This Mediterranean Steak Bowl Recipe is an absolute delight that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s packed with flavor and offers a nourishing blend of hearty grains, tender steak, and bright veggies that make every bite a joy. Trust me, when you serve this vibrant bowl, it feels like a warm hug at the dinner table.
Growing up, family dinners were always filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. The aroma of grilled meats wafting from the kitchen would draw everyone near, eager for a taste. This recipe is reminiscent of those evening, the tender steak sizzling in a hot skillet, infused with the bright notes of lemon and herbs. As you layer the grains and toppings into each bowl, you can almost hear my kids debating which colorful ingredient to dive into first. It’s a comforting family meal that brings us together, and I can’t wait for you to experience it.
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Mediterranean Steak Bowl
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo, Keto, Gluten-Free
Description
A vibrant Mediterranean Steak Bowl packed with flavor, hearty grains, tender steak, and fresh veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak (about 1-inch thick)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked grains (brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup roasted chickpeas (optional for paleo or keto)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup kalamata olives (pitted)
- ⅓ cup feta cheese (crumbled; optional for dairy-free)
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley or dill, chopped)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain; coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
- ½ cucumber (grated, squeezed dry)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey (omit for Whole30)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Coat the sirloin steak in this marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
- Make the Tzatziki: In another bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt), grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix well and chill it in the fridge while you continue with the recipe.
- Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the marinated steak for 4–5 minutes on each side until you reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, let it rest for about 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of your cooked grains in a bowl. Layer in sliced steak, roasted chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Top it all with a generous drizzle of tzatziki and vinaigrette.
Notes
Let the steak rest before slicing for better juiciness. Customize your bowl with your favorite veggies.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mediterranean Steak Bowl isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that satisfies all the senses. Picture yourself enjoying the smoky flavor of the grilled sirloin, paired with creamy tzatziki and a fresh vinaigrette that dances on your palate. The colorful medley of vegetables adds a crisp texture while the nutrients from the grains provide just the right amount of heartiness. Each bowl is customizable, meaning that even the pickiest eaters in your family will find something to love. Plus, it’s healthy without sacrificing any flavor — a win-win!
Let’s Cook It Together
Creating this Mediterranean Steak Bowl is simpler than you might think, and the result is nothing short of mouthwatering. Gather your ingredients, embrace the chopping and mixing, and let the aromas fill your kitchen. Cooking together as a family can be a memorable experience, and this dish allows everyone to participate in their own way.
Gather These Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak (about 1-inch thick)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked grains (brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup roasted chickpeas (optional for paleo or keto)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup kalamata olives (pitted)
- ⅓ cup feta cheese (crumbled; optional for dairy-free)
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley or dill, chopped)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain; coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
- ½ cucumber (grated, squeezed dry)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey (omit for Whole30)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Coat the sirloin steak in this marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
Make the Tzatziki: In another bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt), grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix well and chill it in the fridge while you continue with the recipe.
Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the marinated steak for 4–5 minutes on each side until you reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, let it rest for about 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of your cooked grains in a bowl. Layer in sliced steak, roasted chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Top it all with a generous drizzle of tzatziki and vinaigrette.
Nutrition Values
- Serving size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full longer without feeling heavy.
Perfect Pairings for This Dish
When serving your Mediterranean Steak Bowl, consider a light salad with mixed greens dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar. A chilled glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can add a refreshing touch. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish embraces the spirit of togetherness.
Keeping It Fresh
To make meal prep easier, you can store individual components separately in airtight containers. The cooked steak can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The grains are best stored in the fridge as well. If you want to freeze leftovers, do so in a freezer-safe container and reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef Betty’s Secrets
- Let the Steak Rest: Always let your steak rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, making it juicier.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill elevate the dish significantly. Don’t skip them!
- Embrace Flavor: Feel free to adjust the vinaigrette and tzatziki ingredients according to your taste — a little extra lemon or garlic can go a long way.
- Customize Your Bowl: Add whatever veggies or toppings your family enjoys. Spinach, bell peppers, or even avocado can make a fantastic addition.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe makes for excellent meal prep. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste for the next day.
Creative Twists to Try
Feel free to experiment with the recipe! For a sweet twist, try adding grilled peaches or mango chunks. If you want a little more heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into your vinaigrette. For a more Asian-inspired bowl, swap the grains for sushi rice and the tzatziki with sesame dressing.
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked steak and grains separately. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers and consume within 2-3 months for the best flavor.
What’s the best substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or omit the cheese altogether. Nutritional yeast also adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How long will this stay fresh?
In the refrigerator, the assembled bowls will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you keep the components separate, everything will last a bit longer, making fresh meals easy and convenient throughout the week.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe scales beautifully! Just double the ingredients and follow the same cooking instructions for a hearty batch meal that’ll last you all week. Enjoy every delicious bite together as a family!