Grilled Steak and Zucchini with Whipped Feta is a vibrant and flavorful summer dish that brings together tender, juicy steak, smoky grilled zucchini, and creamy whipped feta. This recipe combines a sweet, tangy, and savory marinade with the richness of feta and the subtle crunch of toasted spices. Perfect for barbecues, weeknight dinnhttps://happinessdish.com/dinner/ers, or entertaining guests, this dish is both visually stunning and absolutely delicious.

With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and clear step-by-step instructions, this Grilled Steak and Zucchini with Whipped Feta recipe allows you to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of charred zucchini, perfectly cooked steak, and creamy feta creates a balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients for Grilled Steak and Zucchini with Whipped Feta

For the Steak and Zucchini:

• 1½ pounds flank steak (can substitute with skirt steak if unavailable)
• 3 zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thick strips
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Marinade:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Whipped Feta:

• 8 ounces feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (add more if needed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl or a large zip-top bag, whisk together:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic (grated or minced)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pour the marinade over the flank steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor and tenderization, you may marinate the steak up to 24 hours.

Tip: Flank steak is naturally a tougher cut of meat, so allowing it to marinate longer will help break down proteins and infuse flavor.

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Step 2: Toast the Spices

In a small skillet over medium heat, add:

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Toast the seeds while stirring frequently for about 1 minute or until they become fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool. These toasted seeds will add a nutty, aromatic finish to the dish when sprinkled over the steak and zucchini.

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Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat. If you don’t have a grill, an indoor grill pan works just as well. The goal is to achieve a high-heat sear that locks in the juices and gives the steak a beautiful charred exterior.

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Step 4: Make the Whipped Feta

While the grill is heating, prepare the whipped feta:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine:
   • 8 ounces feta cheese
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil
   • 1 clove garlic
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
   • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add a little more heavy cream until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the whipped feta until ready to serve.

Tip: Whipped feta can also be used as a dip for vegetables or as a spread on warm bread, making this recipe versatile.

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Step 5: Grill the Steak and Zucchini

1. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
2. Brush the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Place the steak on the preheated grill and cook for 3–5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on thickness and desired doneness.
4. While the steak is cooking, grill the zucchini until tender with visible char marks, approximately 5–10 minutes. Turn occasionally to ensure even grilling.

Tip: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute. This ensures each slice is tender and juicy.

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Step 6: Slice the Steak

Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. Cutting against the grain is essential for maintaining tenderness, especially with flank steak or skirt steak.

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Step 7: Assemble the Plate

1. Arrange the grilled steak slices on a serving plate.
2. Add the grilled zucchini alongside the steak.
3. Dollop or spread the whipped feta over the steak and zucchini.
4. Sprinkle the toasted cumin and sesame seeds over the top for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

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Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

This Grilled Steak and Zucchini with Whipped Feta recipe is best served immediately while the steak is warm and the zucchini is slightly smoky. The creamy feta contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory steak, and the grilled vegetables provide a fresh, crunchy texture.

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Tips and Substitutions

1. Alternative Cuts of Meat: If flank steak isn’t available, skirt steak is an excellent substitute. Both cuts benefit from marination and high-heat cooking.
2. Dairy-Free Option: Replace whipped feta with chimichurri or mojo sauce for a dairy-free alternative.
3. Indoor Cooking: No grill? Use a heavy skillet or indoor grill pan to sear the steak on high heat.
4. Vegetable Variations: Swap zucchini with grilled bell peppers, roasted tomatoes, or asparagus for a different twist.
5. Marinade Flexibility: Adjust the marinade by using maple syrup instead of honey, or rice vinegar instead of red wine vinegar, for a slightly different flavor profile.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple zucchini pasta salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
• Pair with fresh cherry tomato salad or sautéed greens for added freshness.
• Enjoy with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a classic wine pairing.