The Grilled Steak Bowl with Zucchini is a simple, delicious meal that brings together juicy grilled steak and tender, slightly charred zucchini. It’s a great mix of flavors and textures, with the smoky taste from the grill making everything taste even better. This bowl is perfect for when you want something hearty but still fresh and a little light on the sides.
I love making this bowl because it’s easy to put together and feels like a treat without needing a lot of fancy ingredients. One thing I always do is season the steak well before grilling and cook the zucchini just until it’s soft with those nice grill marks. It’s one of those meals that’s great for leftovers too, so I usually make extra and pack it for lunch the next day.
When I serve this bowl, I like adding a bit of a fresh touch, like a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It really lifts everything up and makes it feel homemade and cozy. This dish often reminds me of summer cookouts, where the smell of the grill and the fresh veggies make the whole meal feel like a little celebration.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or sirloin works best for grilling—both have great flavor and cook quickly. If you want a leaner option, try skirt steak or even chicken breast for a different twist.
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are perfect here. You can swap with yellow squash if you like, which grills just as well and adds a slightly sweeter taste.
Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice adds a nice fragrant touch. For a healthier bowl, try quinoa or cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative.
Greek Yogurt: The yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If dairy-free, swap with coconut yogurt or simply use a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Steak and Zucchini?
The secret to great grilled steak and zucchini is timing and heat. Here’s what I do:
- Preheat grill or grill pan so it’s really hot. This helps get good grill marks and locks in juices.
- Brush oil and seasonings on both steak and zucchini to avoid sticking and add flavor.
- Grill zucchini 3-4 minutes per side; you want tender slices with clear grill marks but not mushy.
- Grill steak 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare—adjust time if you prefer it more or less done.
- Let steak rest 5 minutes after grilling before slicing against the grain. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I like a grill pan because it heats evenly and is easy to use indoors. It gives nice grill marks on the steak and zucchini.
- Medium saucepan – for cooking rice. A wide pan helps it cook evenly and prevents boiling over.
- Brush or pastry brush – to spread the oil and seasonings smoothly on the steak and zucchini.
- Knife and cutting board – essential for slicing the steak and zucchini after grilling.
- Serving bowl – a nice large bowl for layering all the ingredients beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options that cook quickly on the grill.
- Add sliced bell peppers or red onion on the grill for extra color and flavor.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese or crumbled queso fresco after cooking for a creamy, salty touch.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon, or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
How to Make Grilled Steak Bowl with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water or broth (for cooking rice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for drizzle)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total: 15 minutes to cook the rice, 10 minutes to grill the steak and zucchini, and 5 minutes to rest the steak. It’s a quick and satisfying meal you can enjoy any day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice and water or broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
2. Prepare the Grill and Seasoning:
While the rice is cooking, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture on both sides of the steak and zucchini slices to prepare them for grilling.
3. Grill Zucchini and Steak:
Place the zucchini slices on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until tender and nicely charred. Remove the zucchini and set aside. Next, grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
In a serving bowl, start with a base of cooked rice. Add the sliced grilled steak, zucchini, and quartered cherry tomatoes on top. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice. If you like, add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt and sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled steak bowl with zucchini is ready to enjoy! Serve immediately while warm, and savor the delicious mix of grilled flavors and fresh ingredients.
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.
Can I Substitute Zucchini with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Yellow squash, bell peppers, or asparagus work well on the grill and complement the steak nicely.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the steak tender.
Can I Make This Bowl Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can grill the steak and zucchini in advance and refrigerate separately. When ready to serve, reheat gently and assemble the bowl fresh with rice and toppings.