Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Juicy and flavorful, Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. This dish combines tender skirt steak marinated in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, served alongside a refreshing couscous salad filled with fresh herbs and feta cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings bright flavors to your table, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Marinade: The lemon-olive oil vinaigrette infuses the steak with vibrant flavor, making every bite delicious.
• Versatile Side Dish: The couscous salad is light yet filling, perfect as a side or even on its own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this colorful dish at your next gathering to wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make preparing your Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad easier, gather the essential tools beforehand. Having the right equipment can streamline the cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Colander
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat for perfectly charred steak outside while keeping it juicy inside.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and marinating the steak efficiently.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing marinade ingredients smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

Juicy and tender grilled skirt steak marinated in a lemon-olive oil vinaigrette. Served alongside a simple pearl couscous salad with fresh herbs and feta. Perfect for a summer dinner!

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

• 1 1/2 lbs skirt steak
• Flaky sea salt (optional)

For the 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)

How to Make Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, dijon mustard, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the skirt steak in a shallow dish and pour over half of the marinade. Ensure each piece is well coated.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to marinate for 30-45 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Couscous Salad

1. While the steak marinates, cook the couscous according to package instructions.
2. Drain the couscous into a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it completely. Pat dry after draining.
3. Toss cooled couscous with the remaining marinade along with cucumber, scallions, dill, parsley, and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 450°-500° F).
2. Grill the marinated skirt steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked to your preferred doneness.
3. Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
4. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve alongside your refreshing couscous salad drizzled with extra lemon juice.

Enjoy your deliciously satisfying meal!

How to Serve Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Serving grilled skirt steak with lemon herb couscous salad is all about enhancing flavors and presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides and garnishes that complement its vibrant tastes.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor that elevates the dish.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Place the couscous salad over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach to add color and nutrition.

Drizzled with Extra Vinaigrette

• A light drizzle of the remaining marinade can enhance the dish’s flavor profile, making it even more delicious.

Paired with Grilled Vegetables

• Add seasonal grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a colorful and healthy addition.

Served Family-Style

• Present the steak and salad on a large platter for guests to serve themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread to soak up any leftover vinaigrette or juices from the steak, adding a rustic touch.

How to Perfect Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Perfecting this dish involves paying attention to both the steak and the couscous salad. Here are some tips to help you achieve great results every time.

• Marinate Properly: Allow at least 30 minutes for marinating the skirt steak. This ensures maximum flavor absorption.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your steak to room temperature before grilling helps it cook evenly.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (450°-500° F) for optimal searing.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain keeps it tender and easier to chew.
• Cool Couscous Thoroughly: Rinsing the couscous under cold water prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning in both the steak marinade and couscous salad according to your personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with grilled skirt steak and lemon herb couscous salad. Each option adds unique flavors and textures.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender; they add a smoky flavor.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary provide a hearty complement.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer freshness.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled in its husk brings sweetness that balances savory flavors.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a great vehicle for sauces and juices from both dishes.
6. Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip offers creaminess that pairs well with spicy or grilled elements.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a refreshing contrast to the warm steak and salad.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide additional nutrition and flavor variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-marinating the steak: Leaving skirt steak in the marinade for too long can make it mushy. Stick to 30-45 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge for the best texture.
• Not letting the steak rest: Slicing immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out, leading to dry meat. Allow the steak to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting.
• Skipping the rinsing step for couscous: Rinsing the cooked couscous under cold water is essential for stopping the cooking process and preventing clumping. Don’t skip this step!
• Using stale herbs: Fresh herbs make a significant difference in flavor. Always check that your herbs are fresh for optimal taste in your couscous salad.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your couscous salad before serving. It may need additional salt or pepper based on personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

• The grilled skirt steak can be frozen separately from the salad.
• Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe bag. It will last about 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat steak wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and quickly warm sliced steak for 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right skirt steak?

Look for a piece with even marbling and a bright red color. This ensures flavor and tenderness when grilled.

Can I substitute couscous with another grain?

Yes! Quinoa or bulgur wheat can be used as alternatives to create a unique twist on this dish while still maintaining its deliciousness.

What can I pair with Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad?

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or a light summer wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the couscous salad a few hours in advance; just wait until serving time to add any fresh herbs.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is not only juicy and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or trying different herbs. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress!