The Mixed Grill Platter with Fresh Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings together perfectly grilled beef and chicken, sweet charred vegetables, and a zesty, herbaceous salad. Ideal for weekend BBQs, family gatherings, or casual dinners, this dish is a colorful celebration of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Let’s break down everything you need to know about preparing this delicious, satisfying meal.
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
- Meat Marinade
This marinade is key to infusing your meats with bold, aromatic flavors.
500g beef cubes (sirloin or tenderloin): Provides juicy, tender bites with a rich flavor.
500g chicken cubes (breast or thigh): Thighs offer juiciness, while breasts are lean and tender.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps coat the meat and locks in moisture.
2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and tenderizes the meat.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings depth and pungency.
1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and color.
1 tsp ground cumin: Earthy, warm spice that’s essential in Middle Eastern grills.
1/2 tsp black pepper & 1/2 tsp salt: Basic seasoning.
1/4 tsp chili powder (optional): For a mild heat kick.
- Grilled Vegetables
8 pearl onions: Naturally sweet and perfect for grilling.
4 small tomatoes, halved: Juicy and slightly tangy; they caramelize beautifully on the grill.
Olive oil & salt: To season and prevent sticking on the grill.
- Fresh Salad
2 cups fresh parsley, chopped: Refreshing, herbaceous, and rich in vitamin C.
1 small red onion, thinly sliced: Adds crunch and a peppery bite.
1 tsp sumac: A tangy Middle Eastern spice that balances richness.
Juice of 1 lemon & 2 tbsp olive oil: Classic salad dressing components.
Salt to taste: Enhances all the salad flavors.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
🥩 Step 1: Marinate the Meat
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, pepper, salt, and chili powder.
Divide the marinade between the beef and chicken in two separate bowls.
Mix well, cover, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
🍅 Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Peel the pearl onions and halve the tomatoes.
Lightly toss them in olive oil and sprinkle salt to season.
🔥 Step 3: Grill the Meat and Veggies
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread beef and chicken onto separate skewers (this ensures even cooking).
Grill:
Chicken and beef for 8–10 minutes, turning to sear all sides.
Pearl onions and tomatoes until they have grill marks and are tender.
🥗 Step 4: Make the Salad
In a bowl, combine chopped parsley, sliced red onion, and sumac.
Add lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt.
Toss gently just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
🍽️ Step 5: Assemble the Platter
On a large platter, arrange:
Beef and chicken skewers
Grilled pearl onions and tomatoes
A generous mound of the fresh parsley salad
Serve with warm flatbread, pita, or steamed rice for a full meal.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats like lamb or fish?
Absolutely! Lamb cubes can be substituted for beef, and firm fish like salmon or swordfish work well too—just adjust the grill time accordingly.
What’s a good vegetarian option for this platter?
Replace the meat with marinated tofu or halloumi cheese, and add more grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Is sumac essential in the salad?
Sumac provides that signature tangy flavor, but if unavailable, you can substitute it with a little extra lemon zest or a splash of vinegar.
Can I bake or pan-sear instead of grilling?
Yes. If you don’t have a grill:
Bake skewers at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes.
Pan-sear in a hot skillet until cooked through and golden.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep meat and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The parsley salad is best eaten fresh but can be kept for 1 day.
🧂Tips for the Perfect Mixed Grill
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Marinate overnight for more flavor.
Let meats rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep them juicy.
Use different colored tomatoes or onions for a more colorful presentation.
Serve with yogurt sauce or garlic tahini for extra flavor.
🥙 Serving Suggestions
Pair your Mixed Grill Platter with:
Warm pita or naan
Basmati rice or couscous
Garlic sauce, hummus, or tzatziki
A side of grilled halloumi or falafel
🌟 Final Thoughts
This Mixed Grill Platter with Fresh Salad is more than a meal—it’s a shared experience. Perfect for summer nights, festive gatherings, or cozy dinners, it blends the smokiness of grilled meat, the sweetness of roasted vegetables, and the zing of fresh herbs.