The Grilled Steak Bowl with Zucchini is a delicious mix of tender, smoky steak and fresh, lightly charred zucchini. This bowl brings together simple, healthy ingredients that pack a lot of flavor without being too heavy. The steak is juicy and satisfying, while the zucchini adds a nice crisp bite and a touch of sweetness from the grill.
I love making this bowl when I want something quick but still feel like I’m eating something special. Marinating the steak just a little bit before grilling really helps bring out the taste. The zucchini cooks fast and matches the steak perfectly, making every bite balanced and fun. It’s one of those meals where you don’t miss complicated sides because everything is right there in the bowl.
My favorite way to eat this is to add a little rice or quinoa as a base, then top it all with some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish. It’s easy to customize depending on what you have on hand, and it always feels fresh and filling. Whenever I serve it, friends and family ask for seconds, which makes me feel like a grilling pro!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or sirloin works best for grilling because they cook fast and stay tender. If you want a leaner option, try skirt steak or even chicken breast instead.
Zucchini: This veggie grills quickly and adds a fresh crunch. If zucchini isn’t available, summer squash or eggplant slices are nice substitutes.
Rice: White rice is classic here, but brown rice or quinoa add more fiber and a nutty flavor. I like quinoa when I want extra protein and texture.
Cheese: Feta or goat cheese adds creaminess and tang. For a dairy-free choice, skip the cheese or try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
How Do You Get Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Steak Every Time?
Grilling steak and zucchini well takes a couple of key steps that I always follow:
- Preheat your grill or pan hot before adding food to get clear grill marks and quick searing.
- Marinate steak in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and spices to tenderize and flavor it.
- Grill zucchini slices just 2–3 mins per side to keep them crisp yet tender.
- For the steak, 4–5 minutes per side usually hits medium-rare, but use a meat thermometer if unsure (130–135°F is ideal).
- Let your steak rest after grilling for 5 minutes—this keeps the juices inside when you slice it.
Slice the steak against the grain to keep it tender. Following these tips makes the steak juicy and the veggies perfectly charred every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I prefer grilling because it gives the zucchini and steak a nice smoky flavor and marks.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the steak thin against the grain and chopping herbs easily.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface for preparing zucchini slices and herbs.
- Small bowl – to mix the marinade and any spices.
- Tongs or spatula – for flipping the zucchini slices and steak on the grill.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps you check that the steak reaches desired doneness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap feta for shredded cheese or dollops of guacamole for different creamy textures.
- Add sliced peppers or cherry tomatoes before grilling for extra color and flavor.
- Use different herbs like rosemary or thyme in the marinade for a new aroma.
- Spritz with lime juice instead of lemon for a brighter, citrusy twist when serving.
Grilled Steak Bowl with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak and Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice or quinoa)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa or diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro), chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare the steak marinade and veggies, 10-12 minutes to grill the steak and zucchini, and 5 minutes to rest the steak. Overall, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or chili powder. Rub this mixture over the steak well. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or if you prefer, marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to boost flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill and Prep the Zucchini:
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the zucchini slices lightly with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper on them.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place zucchini slices on the grill. Cook 2-3 minutes on each side until tender and marked with grill lines. Remove them and set aside.
4. Grill the Steak and Rest:
Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or cook to your preferred doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute and the meat stays juicy.
5. Slice the Steak:
Thinly slice the steak against the grain to keep it tender and easy to eat.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide cooked rice among bowls. Top with sliced steak and grilled zucchini. Add crumbled feta cheese and a spoonful of salsa or diced tomatoes if you like.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top for a bright finish. Serve the bowls immediately and enjoy a delicious, balanced meal!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and grilling. Using a frozen steak directly can result in uneven cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t available, try slicing summer squash, eggplant, or bell peppers for grilling. They all work well and add great flavor to the bowl.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover steak, grilled zucchini, and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your bowl again.
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the marinade and grill the steak and veggies in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the bowls when ready to eat for a quick, fresh meal.