Thai Beef Salad with Lime, Chilli, and Herbs

Why This Works for Intermittent Fasting

Thinly sliced sirloin delivers a powerful protein hit — roughly 38 grams per serving — without a gram of starch or added sugar. The lime-based dressing keeps it clean and insulin-stable, while the fresh herbs add brightness and digestive-supporting compounds. This is the kind of meal that satisfies quickly in a compressed eating window without leaving you heavy or sluggish.

Ingredients

For the beef:

• 350g sirloin steak (about 1.5 cm thick)
• 1 tsp coconut oil or ghee
• Sea salt and black pepper

For the salad:

• 80g rocket (arugula)
• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 small red pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 spring onions, sliced on the diagonal
• Large handful of fresh coriander leaves
• Large handful of fresh mint leaves
• 1 red chilli, deseeded and thinly sliced (adjust to taste)

For the dressing:

• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
• A few drops of liquid stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional, for balance)

Instructions

1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with kitchen paper. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper.

2. Heat a cast-iron or heavy-based pan over high heat until smoking. Add coconut oil. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove and rest on a board for 5 minutes.

3. While the steak rests, whisk together all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Taste and adjust — add more lime juice for sharpness, more fish sauce for depth.

4. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.

5. Arrange the rocket on two plates. Layer the cucumber, red pepper, and spring onions over the top.

6. Add the sliced steak over the salad.

7. Scatter the coriander, mint, and chilli over everything.

8. Spoon the dressing generously over both plates.

9. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Per Serving

Fasting Compatibility

Best for: 16:8, 18:6, and OMAD protocols. The high protein content supports muscle retention during fasting, while the absence of sugar or starch keeps insulin stable after eating. Ideal as the first meal after a 16+ hour fast — substantial without being heavy.

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• Steak salad with rocket, parmesan, and olive oil
• Seared tuna steak with sesame, ginger, and greens
• Chicken and vegetable stir-fry with tamari and ginger

This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice.