Mediterranean Steak Bites

Tender sirloin is marinated in a zesty Mediterranean blend of warm spices, fresh herbs, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil  
• 1 1/2 pounds sirloin, Cut into one-inch cubes  

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil  
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar  
• 2 shallots, finely minced  
• 1 lemon, juiced  
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest  
• 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley or curly parsley, finely minced  
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced  
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano  
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme  
• 1 teaspoon paprika  
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt  
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cooking:

1. In a large bowl or a large Ziplock bag, add the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, shallots, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper, and stir well to combine. Add the cubed steak into the large bowl and mix well until the seasoning covers the steak. 
2. Optional: You can save a small portion of the marinade to the side to use to brush on the steak bites as they grill.  
3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.  
4. Preheat the grill to 400 degrees F. Place either a grill-safe pan or a cast iron skillet into the grill to warm up.  
5. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the cast iron skillet or grill pan. Add the cubed steak to the pan in an even layer. Use a basting brush to brush the remaining marinade on the steak.  
6. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes, then turn the steak over and grill for another 3-4 minutes, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F on a meat thermometer. Remove from the grill and tent with foil for 5 minutes.  
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, and serve with a tzatziki sauce or tahini yogurt sauce.

Notes:

• If time allows, I recommend marinating the beef for 2 hours as it will intensify the flavor of the marinade. Marinate in a food-safe plastic bag or in a non-reactive container such as glass or plastic. Turn or stir the beef occasionally to allow even exposure to the marinade.  
• Add olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to the skillet or grill pan to stop the steak from sticking.  
• Save a small portion of the marinade before adding it to the beef. You can brush this on the steak bites as they grill to add more flavor.  
• Always allow time to rest the beef and allow the juices to be redistributed. This will ensure juicy and flavorful steak bites. I like to cover the finished steak bites with foil for 10 minutes to help lock in the flavor and juices.

Safe Handling Tips:

• Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat. 
• Separate raw meat from other foods. 
• Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat. 
• Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods. 
• Wash all produce prior to use. 
• Cook steaks and roasts until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare, as measured by a meat thermometer, allowing to rest for three minutes. Cook Ground Beef to 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer. 
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly. 

For more information on degree of doneness and other cooking tips. 

For more information on safe food handling and beef safety.