Name: Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak; ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; ½ cup red onion, diced; ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); Extra cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

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Short description
Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful meal that combines juicy marinated flank steak, aromatic spices, and fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro. This colorful bowl is packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep or a satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance of bold, zesty flavors and fresh ingredients. The marinated steak is tender and juicy, and the combination of rice, beans, corn, and vegetables brings a satisfying variety of textures to each bite. The cilantro and lime add a refreshing twist that elevates the entire dish, making it a delicious, healthy, and customizable meal. It’s also a great option for those who love Mexican-inspired flavors!

Ingredients

1 pound flank steak
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
½ cup red onion, diced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Extra cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Steak: In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the flank steak and coat it well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours, to marinate.
Prepare Rice and Beans: Cook rice according to the package directions. In a small saucepan, heat the black beans over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt or cumin if desired. If using fresh corn, briefly boil or sauté it. Heat frozen corn as needed.
Cook the Steak: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the marinade. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or cook to your preferred doneness (130°F for medium-rare). Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Add black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and diced red onion. Top with the sliced steak and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Garnish: Finish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for serving. Enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the steak and substitute with a hearty protein like grilled portobello mushrooms or extra beans.
Spicy Option: Add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce to the bowls for an extra kick.
Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for more texture and flavor.
Cheese Swap: If you prefer, you can use other cheeses like queso fresco or shredded cheddar instead of feta.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover steak, rice, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the steak and rice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. If preferred, you can quickly reheat the steak on a skillet for a few minutes. Add fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, other cuts like skirt steak or ribeye can also work. Just be sure to adjust cooking time based on thickness.

Can I make the steak bowls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the steak, rice, beans, and toppings ahead of time, storing everything in the fridge. Just assemble the bowls when ready to serve.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a diced jalapeño, a few dashes of hot sauce, or even chili flakes to the marinated steak or as a topping.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or any other grain you prefer.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any packaged ingredients like seasoning or beans are certified gluten-free.

Can I make the marinade the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade the night before and store it in the refrigerator to save time the next day.

Can I substitute the avocado with something else?

If you’re not a fan of avocado, try using guacamole, sour cream, or a different creamy topping like Greek yogurt.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese option.

Can I use ground beef instead of flank steak?

Yes, you can use ground beef or ground turkey. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before assembling the bowls.

Can I freeze the steak and rice?

The steak and rice can be frozen separately, but the fresh toppings like avocado and tomatoes are best added just before serving.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls offer a satisfying mix of fresh, zesty flavors and tender steak. It’s a versatile and customizable dish that can easily be adapted to suit your tastes, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Whether you enjoy it with fresh veggies, beans, or a little spice, this bowl is sure to be a hit!