Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly seared, juicy steak nestled in a warm, soft pita, dripping with creamy tzatziki sauce and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This isn't just another recipe - it's a culinary journey that transforms your kitchen into a Greek taverna in under an hour! Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, these Steak Gyros with Mediterranean Rice will transport you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece, without the need for a passport.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the flank steak. Pat it dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the skillet.
- Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
- Once cooked to your preference, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
- While the steak is resting, prepare the Mediterranean rice. If you haven't done so already, cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions. You can use any type of rice you prefer, but basmati or jasmine rice works particularly well.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in the diced cucumber. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste for added flavor.
- Next, slice the rested flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps to make the meat more tender and easier to bite into when served in the pita.
- Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or in the oven for a few minutes until they are soft and pliable.
- To assemble the gyros, take a warmed pita and layer it with a generous portion of sliced steak. Top it with a dollop of tzatziki sauce, and if desired, add additional diced cucumbers for crunch.
- Serve the steak gyros alongside the Mediterranean rice. Enjoy your delicious homemade Greek meal!
Tips
- Always pat your steak dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and crispy exterior.
- Let the steak rest after cooking to lock in those delicious juices - patience is key!
- Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Warm your pitas briefly to enhance their flavor and make them more pliable.
- Don't skimp on the tzatziki - it's the secret weapon that elevates this dish from good to extraordinary.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of dried oregano or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to your rice.
- If you prefer a more well-done steak, adjust cooking time, but be careful not to overcook and dry out the meat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
