EASY MEDITERRANEAN STEAK BOWL

Imagine tender, perfectly seared steak nestled on a bed of fluffy quinoa, bursting with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean – sun-ripened tomatoes, briny olives, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. This Mediterranean Steak Bowl is a flavor explosion that’s both healthy and satisfying, and I promise, it’s easier to make than you think!

Let’s Gather Our Goodies: The Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions: Building Your Bowl of Bliss

Get Started: Prep the Ingredients

1. First, cook your quinoa according to the package directions. This usually involves rinsing the quinoa, then simmering it in water or broth for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, chop all your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, halve the olives, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh parsley too! Having everything prepped and ready to go makes assembling the bowls a breeze.

Marinate and Sear the Steak

3. In a medium bowl, combine the steak cubes with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Let the steak marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for more flavor. I know, waiting is hard, but it’s worth it!
4. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the steak – this is key for getting a good sear.
5. Add the steak to the hot skillet in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. A meat thermometer is your best friend here! Remember, it will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before assembling the bowls. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Whip Up the Lemon-Herb Dressing

7. While the steak is resting, whisk together all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl: olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. More lemon juice for extra tang? Go for it!

Assemble Your Masterpiece: The Mediterranean Steak Bowl

8. Now for the fun part! Divide the cooked quinoa among bowls.
9. Top with the seared steak, cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
10. Drizzle generously with the lemon-herb dressing.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy Mediterranean Steak Bowl!

Pro Tips & Variations for the Perfect Bowl

Steak Selection: Choosing the Right Cut

While sirloin is a great option for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of steak, such as flank steak or ribeye. Flank steak should be thinly sliced against the grain after cooking. Ribeye will be more tender and flavorful due to its higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking.

Quinoa Alternatives: Exploring Other Grains

Not a fan of quinoa? No problem! You can easily substitute it with other grains like brown rice, couscous, or even farro. Each grain will bring a slightly different texture and flavor to the bowl, so experiment and find your favorite!

Vegetable Variations: Customize Your Bowl

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s highly customizable. Feel free to add or substitute any of the vegetables based on your preferences. Some great additions include bell peppers, artichoke hearts, spinach, or roasted eggplant. Get creative and make it your own!

Dressing Tweaks: Flavor Boosters

Want to add a little extra zing to your dressing? Try adding a pinch of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of honey for a touch of sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or mint, for a unique flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Magic: Meal Prep Friendly

This Mediterranean Steak Bowl is perfect for meal prepping! You can cook the quinoa and steak ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing as well. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls and enjoy. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe

Beyond the incredible flavor, this Mediterranean Steak Bowl is a winner because it’s:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Customizable: Adaptable to your dietary needs and preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights and on-the-go lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of steak, you can substitute it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How long does the dressing last in the refrigerator?

The lemon-herb dressing will last for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze the cooked steak?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked steak. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free quinoa.

Enjoy Your Mediterranean Adventure!

So there you have it – a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy Mediterranean Steak Bowl that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking, my friend!

Easy Mediterranean Steak Bowl

This Mediterranean Steak Bowl features tender seared steak served over fluffy quinoa with sun-ripened tomatoes, briny olives, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. It’s a healthy and satisfying flavor explosion that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

• cutting board
• knife
• Medium bowl
• Large skillet or grill pan
• small bowl
• whisk
• Meat thermometer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Method

 

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Chop cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a medium bowl, combine steak cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Add steak to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
6. Remove steak from skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Divide cooked quinoa among bowls.
9. Top with seared steak, cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
10. Drizzle generously with lemon-herb dressing.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Sirloin steak can be substituted with flank steak or ribeye. Adjust cooking time accordingly. Quinoa can be substituted with brown rice, couscous, or farro. Customize the bowl with bell peppers, artichoke hearts, spinach, or roasted eggplant. For extra zing to the dressing, add a pinch of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of honey. The lemon-herb dressing will last for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cooked steak can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.