Salisbury steak is named after Dr. James H Salisbury, an American physician and early advocate of a low-carbohydrate diet for health reasons. He created Salisbury steak in the late 19th century as a high-protein dish for his patients. While it's named after him, the concept of minced meat patties predates the version Dr. James Salisbury popularized. Over time, the dish evolved into what we now know as Salisbury steak.