Mushroom and Olive "Mediterranean" Steak

Take your steak dinner to the next level with savory Mediterranean flavor. This easy recipe tops juicy grilled steak with an umami mushroom sauce and briny olives for a restaurant-worthy, yet simple meal. The earthy mushrooms and salty olives pair perfectly with the charred beef. Quick to make but big on taste, this dish proves steak doesn't have to be basic.

An Introduction to Grilled Steak

Grilled steak provides the succulent base for our Mediterranean topping. Let's cover the basics:

Popular Cuts for Grilling

Ribeye, strip, tenderloin, tri-tip, flank and skirt steak all shine when grilled.

Flavor and Texture

Grilling adds delicious smoky char while cooking the interior to tender, juicy perfection.

Doneness

Steaks are typically grilled to doneness levels from rare (cool red center) to well done.

Resting

Letting steak rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute for a tender, juicy result.

When grilled correctly, steak needs little embellishment to shine.

Crafting the Mushroom Olive Topping

Savory mushrooms and briny olives make the ideal pairing for grilled steak. Here's how to prepare it:

Saute the Mushrooms

Saute sliced mushrooms in olive oil and garlic until lightly browned.

Use Meaty Varieties

Opt for portobello, cremini or shiitake mushrooms to stand up to steak.

Splash of Wine

Deglaze pan with a bit of red wine vinegar or wine to pick up savory bits.

Toss in Olives

Add halved or sliced olives like Kalamata, green, or Mediterranean mix.

Seasonings

Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano.

These simple embellishments take grilled steak to the next level.

Benefits of Mushrooms

Mushrooms offer flavor along with great health perks:

Low in Calories

Mushrooms offer volume and nutrient density with minimal calories.

Rich in Antioxidants

They contain antioxidants like ergothioneine to combat free radicals.

Vitamins and Minerals

Mushrooms contain B vitamins as well as selenium, potassium and copper.

Anti-Inflammatory

Compounds in mushrooms exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Immunity Booster

Certain mushrooms types may promote immune system function.

Add nutrients and depth of flavor with antioxidant-rich mushrooms.

Recipe for Mushroom Olive Topped Steak

This restaurant-worthy steak is achievable for home cooks.

Steak Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye, NY strip or sirloin steaks
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Topping Ingredients:

• 8 oz. sliced mushrooms
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1⁄4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Prepare steak topping. Heat oil in pan and sauté mushrooms until browned.
2. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Splash in vinegar and add olives and thyme.
3. Grill or pan sear steaks to desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare.
4. Top steaks with mushroom olive mixture. Let rest 5 minutes then serve.

For added Mediterranean flavor, try adding crumbled feta cheese to the mushroom topping.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Steak

Use these helpful tips for best results:

• Pat steaks dry thoroughly before grilling.
• Use high heat and don't move steaks too much while cooking.
• Flip only once during cooking for nice grill marks.
• Aim for 145°F internal temperature for medium rare.
• Always let steaks rest before slicing to retain juices.
• Slice against the grain for most tender texture.

With proper techniques, you'll achieve restaurant-quality steak every time!

The Mediterranean Diet

This steak dish is inspired by the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet:

Origin

The diet is based on the traditional cuisines of Greece, Italy and other Mediterranean countries.

Common Foods

Features olive oil, fish, seafood, herbs, nuts, fruits, vegetables, beans, grains.

Health Benefits

Linked to reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and some cancers.

Lifestyle Factors

Emphasizes physical activity, community, and enjoying wine in moderation.

Modern Adaptations

The diet has gained popularity around the world, with creative interpretations.

This steak dish celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Conclusion

For a steak dinner with a gourmet twist, try this easy mushroom and olive “Mediterranean” topped steak. The earthy mushrooms and briny olives pair wonderfully with the smoky charred steak, offering flavor contrast in every bite. Quick to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining, this recipe proves you don't need fancy ingredients or complex cooking to create a restaurant-worthy steak at home. Simply grilled steak lets the quality ingredients shine. Bon appétit!

FAQs

What other toppings go well with grilled steak?

Compound butters, chimichurri sauce, caramelized onions, garlic herb butter, blue cheese crumbles also make great toppings for grilled steak.

What sides pair well with Mediterranean steak?

Roasted potatoes, couscous, polenta, ratatouille, Greek salad, and grilled asparagus or other veggies complement this steak beautifully.

Can I use portobello mushrooms instead?

Absolutely. Sliced portobellos offer great hearty texture and flavor for this dish.

Is olive oil or butter better for grilling steak?

Both work well, but olive oil has a higher smoke point making it ideal for grilling at high heat.

What steak doneness is healthiest?

Rarer steaks (medium rare or less) have higher iron bioavailability. Well done steaks may contain compounds that are carcinogenic.

In summary, topping juicy grilled steak with a savory mushroom and olive mixture offers a taste of the Mediterranean in easy homemade form.