If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, this Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy flank steak marinated with garlic, lemon, and herbs, served atop fluffy jasmine rice and topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy feta, and creamy tzatziki. Each bite bursts with a perfect harmony of textures and Mediterranean flavors, making it a delightful dish for family dinners or casual gatherings. This Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe is not only stunning on the plate but also simple to prepare, offering a wholesome, nutrient-packed meal in under an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but play a crucial role in creating a luscious, balanced meal. Each component adds a unique flavor, texture, or color that makes these bowls so irresistible and authentic.
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak: The star of the dish, providing hearty, meaty flavor and tender texture when cooked right.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided: Adds richness and helps to sear the steak beautifully while also giving depth to the marinade.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Boosts savory aroma and flavor, infusing the steak with classic Mediterranean notes.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Offers brightness and a refreshing tang, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A traditional herb that enhances the authentic taste with its earthy, slightly bitter flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle woodsy and minty undertone, complementing the oregano perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and layers complexity into the seasoning.
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice or basmati rice: Creates the perfect fluffy, fragrant base to soak up all the flavors.
- 2 cups water or broth: Cooks the rice to tender perfection; broth adds extra depth.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color for freshness.
- 1 cup cucumber diced: Adds crispness and a cool contrast to the warm steak and rice.
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced: Brings sharpness and a mild pungency, balancing rich elements in the bowl.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives sliced: Offers briny, salty flavor that’s signature in Mediterranean dishes.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Tangy and creamy, adding delightful texture and richness.
- 1/4 cup hummus: Creams up the bowl with a smooth, nutty touch.
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce: Cool, garlicky yogurt sauce that brightens each bite.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Finishing herb that adds a burst of freshness and color.
How to Make Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the steak
Begin by creating a simple yet flavor-packed marinade by mixing 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the flank steak, ensuring every inch is coated with those fragrant herbs and tangy lemon juice. Let the steak marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or for a deeper flavor, up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with the signature flavors of the Mediterranean.
Step 2: Cook the rice
While your steak is soaking up those beautiful flavors, rinse your choice of rice—jasmine or basmati—to remove excess starch. Combine the rice with 2 cups of water or broth in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Remove it from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This perfectly cooked rice will be the hearty foundation for your bowl.
Step 3: Sear the steak
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the marinated flank steak in the pan. Cook for approximately 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your steak and your preferred level of doneness. As the steak sears, the herbs and garlic caramelize, creating a savory crust that locks in juicy flavor. Once done, transfer the steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 10 minutes—this helps keep those delicious juices locked inside when you slice it.
Step 4: Slice and assemble
After resting, slice the flank steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. To assemble your Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe, distribute the fluffy rice evenly into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the beautifully sliced steak and layer on the fresh cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Finally, add a generous spoonful of creamy hummus and refreshing tzatziki on the side. Garnish with the bright, chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Your bowl is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. A simple sprinkling of fresh parsley, a dusting of sumac, or an extra drizzle of zesty lemon juice can brighten the flavors. You might also consider a few fresh mint leaves or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. These final touches personalize the bowl and make the presentation pop.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with some light sides. Consider a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar or a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to complement the hearty steak and rice. A basket of warm pita bread also fits perfectly if you want to scoop up every bit of hummus and tzatziki.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, serve the Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe in colorful bowls or on platter-style boards with small bowls of each topping, allowing guests to build their own bowls. You could also wrap the ingredients in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb “bowl” experience or layer the components in mason jars for an Instagram-worthy meal prep option that keeps flavors fresh and separated until served.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mediterranean Steak Bowls are a fantastic next-day meal. Store the steak, rice, and fresh toppings separately in airtight containers to preserve their individual textures and flavors. The hummus and tzatziki keep best refrigerated in small containers. Keeping components separate also prevents sogginess and lets you easily reassemble a fresh bowl later.
Freezing
While cooked steak and rice freeze well, the fresh vegetables, olives, and cheeses do not. If you want to freeze components, store only the cooked meat and rice in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding fresh toppings when ready to eat.
Reheating
Reheat steak and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating the vegetables and sauces; instead, add those fresh when serving to retain their crispness and bright flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture, you can also use skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and check that your hummus and tzatziki are gluten-free products.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To make it vegetarian or vegan, skip the steak and feta cheese. Substitute with grilled vegetables, tofu or tempeh, and use vegan hummus and tzatziki alternatives made from plant-based yogurt.
What other grains can I use instead of rice?
You can swap the rice for quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb and nutrient-dense option, all of which pair wonderfully with Mediterranean flavors.
How long does the marinade time impact flavor?
The marinade adds more depth the longer it soaks in, but even 20 minutes at room temperature imparts a nice garlic-herb punch. For the best tenderizing and flavor, aim for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a bowl that brings bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and satisfying textures all together in a single plate—this Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe absolutely hits that mark. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy, colorful meal that feels special yet is simple enough to make any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen!
Print
Mediterranean Steak Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Mediterranean Steak Bowls are a delicious and healthy dinner option featuring tender marinated flank steak, fluffy jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, and classic Mediterranean toppings like feta cheese, kalamata olives, and creamy hummus and tzatziki sauces. This easy stovetop recipe brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Steak and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Rice
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice or basmati rice
- 2 cups water or broth
Toppings and Garnishes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup hummus
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the flank steak. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator to develop rich, vibrant flavors.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Cook the Steak: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated flank steak and cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your preferred doneness level. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes to retain its juices.
- Slice the Steak: Carefully slice the rested steak thinly against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced steak, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Add a spoonful of hummus and tzatziki sauce to each bowl for creaminess and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the assembled bowls for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant Mediterranean Steak Bowls.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of sumac just before serving.
- Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Grill the steak instead of pan-searing to impart a smoky flavor.
