Tips for Experienced Cooks
For an impeccable flavor balance, consider toasting the spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika) in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the marinade. This small step will enhance their flavors significantly. Additionally, after cooking the steak, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This ensures that the juices redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier steak. To elevate the presentation and enhance flavors, consider a sprinkle of coarse sea salt over the final dish just before serving.
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Add the sliced flank steak and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep warm.
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Marinated steak from Step 1
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cilantro lime rice among four bowls. Top with the cooked steak, sautéed peppers and onions, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Cooked rice from Step 2
- Cooked steak from Step 3
- Sautéed vegetables from Step 4
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 1 pound flank steak
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 2 whole bell pepper
- 1 large onion
- 1 whole avocado
- 1 whole lime
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Seasonings & Spices
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon salt