Mediterranean Steak Bowl

This hearty Mediterranean steak bowl transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, nourishing meal that balances savory marinated steak with fresh vegetables and creamy accents. The recipe bridges casual weeknight dining with the flavors and textures of Mediterranean cuisine that have made this dish a staple in my kitchen rotation.

I discovered this bowl concept during a particularly busy season when I needed nutritious meals that didn't sacrifice flavor. My family now requests these bowls weekly, and I love how each family member personalizes their toppings while still enjoying the same core ingredients.

Ingredients

• Flank steak: Provides excellent flavor when marinated and cooks quickly for weeknight ease
• Coconut aminos: Offers a soy-free alternative with a touch of sweetness to the marinade
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and helps tenderize the steak
• Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy tangy dressing that ties all components together
• Hummus: Adds protein and creaminess look for a smooth variety or make your own
• Fresh vegetables: Bring color texture and nutrients choose the ripest available for best flavor
• Feta cheese: Provides a salty punch that complements the other Mediterranean flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Steak:

Combine grated garlic coconut aminos lemon juice balsamic vinegar and red pepper flakes in a large bowl to create a flavorful marinade. Submerge the flank steak completely turning several times to ensure full coverage. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour but ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration. The acids in the marinade will begin to break down the tough muscle fibers making your steak more tender while imparting rich flavor.

Cook the Perfect Steak:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat adding olive oil until it shimmers but does not smoke. Remove steak from marinade allowing excess to drip off and place it in the hot pan. Let it sear undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes developing a deep brown crust. Flip only once and cook the second side for another 4 to 5 minutes for medium rare doneness or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. The high heat creates a flavorful exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Rest and Slice:

Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for a full 10 minutes. This critical step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out when cut. After resting slice the steak thinly against the grain the cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers results in more tender bite sized pieces.

Prepare the Yogurt Dressing:

Whisk together Greek yogurt grated garlic salt and fresh lemon juice until completely smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed the dressing should be tangy with a hint of garlic. This creamy component balances the bold flavors of the marinated steak and provides moisture to the bowl.

Assemble Your Bowls:

Start with a base of chopped romaine lettuce dividing it among serving bowls. Add separate sections of hummus cucumber slices tomato wedges pickled red onions and sliced steak. Sprinkle feta cheese crumbles over the top and garnish with fresh parsley. Finish with a lemon wedge on the side for squeezing over the bowl just before eating.

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The marinade is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered that letting the steak marinate overnight transforms even less expensive cuts into tender, flavor-packed protein. My husband initially skeptical about flank steak now requests this specific preparation claiming it rivals much pricier restaurant versions.

Make Ahead Options

This Mediterranean bowl is ideal for meal preparation and planning. You can marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance, which actually improves flavor development. The yogurt dressing stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, though you may need to stir it before using if separation occurs. Chop vegetables in advance and store them in separate containers to maintain their texture and freshness. When ready to serve, simply cook the steak, slice it, and assemble your bowls with the prepared components for a quick nutritious meal that tastes freshly made.

Versatile Substitutions

The beauty of this Mediterranean bowl lies in its adaptability to different dietary needs and preferences. For a vegetarian version, replace the steak with grilled halloumi cheese or roasted chickpeas seasoned with the same marinade spices. Those avoiding dairy can omit the feta and substitute the yogurt dressing with tahini sauce thinned with lemon juice and water. Quinoa or brown rice makes an excellent addition for those wanting more substance, while cauliflower rice works perfectly for lower carb alternatives. If coconut aminos are unavailable, low sodium soy sauce mixed with a touch of maple syrup creates a similar flavor profile for the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Mediterranean bowls family style by arranging all components on a large platter, allowing everyone to build their own personalized bowl. This interactive approach works wonderfully for casual entertaining or family dinners. For a complete Mediterranean feast, pair with warm pita bread and additional sides like tabbouleh salad or roasted eggplant dip. During summer months, consider serving these bowls outdoors with chilled rosé wine or sparkling water infused with cucumber and mint. For a more substantial meal, add roasted seasoned potatoes or simple grain pilaf to the spread.

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This Mediterranean steak bowl combines ease with incredible flavor, making it a regular favorite in my household.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can substitute sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak for the flank steak. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as different cuts have varying thicknesses and cook at different rates.

→ What can I use instead of coconut aminos?

Soy sauce or tamari are excellent substitutes for coconut aminos, though they're saltier so you may want to use about 25% less. For a soy-free alternative, try a blend of broth, salt, and a touch of maple syrup.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Store components separately in airtight containers. The cooked steak will keep for 3-4 days, vegetables for 2-3 days, and the yogurt dressing for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For best results, assemble just before eating.

→ Is this meal prep friendly?

Absolutely! Prepare all components ahead of time and store separately. The steak can be marinated overnight, and all vegetables can be prepped in advance. Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt alternative. Skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free feta alternative made from tofu or nuts.

→ What can I serve with this bowl?

This Mediterranean bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you could serve it with warm pita bread, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for additional heartiness. A side of olives or stuffed grape leaves would also complement the flavors nicely.