Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Introduction

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is one of those meals that feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. The juicy, tender skirt steak is marinated in a blend of savory ingredients, then grilled to smoky perfection. It pairs beautifully with the zesty couscous salad, made with bright lemon and fresh herbs, which offers a refreshing contrast to the rich steak. Together, this dish strikes the perfect balance between hearty and light, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners or special summer gatherings.

I first made this dish on a warm summer evening when I was craving something that felt both comforting and refreshing. The sizzle of the steak on the grill, combined with the tangy, herbaceous salad, instantly became a favorite in our household. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to pull together, yet it feels so impressive when served. The couscous salad adds a lightness that complements the steak perfectly, making it a full meal that doesn’t weigh you down.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can switch up the herbs in the couscous to suit your tastes, or even add a few extra veggies for a bit more crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for something to spice up your dinner routine, Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Outdoor barbecues and grilling
• Family dinners
• Fans of Mediterranean flavors
• Quick weeknight meals
• Healthy, hearty meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad will be your go-to recipe:

• Bold, Smoky Steak Flavor: The skirt steak is marinated and grilled to give a rich, smoky taste that’s irresistible.
• Bright, Refreshing Salad: The couscous salad is loaded with fresh herbs and citrus, making it a perfect counterbalance to the steak.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: The dish comes together in under an hour, making it great for busy nights.
• Nutrient-Dense Meal: This recipe provides a balance of protein, healthy carbs, and fresh vegetables.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for gatherings and impressing guests with minimal effort.
• Customizable: The couscous salad can be easily adapted with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Zesty Citrus Kick: The lemon adds a burst of brightness that elevates the entire dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Components can be made ahead of time and stored for easy assembly.
• Grill Lover’s Dream: Ideal for those who love the flavor that grilling brings to a meal.
• Full of Texture: The dish offers the chewiness of couscous, crunch of veggies, and tenderness of steak.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 15 minutes (optional)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 38g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Grilled Skirt Steak

• 1 ½ lbs skirt steak
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 ¼ cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Skirt Steak: Known for its flavor and tenderness when grilled correctly.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Adds a refreshing, zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Mint): Infuse the couscous with a burst of fresh, herbaceous taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

Marinate and Grill the Steak

1. Marinate the Steak: In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Add the skirt steak and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Grill the Steak: Place the marinated steak on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness.
4. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Prepare the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

5. Cook the Couscous: Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
6. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked couscous with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
7. Dress the Salad: Add lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.

Assemble and Serve

8. Plate the Dish: Arrange slices of the grilled skirt steak alongside a generous portion of the couscous salad.
9. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with extra lemon zest and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

How to Serve

Here are some great ways to serve Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

• With Pita Bread: Add a side of warm pita or flatbread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
• Drizzle of Tahini Sauce: A light tahini sauce drizzle adds extra flavor.
• Top with Feta: Crumbled feta cheese pairs well with the lemony couscous.
• Add a Side Salad: Serve with a side of arugula salad with a balsamic vinaigrette.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted zucchini or eggplant for added texture.
• With Grilled Halloumi: Slices of grilled halloumi cheese add a deliciously salty note.
• Serve Cold: The couscous salad can be served cold for a refreshing summer dish.
• Add a Creamy Dressing: A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki can enhance the flavors.
• Layer in Bowls: Layer the couscous and steak in a bowl for a convenient, modern presentation.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick.

Additional Tips

• Marinate the Steak: For the best flavor, marinate the skirt steak for at least 30 minutes to allow the herbs and spices to penetrate the meat.
• Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to high heat to get a good sear on the steak, locking in the juices and flavors.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes into the couscous salad for added texture and nutrition.
• Season Generously: Season both the steak and the couscous salad well with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Herbs for Flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil elevate the couscous salad with a burst of brightness and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add extra lemon zest to the couscous salad for an intensified citrusy aroma and taste.
• Serve with a Sauce: Pair the grilled skirt steak with a chimichurri or garlic butter sauce for an additional layer of richness.
• Balance the Dressing: Adjust the dressing for the couscous salad with more lemon juice or olive oil if needed to achieve the desired tanginess.
• Grill the Steak to Preference: Skirt steak cooks quickly; for medium-rare, aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, adjusting for your preferred doneness.
• Chill the Salad: Make the couscous salad ahead of time and chill it for a bit before serving; the flavors will meld beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Try these 10 variations for Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

• Swap Skirt Steak for Flank Steak: For a leaner cut with a similar flavor and texture, try flank steak instead of skirt steak.
• Use Quinoa Instead of Couscous: Substitute couscous with quinoa for a gluten-free option while still keeping a light, fluffy texture.
• Add Grilled Vegetables: Include grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant in the salad for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the fresh herbs in the salad.
• Marinate the Steak in Balsamic Vinegar: Give the skirt steak a richer flavor by marinating it in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and herbs before grilling.
• Try a Spicy Couscous Salad: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the couscous salad for a spicy kick that pairs well with the savory steak.
• Incorporate Nuts or Seeds: Add toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds to the couscous salad for a crunchy contrast to the tender steak.
• Top with Avocado: Sliced avocado on top of the salad or steak enhances the dish with a creamy texture and extra flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The steak can be frozen for up to 2 months. The couscous salad is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat the steak gently in a pan or microwave, covered, to retain moisture.

Special Equipment

1. Grill or Grill Pan: For cooking the steak to perfection.
2. Mixing Bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
3. Tongs: For flipping the steak on the grill.
4. Saucepan: To cook the couscous.
5. Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables and slicing the steak.
6. Cutting Board: For safe preparation of ingredients.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
8. Zester or Grater: For zesting the lemon.
9. Serving Platter: To beautifully present the dish.
10. Salad Tongs: For serving the couscous salad.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use another cut of steak? Yes, flank steak or hanger steak can also be used.
2. What can I use instead of couscous? Quinoa or orzo pasta are good alternatives.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms.
4. How do I keep steak tender? Don’t overcook it and always slice against the grain.
5. What can I add for more protein? Chickpeas or grilled chicken can be added to the salad.
6. Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
7. Is marination necessary? While not required, marination enhances the flavor of the steak.
8. Can I grill indoors? Yes, a grill pan works well for indoor grilling.
9. Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, the steak can be marinated and the salad prepared a day ahead.
10. How do I make it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the steak marinade or red pepper flakes to the salad.

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Conclusion

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the smoky richness of grilled steak paired with the zesty, herb-filled couscous salad, this dish creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor barbecue or enjoying a unique weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

I can’t wait to hear how your Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad turns out! Don’t forget to take a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!