Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a meal that delivers both comfort and freshness in every bite. The skirt steak is juicy and tender, thanks to a lemon-infused marinade that adds a delightful balance of tang and sweetness. The couscous salad is a refreshing side, combining crunchy cucumbers, zesty herbs, and creamy feta. The dish is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Skirt Steak 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

• 1 1/2 lbs skirt steak

• Flaky sea salt (optional)

For the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

• 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)

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

2. Place the skirt steak in a shallow dish, and pour half of the marinade over it, ensuring the steak is fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge. Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling.

3. While the steak marinates, cook the couscous according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Let it drain and pat dry with a paper towel.

4. Toss the cooled couscous with the remaining marinade, cucumber, scallions, dill, parsley, and feta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 450°-500°F).

6. Grill the skirt steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

7. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt (optional) and serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Additional Time: 30-45 minutes (for marinating)

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the skirt steak with grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a fuller, more colorful meal.

• Vegan Option: Replace the feta with a plant-based cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter, vegan-friendly version.

• Add Spices: Feel free to add chili flakes or smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra kick of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the skirt steak gently in a pan over low heat to prevent it from becoming tough. The couscous salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer to warm it up, do so in a pan with a touch of olive oil.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use flank steak or sirloin if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How long should I marinate the skirt steak?

For the best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge for a deeper flavor.

3. Can I make the couscous salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the couscous salad a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

4. What other herbs can I use in the couscous salad?

Mint, basil, or cilantro would be great substitutes for dill and parsley.

5. How do I know when the skirt steak is done?

Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. For medium, cook a minute longer on each side.

6. Can I use regular couscous instead of Israeli couscous?

You can substitute regular couscous, but Israeli couscous provides a chewier texture that works well with the salad.

7. Is it necessary to let the steak rest after grilling?

Yes, letting the steak rest for 10 minutes helps retain its juices and ensures a tender texture.

8. How do I get a good sear on the skirt steak?

Preheat the grill to high heat and avoid moving the steak too much while grilling to get a nice sear.

9. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works great for this recipe. Preheat it over medium-high heat for the best results.

10. Can I make this recipe without honey?

Yes, you can omit the honey or substitute it with maple syrup or agave if you prefer a different sweetener.

Conclusion

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a delicious, quick, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, marinated skirt steak paired with the zesty couscous salad makes for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

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