Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe – Cravefuly

By Kimberly Booker RD | Published on January 30, 2024

When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like the juicy tenderness of a perfectly cooked steak kabob. And if you’re craving that delicious flavor without having to dine at a restaurant, we have a solution for you – Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe. 

This recipe is inspired by the popular Mediterranean-inspired restaurant chain, Zoes Kitchen, and can be easily made in the comfort of your own home. 

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these mouthwatering kabobs, provide cooking tips, nutritional information, serving suggestions, and even offer substitutes for ingredients. So let’s get started!

What is Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs?

The Cava Group owned and operated the Mediterranean-style restaurant chain Zoes Kitchen. Plano, Texas served as the location of their headquarters. The chain had expanded to over 200 locations in 17 states by 2013, but the acquisition by Cava Group led to a decrease in Zoe’s locations. 

Zoes Kitchen have an impressive menu to try on. But the Steak Kabobs is one of their best. It is a delightful combination of marinated top sirloin steak, vibrant and colorful bell peppers, and flavorful red onions. 

The marinade enhances the natural taste of the ingredients and makes the meat tender and juicy. The Mediterranean flavors in this recipe add a unique twist to the traditional steak kabobs, making them a favorite for both meat lovers and those who appreciate a fresh and healthy meal.

The Ingredients

To make Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a foundational ingredient in the Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs recipe. It serves as the primary source of fat, adding richness to the marinade and helping to tenderize the meat. The distinct flavor of olive oil also contributes to the overall taste of the dish.

Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce brings a savory and umami depth to the marinade. Its combination of fermented anchovies, vinegar, and various spices enhances the flavor profile of the steak, providing a well-rounded and complex taste.

Onion Powder: Onion powder adds a concentrated onion flavor to the marinade. It contributes to the overall seasoning of the dish, infusing the meat with a subtle onion taste without the texture of fresh onions.

Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar adds acidity to the marinade, which helps tenderize the meat and balances the richness of the olive oil. It also imparts a tangy and slightly fruity flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the kabobs.

Granulated Garlic: Granulated garlic contributes a milder and more evenly distributed garlic flavor to the marinade. It eliminates the need for fresh garlic while still providing the characteristic taste that complements the beef.

Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami to the marinade. It enhances the savory profile of the dish and works in harmony with the other ingredients to create a well-balanced flavor.

Minced Garlic: Minced garlic contributes a stronger and more pronounced garlic flavor to the marinade. It adds a pungent and aromatic element that enhances the overall taste of the steak.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a bright and citrusy note to the marinade. The acidity helps to tenderize the meat and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the other ingredients.

Finely Chopped Fresh Oregano: Fresh oregano adds an herbaceous and aromatic quality to the marinade, infusing the meat with a distinct and fresh flavor. It complements the other ingredients, contributing to the Mediterranean-inspired taste of Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs.

Salt and Black Pepper: Salt and black pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish. They add depth and balance to the flavors, ensuring the steak is well-seasoned and delicious.

Top Sirloin Steak: Top sirloin steak is a choice cut of beef for the kabobs, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It’s a versatile cut that works well with grilling, making it an excellent choice for this recipe.

Seeded Red Bell Pepper, Red Onion, Seeded Green Bell Pepper, Seeded Yellow Bell Pepper: These vegetables add color, texture, and a sweet and savory element to the kabobs. 

They complement the steak, creating a well-balanced and visually appealing dish. The bell peppers and red onion also provide a slightly charred and caramelized flavor when grilled.

Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Copycat Recipe

How to Make Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs?

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, red wine vinegar, granulated garlic, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped fresh oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the cubed top sirloin steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and ensure the steak is evenly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables

While the steak is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Cut the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion into chunks.

Step 4: Skewer the Ingredients

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the metal or soaked wooden skewers and thread the marinated steak cubes, alternating with the chunks of bell peppers and red onions.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. Turn the skewers occasionally for even cooking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices distribute evenly throughout the meat. Serve the Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs while they are still warm for the best flavor.

Notes:

– To ensure tender and juicy kabobs, choose a good quality cut of top sirloin steak.

– Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling will prevent them from burning.

– You can adjust the seasoning in the marinade according to your taste preferences.

– For added flavor, you can brush the kabobs with the leftover marinade while grilling.

– Make sure to preheat the grill well before cooking the kabobs.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftover Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, lightly grill or warm them in the oven until heated through. However, for the best results, it is recommended to enjoy these kabobs fresh.

How to Make Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe

Nutrition Information

Per serving of Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs:

– Calories: 286 kcal

– Fat: 11g

– Saturated Fat: 2g

– Cholesterol: 60mg

– Carbohydrates: 16g

– Fiber: 4g

– Sugar: 8g

– Protein: 28g

– Sodium: 931mg

Serving Suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions that pair well with Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs:

  • Greek Salad: Serve the kabobs with a side of Greek salad consisting of feta cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: Whip up a batch of homemade tzatziki sauce using Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. Dip the kabobs in the cool and creamy sauce for an extra burst of flavors.
  • Rice Pilaf: Accompany the kabobs with a fluffy and fragrant rice pilaf cooked with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Grill some additional vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes alongside the kabobs to add even more freshness and variety to your plate.
  • Pita Bread and Hummus: Warm up some pita bread and serve it with a generous dollop of creamy and flavorful hummus. This combination adds a delightful texture to the meal.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe?

