Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice Recipe
Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into something a little magical, with bold flavors and vibrant colors that feel both special and effortless. A juicy, tender flank steak is quickly marinated in zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then grilled (or pan-seared) until just right, served over a bed of fluffy herbed rice that’s loaded with fresh basil, cilantro, dill, and a hint of garlic. Drizzled with a deeply savory pan sauce and finished with ripe avocado, every bite is bright, herby, comforting, and full of Mediterranean-inspired sunshine. This delicious dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate—one you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The list may look long at first glance, but these are all everyday ingredients you’ll recognize—and each one plays a starring role in the flavor, texture, or color of Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice. Think of this as your guide to building layers of deliciousness, one simple ingredient at a time.
- Flank steak (2 pounds): This cut soaks up marinade beautifully and cooks up tender and juicy when sliced against the grain.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (½ cup): Adds richness and brings all the marinade flavors together.
- Fresh lemon juice (¼ cup): Gives brightness and a lovely citrus zest that lifts everything up.
- Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds tang and a gentle touch of sweetness for depth.
- Shallot, thinly sliced (1): Gives a mild, sweet onion flavor without overpowering the marinade.
- Garlic, chopped (6 cloves): Infuses every bite with savory, aromatic depth—don’t skimp!
- Honey (1 teaspoon): Balances the acid with a whisper of natural sweetness.
- Dried oregano (1 tablespoon): Brings in classic Mediterranean herbal notes for depth.
- Salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (pinch each): Rounds out and wakes up all the flavors (adjust chili flakes for your heat preference).
- Cooked basmati rice (3 cups): The perfect fluffy, aromatic base for soaking up steak juices and herby dressing.
- Fresh basil, chopped (½ cup): Loads the rice with sweet, vibrant herbal flavor.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (¼ cup): Adds a bright, almost citrusy punch to the rice mixture.
- Fresh dill, chopped (2 tablespoons): Gives a slightly grassy, fresh note that complements the other herbs.
- Lemon zest (2 teaspoons): Lifts the rice with fragrant, citrusy aromatics.
- Garlic, minced (1 clove, for rice): Adds a final pop of garlicky warmth to the rice.
- Sliced avocado (for serving): Creamy and cooling, the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Start by gathering all your marinade ingredients—olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, shallot, garlic, honey, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes—into a large bowl. Whisk them together until well blended, then add your steak, tossing to coat every nook and cranny. If you can, let it marinate for 10 to 20 minutes; a little patience here infuses the steak with bold flavor and keeps it super juicy when cooked. Even a short soak makes a huge difference!
Step 2: Grill or Sear the Steak
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, lay the marinated steak onto the surface and let it sizzle. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes per side for a lovely medium-rare, but don’t be afraid to go longer or shorter for your desired level of doneness. The scent of lemon, garlic, and oregano as the steak cooks is heavenly and signals that you’re building deep flavor.
Step 3: Let the Steak Rest
Once your steak reaches the perfect doneness, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. This little wait lets those delicious meat juices settle back in, so when you slice, you get tender, juicy results every time.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
While the steak is resting, pour any leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly and smells irresistible. This quick sauce will become the finishing drizzle that brings everything together.
Step 5: Toss the Herby Rice
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked basmati rice with a bit of olive oil, then add chopped basil, cilantro, dill, lemon zest, and a minced clove of garlic. A pinch of salt and pepper brings all those fresh flavors alive. Give it a toss so the herbs are evenly distributed and the rice is full of color and brightness—this step transforms a simple side into the star of the plate!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Thinly slice your rested steak across the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve generous slices atop a bed of herby rice. Spoon that warm, tangy pan sauce over the top, then add a few slices of creamy avocado. Every component brings its own magic, creating the unforgettable experience that is Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice.
How to Serve Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice
Garnishes
This dish absolutely shines with the right garnish. I love scattering extra chopped herbs (basil, cilantro, even a little more dill) over the top for a pop of green. A dusting of lemon zest or a final squeeze of lemon juice brightens every bite, while thinly sliced red onions or pickled shallots offer a bit of zing. Don’t forget the avocado slices—they bring dreamy creaminess and beautiful color!
Side Dishes
Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice is an all-in-one meal, but it pairs beautifully with a simple tomato-cucumber salad or some quick sautéed greens like spinach or Swiss chard. A side of tzatziki or hummus makes everything feel even more Mediterranean. Warm pita or flatbread is always a welcome addition for scooping up extra sauce and rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice in wide, shallow bowls for a vibrant “steak rice bowl” vibe, or on a large platter for a family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in. For gatherings, offer a build-your-own station where guests can top their rice with steak, extra herbs, sauce, and all the garnishes they love. Or add a fried egg on top for a sumptuous brunch twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice, you’re in luck! Store leftovers in airtight containers: keep steak, rice, and sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for standout lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
The herbed rice freezes surprisingly well—just cool it first, portion it into freezer bags, and squeeze out any air. Steak can also be frozen, either whole or sliced, but skip freezing the avocado as it doesn’t hold up. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To bring Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice back to life, gently reheat the rice and steak (separately, if possible) in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. This ensures everything stays juicy and the herbs don’t overcook. Warm the sauce separately too, and add a fresh sprinkle of herbs or more lemon before serving for that just-made freshness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice?
Absolutely! Skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye work beautifully. The key is to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness and keep your cook time quick so the meat stays juicy.
Is there a good substitute for basmati rice?
Jasmine rice or any long-grain white rice will work in a pinch, or try brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just make sure your rice is fluffy and fully cooked before tossing with herbs.
What herbs can I swap if I don’t have fresh dill or cilantro?
You can play with what’s in your fridge—fresh parsley, mint, or chives are all great additions or substitutes. The joy of Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice is mixing and matching for your tastes!
How do I make this dish spicier?
Turn up the chili flakes in the marinade, or add a little harissa or hot sauce to the pan sauce. Spicy pickled peppers on top also deliver a fun kick without overpowering the steak and herbs.
Can I prepare the rice or steak in advance?
Yes! The rice can be made and tossed with herbs ahead of time, and the steak can be marinated earlier in the day. Assemble everything just before serving and reheat with a splash of broth if needed to keep things moist and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that balances brightness, comfort, and a punch of fresh flavor, Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice is the answer. It looks impressive yet takes just half an hour, making it perfect for a quick weeknight feast or a relaxed dinner with friends. Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen—I hope it becomes one in yours, too!
Print
Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Herby Lemon Garlic Steak and Rice recipe combines the bold flavors of marinated flank steak with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends and family.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2 pounds flank steak
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 shallot thinly sliced
- 6 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of chili flakes
For the Rice:
- 3 cups cooked basmati rice
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic minced (for rice)
- Sliced avocado for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, shallot, garlic, honey, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes in a bowl. Add the flank steak, coat well, and marinate for 10–20 minutes.
- Cook the Steak: Grill the steak over medium-high heat for 5–8 minutes per side. Rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Make the Sauce: Simmer the remaining marinade in a saucepan until slightly thickened.
- Prepare the Rice: Mix cooked rice with olive oil, basil, cilantro, dill, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Serve: Slice the steak, serve over herbed rice, drizzle with sauce, and top with avocado.
Notes
- Flank steak is best cooked quickly over high heat and sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Adjust chili flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Resting the steak before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (including marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill or Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl with steak, rice, and avocado
- Calories: 586
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
