Last Updated on by Rohit the Great
I always say that steak doesn’t need to be unhealthy. In fact, red meat is exceptionally wholesome and exceptionally nutritious part in most people’s diets.
I am not going to dive into the whole argument about steak being bad for you… At this stage of my life I am not an expert in this field. I only know that grass-fed steak is so much better for our health and that’s why I live in Ireland (well, that’s only one reason).
Suggested: Why Grass-Fed Beef Is So Much Better For Our Health
Instead let me bring your attention to the side things we often eat with our steaks – be it at home or in a steakhouse.
But before that – did you know that marinating steak before cooking it is a great way to reduce the formation of dangerous mutogens, which appear as a result of high-heat cooking? So marinate and stay healthy!
Related: 5-Minute Intro To Marinating Steak So It’s Tender & Delicious
Top-10 Healthy Things To Eat With Steak
1. Broccoli.
Steamed broccoli with steak is like a tradition in many places. Perhaps it’s no coincidence, because broccoli seems to counteract toxic compounds which form during high heat cooking.
Simply steam it or, even easier and quicker, blanch in hot water for 2-3 minutes and you are good to go!
2. Cauliflower.
Same goes to cauliflower, which helps to prevent certain types of cancer (e.g. bladder, breast and colon). Thanks to its antioxidant-rich composition, it’s also a natural anti-inflammatory food.
See if you like it steamed, blanched, microwaved or mashed!
3. Bok choy.
This Chinese cabbage falls into the same category of cruciferous vegetables as the other two from above. Eat it with steak and the poisonous toxins are likely to be significantly negated.
Try it in side dishes and salads.
4. Red wine.
No doubt red wine is known to go well with red meat – it happens for a reason! Polyphenols, which are antioxidants present in red wine, also help to fight free radicals.
It might have a positive effect on glucose metabolism. That means that people with insulin resistance might find it quite handy.
Have a glass of red, polyphenol-rich, wine with steak. Remember moderation =D!
5. Garlic.
The favorite of many marinades and recipes. Of course, garlic is known for its superhero-like health benefits. It fights just about everything starting from a typical cold/flu and finishing with cancer and heart disease (and vampires).
See if you like marinades with garlic, sauté it or have it raw in your side dish.
Suggested: Steak Marinade Recipes For A Gorgeous Meal
6. Turmeric.
Use it in a marinade or in a side dish and you are on the way to health! Turmeric is a main spice in curry and it is also used for things like colds, bronchitis, heartburn and even Alzheimer’s and cancer.
7. Ginger.
You are probably aware of the fact that ginger helps with respiratory infections and sore throat. It also helps to reduce colon inflammation (which appears to be the precursor of colon cancer).
Interestingly, it contributes to the reduction of exercise-induced muscle pain too. So if you work out regularly, make sure to add ginger to your steak – great way to get quality protein and reduce inflammation. Also remember that ginger contributes to fat burning.
8. Rosemary.
Just like all the other ingredients in the list, rosemary is rich in antioxidants and helps to reduce inflammation. Carnosic acid, found in rosemary, has been shown to prevent the damage caused by free radicals in the brain.
Marinate your steak with it or add 1-2 rosemary sprigs during pan-searing for flavor and health benefits.
9. Olive oil.
A rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids, regular consumption of olive oil reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, inflammation and many other things, including depression.
Use it in marinades or as a dressing for salads (pick extra virgin for dressings).
10. Coffee.
Not surprisingly coffee is also on the list. It helps to prevent everything from diabetes to liver disease. A rich source of antioxidants, it may protect us from type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. It might also be good for the heart and reduce the risk of stroke.
I hope you found this list of healthy things to eat with steak quiet handy!
Now tell me – what other healthy ingredients do you use? What would you recommend? Use the comments section below.
Ready To Enjoy That Juicy Tender Steak Every Single Time?
1. Get the Best Steak. Cooking steak to perfection is only 50% of success!The other 50% come from great quality steak and I recommend you get those from here. Especially their grass-fed beef (they also have poultry, pork and loads of game!)