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Steak Fajita Rice Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice

A delicious Tex-Mex dish featuring marinated steak, sautéed vegetables, and zesty cilantro lime rice, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Ingredients

For the steak marinade

  • 1 lb flank or skirt steak
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the rice

  • 1 cup long grain rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt to taste

For the veggies

  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 medium red onion sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for veggies)

Optional toppings

  • Sliced avocado optional
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt optional
  • Fresh salsa or pico de gallo optional
  • Shredded cheese optional
  • Lime wedges optional

Instructions

Marinate the steak

  • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  • Add the steak and ensure it’s well-coated; let marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in the fridge).

Prepare the rice

  • In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
  • Add the uncooked rice and a pinch of salt, cover it, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes until tender.
  • Once done, stir in lime juice, cilantro, and either olive oil or butter. Fluff the rice and set aside.

Cook the veggies

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  • Toss in the sliced peppers and onions, sauté until tender and lightly charred, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the steak

  • Grill or sear the marinated steak in a hot skillet or grill pan for about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time as necessary.
  • Let rest for about 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

Assemble the bowls

  • Start with a base of cilantro lime rice, layer on sautéed veggies, sliced steak, and finish with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the steak overnight. Don't skip the resting time for the steak; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite. Feel free to add black beans or corn for texture and nutrition. Popular toppings include diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and various salsas.