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Zesty Garlicky Tomato-Steak with Lemon-Feta Rocket Salad

A quick, flavorful low-carb steak dinner with a zesty lemon-feta salad.

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 780 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-Bottomed Skillet
  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Measuring Spoons
  • 1 Measuring Cups

Ingredients
  

For the Steak and Tomato Sauce

  • 1 pound sirloin steak (approximately 450 g)
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil (about 30 ml)
  • 2 clove garlic minced
  • 14 oz can diced tomatoes (about 400 g)
  • salt to taste (~1 tsp)
  • black pepper to taste (~1/2 tsp)

For the Lemon-Feta Rocket Salad

  • 2 cup rocket (arugula) (about 60 g) loosely packed
  • ½ cup feta cheese crumbled (~75 g)
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (about 15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon za’atar (about 5 g)
  • salt a pinch (~1/4 tsp)
  • black pepper a pinch (~1/4 tsp)

Step-by-Step Instructions
 

  • Season about 1 lb (450 g) of sirloin steak with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Warm 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, lay the steak in the pan and let it sizzle until a rich brown crust forms, approximately 3–4 minutes on the first side. Turn the steak and add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pan, letting their aroma bloom for about 30 seconds.
  • Next, pour in one 14 oz (400 g) can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), adjust the heat to medium-low, and allow the sauce to simmer gently. Tilt the pan to ensure the juices envelop the steak, cooking it another 3–4 minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness. Let the steak rest briefly off the heat before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute inside every tender piece.
  • In a large mixing bowl, place about 2 cups (60 g) of fresh rocket (arugula) leaves. Add ½ cup (75 g) of crumbled feta cheese, 1 minced small garlic clove, a tablespoon (15 ml) of fresh lemon juice, a tablespoon (15 ml) of extra-virgin olive oil, and about 1 teaspoon (5 g) of za’atar. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and black pepper, then toss everything together gently, ensuring each leaf gets coated in the tangy, savory dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste, and your salad is ready to bring brightness and balance to the plate.
  • Place slices of the steak onto plates and spoon over the garlicky tomato sauce. Serve alongside the vibrant lemon-feta rocket salad. Enjoy this quick, satisfying low-carb meal that celebrates full-bodied flavors and fresh ingredients.

Notes

For even more flavor, marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, and herbs beforehand. Slice the cooked steak against the grain to maintain tenderness, and let it rest to keep it juicy.
Keyword garlicky tomato sauce, lemon-feta rocket salad, low-carb steak, Mediterranean flavors, quick dinner