Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with our Mediterranean Steak Bowls! This vibrant dish is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that brings the Mediterranean coastline right to your kitchen table. Picture juicy, perfectly grilled flank steak paired with fluffy quinoa and a rainbow of fresh vegetables, each bite bursting with taste and health benefits. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat, creating the perfect environment for that gorgeous sear.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This aromatic blend is what will give your steak a wonderful, savory crust.
- Generously rub the spice mixture all over the flank steak, ensuring every inch is coated with those fragrant flavors.
- Place the steak on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. The aroma of grilling meat will fill your kitchen!
- While the steak cooks, prepare the quinoa by combining it with the vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
- After 15 minutes, remove the quinoa from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This resting period makes it fluffy and light, ready to soak up all those delicious toppings.
- Once cooked, slice the grilled steak against the grain into thin strips for optimal tenderness.
- To assemble your bowls, divide the fluffy quinoa among four serving bowls. Top each with slices of steak, followed by cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve each bowl with lemon wedges on the side for that refreshing zing!
Notes or Tips
For a more intense flavor, marinate the steak in the olive oil and spices for a few hours before cooking. You can also substitute the quinoa with couscous or bulgur if you prefer a different grain. Enjoy experimenting with more toppings like avocado or roasted bell peppers to create your perfect bowl!
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the steak is key to achieving the coveted char and juicy interior. If grilling isn’t an option, searing in a skillet works beautifully, too, just ensure to let it rest before slicing!
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the quinoa and grill the steak in advance. Just reheat before serving and assemble when ready.
What can I use as a vegetarian alternative for the steak? Grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu are fantastic substitutes that will still add a rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Steak Bowls are not only incredibly delicious but also a great way to enjoy a healthy meal packed with flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory beef will leave you wanting more. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, they are sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!