Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Steak Marinade
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish or zip-top bag, combine 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add the steak, ensuring it's fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for best flavor.
Cook the Quinoa
- While the steak marinates, combine rinsed quinoa, 2 cups water (or broth), and 1/4 tsp salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Prepare the Vegetables and Dressing
- While quinoa cooks, prepare your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and halve the pitted Kalamata olives. Set aside in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried dill (if using), 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well combined.
Cook the Steak
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the steak and sear for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F), or longer for desired doneness.
- Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the cooked quinoa among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with an even portion of the prepared vegetables (tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives) and sliced steak.
- Drizzle generously with the lemon-herb dressing. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, allow the steak to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. Resting the steak after cooking is crucial for juicy, tender results. This recipe is excellent for meal prepping; store components separately and assemble right before serving. The dressing can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
