Mediterranean Steak Bowl is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender, seasoned steak with fresh, vibrant Mediterranean ingredients. This bowl starts with a base of fluffy rice, quinoa, or mixed greens, topped with juicy, perfectly cooked steak slices. It’s layered with a colorful array of toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. A drizzle of tzatziki sauce or lemon-herb vinaigrette ties all the flavors together, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing.
I first made a Mediterranean Steak Bowl when I wanted a wholesome, balanced meal with bold flavors, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of savory steak and crisp, fresh veggies makes it feel indulgent yet light. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can add hummus, roasted vegetables, or even swap the steak for grilled chicken or falafel. It’s perfect for meal prep or an easy, impressive weeknight dinner!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Meal prep
- Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts
- Protein-packed meals
- Busy schedules
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Mediterranean Steak Bowl will become your go-to meal:
- Bold Mediterranean Flavors: A blend of spices and tangy tzatziki brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your bowl.
- Juicy and Tender Steak: The steak is perfectly grilled, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
- Crisp Veggies: Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions add crunch and brightness to every bite.
- Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: This cool and refreshing sauce ties all the flavors together for a balanced meal.
- Customizable Base: Choose between rice, quinoa, or even couscous as your base for versatility.
- Packed with Protein: The steak is a great source of protein to keep you full and energized throughout the day.
- Healthy and Wholesome: A well-balanced meal with plenty of veggies and healthy fats.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it in bulk and enjoy a quick, flavorful meal all week long.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Gluten-Free Option: Make it gluten-free by swapping out the base with quinoa or a gluten-free grain.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 32g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 22g
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
The Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cucumber, sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
- Flank Steak or Sirloin: These cuts of steak are tender and absorb the seasoning beautifully.
- Greek Yogurt: Provides the creamy base for tzatziki and adds a tangy richness.
- Fresh Vegetables: Crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and red onions give the bowl freshness and crunch.
- Kalamata Olives: These olives add a salty brininess that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Steak:
- Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss the steak slices in the marinade and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Cook the Steak: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the steak slices for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Prepare Cucumber: Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel.
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, and garlic. Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Bowl:
- Prepare the Base: Spoon a serving of rice, quinoa, or couscous into each bowl.
- Add Vegetables: Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
- Add Steak: Place sliced steak over the vegetables in each bowl.
- Drizzle Sauce: Spoon tzatziki sauce over the steak and vegetables.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Mediterranean Steak Bowl:
- For Lunch or Dinner: Serve as a hearty meal any time of day.
- With Pita Bread: Pair with warm pita for extra flavor and texture.
- For Meal Prep: Store individual bowls in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- With Hummus: Add a side of hummus for a creamy, Mediterranean dip.
- As a Salad: Serve the ingredients over a bed of greens for a lighter version.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for more Mediterranean flair.
- For a Party: Serve the ingredients buffet-style and let guests build their own bowls.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
- For a Grilled Version: Grill vegetables alongside the steak for a smoky flavor.
- With Pickled Red Onions: Add a tangy kick by topping with pickled onions.
Additional Tips
- Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest after grilling to retain its juices.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill adds a vibrant flavor to the tzatziki.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add or remove any toppings to suit your taste.
- Grill Vegetables: For an even smokier flavor, grill the vegetables alongside the steak.
- Make the Sauce Ahead: The tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance for convenience.
Recipe Variations
- Lamb Steak Bowl: Swap the flank steak for lamb for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
- Vegan Version: Replace steak with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
- Spicy Steak Bowl: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Avocado Addition: Top the bowl with sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Grilled Chicken Bowl: Use grilled chicken breast as an alternative to steak.
- Quinoa Base: Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed, gluten-free option.
- Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts make a delicious topping for added crunch.
- Cucumber Yogurt Sauce: Add a little extra cucumber to the tzatziki for a lighter, fresher sauce.
- Greek Dressing: Instead of tzatziki, top with a simple Greek vinaigrette.
- Mediterranean Veggie Bowl: Skip the meat entirely and load up on roasted veggies and hummus for a vegetarian version.
Special Equipment
- Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: For grilling the steak to perfection.
- Grater: For finely grating cucumber for the tzatziki.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the steak and vegetables.
- Serving Bowls: For assembling and serving the bowls.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the tzatziki sauce.
- Tongs: For handling the grilled steak and vegetables.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, sirloin or ribeye also work well for this recipe. - Can I make this bowl in advance?
Yes, prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble when ready to serve. - How long will the tzatziki last in the fridge?
The tzatziki will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I use a store-bought tzatziki?
Absolutely, for a quicker option, use a store-bought version of tzatziki. - Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes, quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative to rice. - How can I make this bowl spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the steak or tzatziki. - Can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to add roasted peppers, olives, or even a handful of arugula for extra greens. - Can I use a different protein?
Chicken, lamb, or even grilled shrimp are great substitutes for steak. - Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use tofu or tempeh as a protein replacement and opt for dairy-free tzatziki. - How do I keep the steak tender?
Marinate the steak for at least 10 minutes, and be sure to rest it after grilling to keep it juicy.
Conclusion
A Mediterranean Steak Bowl is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender, seasoned steak with fresh, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Served over a base of rice, quinoa, or greens, this bowl features juicy steak slices, crisp vegetables like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese. Finished with a drizzle of tzatziki or a tangy lemon vinaigrette, it’s a balanced, satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner and can be customized to suit your taste. Add toppings like roasted red peppers, hummus, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra layers of flavor. The steak can be grilled, pan-seared, or broiled to your preferred doneness, and the combination of fresh and savory ingredients makes every bite exciting and satisfying.
I can’t wait to see how your Mediterranean Steak Bowl turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your vibrant, delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!