Name: Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min

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Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a culinary delight that embodies the essence of summer. Imagine juicy, perfectly grilled skirt steak resting on a bed of vibrant, zesty couscous salad. This dish is not only delicious but also an incredible way to celebrate warm weather and outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this savory combination will surely impress your taste buds and delight your guests.
The moment you take your first bite of the grilled skirt steak, you will be enveloped by its robust flavors and tender texture. Complemented by the refreshing notes of the lemon herb couscous salad, this meal strikes an amazing balance between savory and refreshing. You’ll find that this recipe is not complicated; it’s designed to be simple yet packed with flavor.
As we dive into this guide, you’ll discover why Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a must-try recipe, learn how to prepare it step by step, and explore tips for serving it perfectly. Let’s get started on this incredible summer feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad stands out for many compelling reasons that make it a favorite amongst home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Here are some of the top reasons you’ll fall in love with this dish:
1. Quick and Easy: The preparation and cooking time is relatively short, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
2. Flavor Explosion: The marinade for the skirt steak infuses it with a deep, rich flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
3. Refreshing Couscous Salad: The lightness of the lemon herb couscous salad perfectly complements the heartiness of the steak, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
4. Versatility: You can easily adapt the couscous salad by adding seasonal vegetables or herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
5. Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish for lunch throughout the week.
6. Impressive Presentation: This meal not only tastes great but looks stunning on a plate, perfect for entertaining.
The combination of these elements makes Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience!

Preparation and Cooking Time

To create this delightful dish, here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes (including marinating)
– Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
These time estimates may vary slightly based on your cooking skills and kitchen equipment, but rest assured that you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Skirt Steak:

– 1.5 pounds of skirt steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

For the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

– 1 cup couscous
– 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is straightforward. Follow these steps to achieve an amazing dish!

For the Skirt Steak:

1. Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chopped rosemary.
2. Coat the Steak: Place the skirt steak in a dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure the steak is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill over high heat until hot.
4. Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it cooked more.
5. Rest the Steak: Once done, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

For the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
3. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the couscous salad and toss everything together until well combined.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, presentation and timing can elevate the experience:
1. Slice the Steak: Cut the grilled steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.
2. Plate the Dish: On a large serving platter, arrange a portion of the lemon herb couscous salad, then place the sliced steak artfully on top or beside it.
3. Garnish: Add fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a pop of color and freshness.
4. Accompaniments: Consider serving with grilled vegetables or flatbreads for a complete meal.
5. Pair with Beverages: This dish pairs beautifully with chilled white wine or a light summer cocktail.
By putting a little thought into serving, you’re sure to impress your guests and create a memorable dining experience centered around this amazing dish.
In conclusion, Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad promises a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it an essential addition to any summer menu. Celebrate the season with this incredible recipe, and enjoy each bite of your savory summer feast!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Ingredients: To elevate the flavors in your Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, opt for high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
– Let the Steak Rest: Allow the steak to rest after grilling for optimal juiciness. This step ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its tenderness.
– Don’t Skip the Marinade: The marinade not only flavors the skirt steak but also helps to tenderize it. For a deeper flavor profile, marinate the steak overnight.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste. Here are some variations worth trying:
1. Different Meat: Swap the skirt steak for flank steak or even chicken breast for a lighter option. Both alternatives grill well and absorb marinades beautifully.
2. Grains Options: Instead of using couscous, you can try quinoa or farro for a heartier salad. Both grains are nutritious and add unique flavors.
3. Seasonal Vegetables: Toss in seasonal vegetables like grilled zucchini or bell peppers into the couscous salad for added color and nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The steak will last for about 3-4 days, but for the best flavor, consume it within the first two days.
– Freezing: If you have extra grilled steak, slice it and freeze it in single portions. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. The couscous salad is best enjoyed fresh, so it is not recommended to freeze.

Special Equipment

To make the process smoother, gather these essential tools before starting:
– Grill or grill pan for cooking the steak
– Mixing bowl for the marinade
– Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
– Medium saucepan for preparing the couscous
– Large mixing bowl for combining the couscous salad ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute skirt steak with flank steak, lamb, or even chicken. Just adjust the marinating time as different meats require varying times for flavor absorption.

Is couscous gluten-free?

No, traditional couscous is made from wheat and contains gluten. However, you can use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice for a gluten-free alternative.

Can I marinate the steak longer?

Absolutely! For a more intense flavor, marinate the skirt steak for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with this dish?

This meal pairs well with grilled vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or crusty bread. You might even consider serving a light dessert afterward, like sorbet.

Conclusion

Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a vibrant dish that encapsulates the essence of summer dining. With its perfect balance of flavors, this meal is great for outdoor gatherings or cozy family dinners. The robust steak coupled with the refreshing couscous salad makes for a delightful experience that your guests will rave about.