Tips for Experienced Cooks
To elevate the flavors, consider toasting the whole spices before grinding them for the spice mix; this will release their essential oils and intensify their aromas. For the dressing, balance is key: taste as you go and adjust the lime juice, olive oil, and honey to achieve the perfect harmony of acidity, richness, and sweetness. For an added layer of flavor, grill the steak instead of pan-cooking it, which will add a smoky note complementing the smoked paprika. Additionally, consider making a quick pickled onion to top the salad for an extra zing.
Step 1: Prepare the spice mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the following spices:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Season the sliced flank steak with the spice mixture.
Step 2: Cook the steak
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Step 4: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients to make the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
Step 5: Assemble the salad
To assemble the salad, divide mixed greens among four plates. Top each plate with the cooked steak, sautéed peppers and onion, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle the dressing over the top of each salad and serve immediately.
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 1 pound flank steak
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 1 whole red bell pepper
- 1 whole yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 whole red onion
- 2 whole roma tomato
- 1 whole avocado
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 1 whole lime
- 4 cups mixed greens
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
