Celebrate island flavors at home with this Hawaiian Steak Feast with Grilled Zucchini & Whipped Feta. A tropical-inspired dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a special occasion—or any night you want a little getaway.
Hawaiian Steak Feast with Grilled Zucchini & Whipped Feta
Our wedding anniversary just passed, and it stirred up some beautiful memories. We were married on a beach in Hawaii, waves crashing softly in the background, and the scent of the ocean carried into every part of that magical day. Ever since, Hawaii has held a special place in my heart—not just for the stunning scenery, but for the food that wrapped itself around every memory.
This past month, I’ve been cooking Hawaiian-inspired dishes to relive a little of that time. One recipe in particular reminds me of our celebration dinner: Hawaiian Steak Feast with Grilled Zucchini & Whipped Feta. Juicy, marinated flank steak grilled until perfectly charred, tender zucchini with a smoky kiss of flame, and a creamy base of whipped feta that ties it all together.
At first glance, the ingredient list might seem a little long, but don’t let that fool you—this dish is wonderfully easy to prepare. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the steak with bright pineapple, mango, and ginger notes while you simply grill and blend. In less than an hour of hands-on time, you’ll have a tropical dinner that feels both special and effortless.
Every bite takes me back to the island breeze and that unforgettable evening. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want to treat yourself to a little taste of paradise, this Hawaiian steak dish is the perfect way to bring the aloha spirit home.
What Ingredients Do I Need?
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this tropical-inspired dish:- Flank Steak – tender, lean, and perfect for soaking up marinade.
- Soy Sauce (low-sodium) – the salty, umami base of the marinade.
- Pineapple Juice – brings natural sweetness and a touch of acidity.
- Brown Sugar – balances the savory flavors with a hint of caramelized depth.
- Rice Vinegar – adds brightness to the marinade.
- Fresh Ginger & Garlic – bold aromatics for that signature island kick.
- Onion Powder & Black Pepper – simple seasoning to round out the flavor.
- Mango Purée – sweet and tropical, pairing beautifully with the pineapple.
- Zucchini – sliced lengthwise for grilling; smoky and tender.
- Olive Oil & Kosher Salt – essential for grilling the vegetables.
- Feta Cheese & Heavy Cream (or milk) – blended into a creamy whipped feta to serve as a luscious base.
Substitutions and Variations
Make this recipe your own with a few simple swaps:- Steak Alternatives: Try skirt steak or sirloin if flank isn’t available. Both grill beautifully.
- Feta Swap: Goat cheese or cream cheese can replace feta for a milder whipped base.
- Dairy-Free Option: Blend feta with a splash of olive oil instead of cream, or use a plant-based feta substitute.
- Veggie Twist: Substitute zucchini with eggplant, bell peppers, or even asparagus for variety.
- Fruit Boost: Add grilled pineapple slices or fresh mango chunks alongside the steak for extra tropical flair.
- Heat Lovers: Stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the marinade for a sweet-spicy balance.
Kitchen Tips and Notes
- Marinade Time: Keep it between 4–8 hours. Too short and the flavors won’t penetrate; too long and the steak can become mushy from the fruit enzymes.
- Pat the Steak Dry: Before grilling, blot the meat with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear instead of steaming.
- Grill Hot & Fast: Flank steak cooks best over high heat for a short time—this keeps it tender and juicy.
- Slice Against the Grain: This is key! Cutting thin slices against the grain ensures the steak is tender, not chewy.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The whipped feta can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temp before serving.
- Serving Idea: Spread the whipped feta on the platter before topping it with sliced steak and zucchini—it makes for a beautiful presentation.
