Description
A flavorful and hearty steak quinoa salad featuring grilled flank or sirloin steak, fresh vegetables, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. This protein-packed dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner, with an optional creamy tzatziki sauce to elevate the flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak (flank or sirloin)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad Components
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Optional Dressing
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or pan: Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat to get it hot enough for cooking the steak quickly and evenly.
- Prepare the steak: Rub the steak with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, ensuring the meat is well-coated with the seasoning for enhanced flavor.
- Cook the steak: Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
- Assemble the salad base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, chopped Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Slice and add the steak: Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain for optimal tenderness, then layer the slices on top of the quinoa salad mix.
- Finish with optional sauce and serve: Drizzle with tzatziki sauce if desired to add a creamy and tangy element. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures.
Notes
- You can substitute the steak with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Quinoa can be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated to save time.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Tzatziki sauce is optional but adds a refreshing, creamy tang; you can also use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute.
