Steak Caesar Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing (No Mayo!)
A fresh, Caesar-style steak salad featuring crisp radishes, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy garlic breadcrumbs. Tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt Caesar dressing, this no-mayo, no-egg twist on the classic is perfect for late spring or early summer.
Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. When ready, pat it dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with salt.
Heat a carbon steel or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Add ghee or a neutral oil of your choice — it should shimmer in the pan. Carefully place the steak in the pan, releasing it away from you to avoid oil splatter. Gently press down on the steak for a few seconds to help it sear evenly.
Once the steak naturally releases and has a golden crust (about 3 minutes), flip it. Cook for another 3–4 minutes for medium-rare or 4–5 minutes for medium, depending on thickness.
In the last minute of cooking, add butter and optional smashed garlic cloves to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and continuously spoon the melted butter over the steak to baste.
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then slice against the grain. While the steak rests, prepare the Caesar dressing and garlic breadcrumbs.
Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped anchovy filets, olive oil, and salt. Whisk to combine.
Add the Dijon mustard, champagne vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan, and black pepper. Whisk again until well incorporated.
Add the Greek yogurt and whisk until smooth. Thin with a splash of water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
Garlic Breadcrumbs
Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the anchovy filet and stir until it melts into the oil. Add the smashed garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the panko and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Salad Assembly
Remove the lettuce leaves from the heads and chop to your desired size. Add to a large bowl with the chopped parsley and toss with as much of the Caesar dressing as desired. Plate the dressed lettuce on a large platter or divide between individual plates.
Top the lettuce with sliced cherry tomatoes and radishes. Finish with garlic breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano, and sliced steak. Serve immediately.