Introduction
Welcome to a vibrant culinary adventure that will brighten up your dinner table! These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls offer a delightful combination of juicy steak, hearty grains, and a splash of zesty freshness. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this dish comes together in just under 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and the vibrant juice of two limes to create a tangy marinade.
- Place the flank steak in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish, pouring the marinade over the meat. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- When ready to cook, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Grill the steak for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare doneness, or until it reaches your desired level of cooking. Once finished, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed.
- To assemble, divide the rice mixture among serving bowls, creating a colorful base.
- Top each bowl with slices of the grilled steak and diced avocado, adding more cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness if desired.
Notes or Tips
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. If you prefer, you can swap the flank steak for chicken or shrimp for a different protein twist. Don’t forget to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the steak gives it a delicious char and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. If grilling isn’t an option, broiling in your oven will work beautifully as well. Just be sure to keep an eye on the steak to prevent overcooking!
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can marinate the steak the night before to let the flavors develop. The rice bowl mixture can also be prepared in advance and assembled before serving.
What can I serve with these steak bowls? A side of tortilla chips and salsa or a fresh garden salad would complement these bowls nicely!
Conclusion
These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Bursting with flavor and texture, this dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a satisfying solo meal. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and introduce this quick and colorful recipe to your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!