Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Introduction

What happens when smoky grilled skirt steak meets a bright and refreshing couscous salad? Magic. This Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a protein-packed, flavor-forward dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or easy weeknight dinners. With zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and juicy steak, it’s a satisfying meal that’s ready in 30 minutes or less.

Ingredients List

For the Skirt Steak:

  • 1.5 lbs skirt steak
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad:

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 1/4 cups boiling water or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the steak

In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the steak and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours).

Step 2: Make the couscous salad

Place couscous in a bowl and pour boiling water or broth over it. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then mix in parsley, mint, onion, tomatoes, lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and feta if using. Season to taste.

Step 3: Grill the steak

Heat a grill or grill pan to high heat. Cook the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to your preferred doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain.

Step 4: Assemble and serve

Serve steak slices over the couscous salad or alongside. Drizzle with extra lemon juice or olive oil if desired.

Tips

  • Let the steak rest before slicing to lock in juices.
  • Use whole wheat couscous for added fiber.
  • Add cucumber or avocado for extra freshness.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 4)

  • Calories: ~480
  • Protein: 36g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

This Grilled Skirt Steak with Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is a winning combo of bold and bright flavors. Perfectly charred steak paired with herbaceous couscous makes this a complete, crave-worthy meal.