If you don’t have all the ingredients listed or want to experiment with flavors, here are some substitutes you can try in Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe:

  • Protein: Instead of top sirloin steak, you can use other cuts of beef like rib-eye, tenderloin, or even lamb for a different taste experience. Alternatively, if you prefer a vegetarian alternative, substitute the meat with firm tofu or tempeh marinated in similar seasonings.
  • Bell Peppers: If you don’t have the specific colors of bell peppers mentioned, feel free to use whatever you have available. You can use all green bell peppers or a combination of red, yellow, and orange for added visual appeal.
  • Onion Powder: If you don’t have onion powder on hand, finely chopped fresh onions or even onion flakes can be used as a substitute. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: If Worcestershire sauce is not available, you can use a combination of soy sauce and apple cider vinegar as a substitute. The flavors won’t be exactly the same, but they will add a savory and tangy element to the marinade.
  • Fresh Oregano: If fresh oregano is not available, dried oregano can be used instead. However, since dried herbs are more potent, use about half the amount mentioned in the recipe.
How to Make Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe

Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe

Kimberly Booker RD
When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like the juicy tenderness of a perfectly cooked steak kabob. And if you’re craving that delicious flavor without having to dine at a restaurant, we have a solution for you – Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe. 
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 351 kcal

Equipment

  • Bowl
  • Skewers
  • Grill or Grill Pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 Red Onion
  • 1/2 tablespoon Minced Garlic
  • 1/4 Seeded Red Bell Pepper
  • 1/2 pound Top Sirloin Steak
  • 1 teaspoon Finely Chopped Fresh Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Granulated Garlic
  • 1/4 Seeded Yellow Bell Pepper
  • 1/4 Seeded Green Bell Pepper
  • 2/3 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2/3 tablespoon Soy Sauce
  • 2/3 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Salt and Black Pepper

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

  • In a bowl, combine Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Worcestershire Sauce, Onion Powder, Red Wine Vinegar, Granulated Garlic, Soy Sauce, Minced Garlic, Fresh Lemon Juice, Finely Chopped Fresh Oregano, Salt, and Black Pepper. Mix well.

Marinate the Steak:

  • Cut the Top Sirloin Steak into bite-sized cubes.
  • Place the steak cubes in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
  • Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Prepare Vegetables:

  • Cut the Seeded Red Bell Pepper, Red Onion, Seeded Green Bell Pepper, and Seeded Yellow Bell Pepper into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble Kabobs:

  • Thread the marinated steak cubes, bell pepper pieces, and red onion onto skewers, alternating for a colorful mix.

Grill or Cook:

  • Grill the kabobs over medium-high heat or cook in a grill pan, turning occasionally until the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.

Serve Hot:

  • Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the heat and serve hot.

Enjoy:

  • Relish the savory and flavorful Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs, a perfect blend of marinated steak and vibrant vegetables.

Notes

  • – To ensure tender and juicy kabobs, choose a good quality cut of top sirloin steak.
  • – Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling will prevent them from burning.
  • – You can adjust the seasoning in the marinade according to your taste preferences.
  • – For added flavor, you can brush the kabobs with the leftover marinade while grilling.
  • – Make sure to preheat the grill well before cooking the kabobs.

Nutrition

Calories: 351kcal
Keyword Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I use chicken instead of steak for the kabobs?

A1. Yes, absolutely! Feel free to substitute the steak with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken requires longer cooking compared to steak.

Q2. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

A2. Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same instructions for grilling the kabobs.

Q3. Can I marinate the steak for less than 2 hours?

A3. While marinating the steak for a minimum of 2 hours is recommended for optimal flavor, if you’re short on time, you can marinate it for at least 30 minutes. However, keep in mind that the longer the marination time, the more flavorful and tender the steak will be.

Q4. Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

A4. Yes, metal skewers are a great alternative to wooden ones. The advantage of using metal skewers is that they do not require pre-soaking and are reusable.

Q5. Can I make these kabobs in the oven?

A5. Yes, you can broil the kabobs in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat the oven to broil, place the skewers on a lined baking sheet, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q6. Can I freeze the leftovers?

A6. While it’s possible to freeze the leftovers, the quality may be compromised upon reheating. If you do choose to freeze the kabobs, make sure to store them in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Zoes Kitchen Steak Kabobs Recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish that can easily be prepared at home. With a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy these Mediterranean-inspired kabobs any time. 

The marinade adds depth and richness to the top sirloin steak, while the combination of vibrant bell peppers and red onions provides a burst of color and freshness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious meal, these kabobs are sure to impress. 

So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a mouthwatering dish that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.

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