Balsamic Skirt Steak with Red Pepper Relish & Zucchini Salad

This dish is a vibrant celebration of bold flavors and fresh textures. Juicy balsamic-marinated skirt steak is grilled to perfection and topped with a tangy-sweet red pepper relish. On the side, a light zucchini ribbon salad adds freshness and balance. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly simple to make at home — perfect for weeknight dinners or a special weekend treat.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 lb (450 g) skirt steak
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Red Pepper Relish:

• 1 cup roasted red peppers, finely diced (or fresh sweet red peppers)
• 1 fresh red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Pinch of salt

For the Zucchini Salad:

• 2 medium zucchinis, shaved into thin ribbons
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak

• In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Add the skirt steak and coat well.
• Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Make the Red Pepper Relish

• In a small bowl, combine roasted red peppers, chili (if using), balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
• Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld while the steak cooks.

3. Prepare the Zucchini Salad

• Toss zucchini ribbons with olive oil, lemon juice, dill or parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Set aside. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

4. Cook the Steak

• Heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot.
• Cook the steak for 2–3 minutes per side, depending on thickness (medium-rare to medium works best).
• Remove from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter.
• Spoon the red pepper relish generously over the top.
• Serve with the fresh zucchini salad on the side.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overcook skirt steak: It’s best served medium-rare to keep it tender.
• Marinate longer for deeper flavor: Up to 4 hours makes a big difference.
• Add a sprinkle of feta: Crumbled cheese on top of the zucchini salad pairs beautifully with the relish.

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Marinating: 30 mins+
• Total Time: ~40 mins
• Servings: 2–3