Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further! This Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is one of my all-time favorites. The juicy skirt steak, marinated in a zesty lemon-olive oil vinaigrette, pairs perfectly with a vibrant pearl couscous salad filled with fresh herbs and crunchy cucumber. It’s a dish that brings smiles around the dinner table, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple and quick it is to prepare. You can have this delightful meal ready in just under an hour, making it perfect for those nights when you want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try it, it’ll find its way into your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of grilled steak and colorful salad is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the steak ahead of time or prepare the couscous salad early for an even easier dinner experience.
• Vibrant Flavors: Fresh herbs and zesty lemon make every bite burst with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe is all about fresh flavors and easy preparation. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, plus more for serving
• 1 tbsp honey
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 3/4 tsp kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Steak & Salad

• 1 1/2 lbs skirt steak
• Flaky sea salt (optional)
• 1 cup dry Israeli couscous
• 1 mini cucumber, chopped
• 4 scallions, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta (or non-dairy alternative)

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand! Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try chicken breast or tofu instead of skirt steak for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
• Change up the grains: Substitute quinoa or farro for couscous if you prefer something different.
• Herb swap: Use basil or mint instead of dill and parsley for a fresh new flavor profile.

How to Make Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade infuses the skirt steak with incredible flavor. Place the steak in a shallow dish and pour over half of this mixture. Be sure to coat it well! Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes or up to two hours in the fridge. Allowing it to come to room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Couscous Salad

While your steak is marinating, cook the Israeli couscous according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain it into a colander and rinse under cold water until fully cooled. This step prevents clumping and helps keep each grain separate. Toss cooled couscous with the remaining marinade along with cucumber, scallions, dill, parsley, and feta (or your non-dairy alternative). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve!

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450°-500° F). Grill the marinated skirt steak for about 3-4 minutes per side or until it’s cooked to your liking—medium rare works beautifully! Letting the steak rest for about 10 minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness. Slice against the grain for easy serving.

Now sprinkle some flaky sea salt over your perfectly grilled steak and serve it alongside that vibrant couscous salad with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Getting the perfect grilled skirt steak and couscous salad is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time!

• Marinate Wisely: Allowing the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness, making each bite juicy and mouthwatering.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Investing in a meat thermometer ensures that your steak is cooked to perfection. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare — it makes a world of difference!

• Let it Rest: After grilling, letting the steak rest for 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every slice is succulent and full of flavor.

• Chill Your Couscous: Allowing the couscous salad to chill not only melds the flavors together but also serves as a refreshing contrast to the warm steak.

• Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to swap out or add herbs based on your personal preference! Fresh basil or mint can give your couscous a delightful twist.

How to Serve Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Serving this dish can be just as fun as preparing it! With vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, you’ll want to present it beautifully on your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and enhances the flavors of both the steak and salad.
• Extra dill or parsley: Sprinkling chopped herbs on top not only looks pretty but also intensifies the fresh herbaceous notes of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled alongside your steak adds color and nutrition while complementing its smoky flavor.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs perfectly, providing crispness that balances the richness of the steak.
• Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned crispy roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that’s always a crowd-pleaser. You can toss them in olive oil and herbs for extra flavor!
• Hummus with Pita Chips: A bowl of creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for an excellent appetizer before diving into your main meal.

Enjoy this delightful combination at your next summer gathering! Each bite will bring smiles and satisfied taste buds around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep! By preparing the steak and couscous salad in advance, you can enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the grilled skirt steak to cool completely before storing.
• Place the steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Store the couscous salad separately in another airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled skirt steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Couscous salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

• Thaw the skirt steak overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on a grill or in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Couscous salad can be served cold straight from the fridge or at room temperature; no reheating needed!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use other cuts of steak for the Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad?

Absolutely! While skirt steak is tender and flavorful, you can substitute it with flank steak or sirloin if preferred.

What should I serve with Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a light green salad. Feel free to get creative!

How long can I marinate the skirt steak?

For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Both the grilled skirt steak and couscous salad can be made ahead, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad! It’s one of those recipes that brings summer vibes right to your table—juicy steak paired with a refreshing couscous salad makes every bite special. Enjoy your culinary adventure and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations you try! Happy cooking!