the dressed greens, fries, and protein in separate containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the protein and fries before assembling the salad. It's best to eat leftovers within 1-2 days. Let's be honest, though, a proper Pittsburgh Salad is usually devoured in one sitting!

Is Pittsburgh Salad healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

While delicious, the traditional Pittsburgh Salad isn't exactly a health food champion. The fries, cheese, and dressing add calories and fat. To make it healthier, use baked fries, a lighter vinaigrette, and lean protein. Load up on the greens and vegetables. As with any dish, moderation is key, and it's all about balance. Think of it as a mostly healthy salad with a fun, indulgent twist!


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