These grilled beef skewers feature tender cubes of marinated sirloin paired with vibrant bell peppers and red onions. After soaking wooden skewers to prevent burning, the beef and vegetables are alternated on skewers, brushed with olive oil, and grilled over medium-high heat until nicely browned and cooked through. Served with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, they offer a delicious, high-protein dish perfect for summer cookouts or quick dinners. Marinating enhances tenderness and deepens flavor.
I still remember the first summer I tried making these beef kebabs with bell peppers. The aroma from the grill instantly took me back to backyard gatherings filled with laughter and the irresistible sizzle of juicy beef meeting hot flames.
One time, unexpected guests stopped by just as I was starting the grill. These kebabs came together so fast and stole the show – everyone asked for seconds before the night was over.
Ingredients
- Beef sirloin or tenderloin: Choose fresh, good quality cuts for tender, flavorful bites every time
- Bell peppers: Using red, yellow, and green peppers makes the skewers a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Marinade ingredients: The combination of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and spices ensures a punch of flavor that marinates deep into the meat
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, pepper, and salt in a large bowl. Toss your beef cubes in, coating them well, and let them rest covered in the fridge to soak in those flavors.
- Soak Your Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least half an hour to keep them from burning up on the grill.
- Assemble Your Kebabs:
- Alternate threading beef chunks and the colorful bell pepper pieces with red onion on your skewers. The anticipation builds as colors stack up.
- Fire Up The Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates with oil so nothing sticks.
- Grill to Perfection:
- Brush your kebabs with olive oil to keep them juicy. Grill them for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every couple of minutes. Watch as the meat browns beautifully and the peppers soften just enough.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once off the grill, let your kebabs rest for 5 minutes to lock in those juices. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for that final zesty touch.
This dish became more than just dinner on a hot summer evening - it was a celebration of close friends and the simple joy of sharing good food straight from the grill.
Keeping It Fresh
Always prep your peppers and onions ahead of time and keep them chilled until you're ready to skewer. Fresh vegetables keep their crunch and sweetness, making each bite satisfying.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
We found serving these kebabs over fluffy rice pilaf or alongside warm flatbread turns a simple meal into a feast. Add a dollop of yogurt sauce or a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, we had a last minute backyard party with no fancy plans. Grabbing these ingredients from the fridge and firing up the grill turned the evening around effortlessly.
- Don't forget to soak your skewers — it's an easy step that most overlook
- If you want to mix it up, throwing cherry tomatoes onto the skewers adds a juicy surprise
- Grilling works great under the broiler if you don't have a grill
Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen and sharing this recipe with me. Here's to many flavorful meals and good company ahead!
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should I marinate the beef?
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Marinating for at least 1 hour is recommended to tenderize the beef and infuse flavors. For best results, marinate up to 8 hours or overnight.
- → Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
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Yes, metal skewers can be used safely without soaking. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- → What cuts of beef work best for these skewers?
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Sirloin or tenderloin cut into uniform 1.5-inch cubes are ideal for even cooking and tenderness.
- → How do I ensure bell peppers stay crisp and flavorful?
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Cut bell peppers into 1.5-inch pieces and thread them on the skewers alternately with beef. Grilling time will soften them slightly while preserving texture.
- → What sides pair well with these grilled beef skewers?
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Rice pilaf, fresh salads, or flatbreads complement the skewers nicely, balancing the savory, smoky flavors.