Flank Steak Bowls: The Ultimate Flank Steak Bowls with Cilantro Lime Crema Recipe
Introduction to Flank Steak Bowls
Flank steak bowls are a vibrant and flavorful meal that combines tender steak with a variety of fresh toppings. This dish is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste. With the addition of a zesty cilantro lime crema, each bite bursts with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, these bowls are sure to satisfy your cravings!
A Personal Story Behind My Flank Steak Bowls Journey
I remember the first time I tried flank steak bowls at a local restaurant. The combination of flavors and textures was unlike anything I had experienced before. The juicy flank steak paired with fresh vegetables and creamy avocado left a lasting impression on me. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to recreate this dish at home, tailoring it to my family’s tastes. Now, it’s a staple in our household, and I love sharing it with friends and family!
What Makes This Flank Steak Bowls Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its simple yet flavorful marinade made from olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. The marinade not only infuses the steak with incredible taste but also helps to tenderize it. Additionally, the toppings are fully customizable, allowing for endless variations to please everyone at the table. Whether you prefer black beans, corn, or fresh tomatoes, each ingredient adds a unique flavor that enhances the overall dish.
The Full Flank Steak Bowls Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds flank steak
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ cup minced cilantro
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cilantro lime crema (click for recipe)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, cilantro, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade for the steak. This marinade will add incredible flavor to the meat.
- Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the steak is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Marinating helps to tenderize the steak and enhance its flavor.
- Heat a cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated steak to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature (about 145°F for medium-medium/well). Remember, cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the steak.
- After cooking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender. Then, slice the steak into strips or cubes.
- To assemble your bowls, start with a base of cooked white rice. Top with black beans, corn, diced avocado, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and the cooked steak. Drizzle with cilantro lime crema for added flavor. Feel free to customize each bowl as you like!
- For extra variety, consider adding chopped lettuce or sautéed bell peppers and onions. These additions can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your meal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Flank Steak Bowls
Flank steak bowls are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even a dollop of sour cream. For a healthier option, swap out the white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Additionally, you can easily substitute the flank steak with other proteins like chicken or shrimp for a different flavor profile. These bowls are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flank Steak Bowls
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye, but flank steak is a great option due to its flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.
How do I know when the steak is done cooking?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check. For medium steak, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing for the best results.
Can I make the cilantro lime crema ahead of time?
Absolutely! The crema can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It enhances in flavor as it sits, making it even more delicious!
What can I serve with flank steak bowls?
These bowls can be enjoyed on their own or paired with sides like tortilla chips and salsa, a fresh side salad, or grilled vegetables. They are perfect for gatherings and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 4
Flank Steak Bowls with Cilantro Lime Crema
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.25 pounds flank steak
- 0.33 cup olive oil
- 1 whole lime, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 0.5 cup minced cilantro
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 whole avocado, diced
- 0.5 whole red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 recipe cilantro lime crema click for recipe
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, cilantro, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade for the steak.
- Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the steak is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Heat a cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated steak to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature (about 145°F for medium-medium/well).
- After cooking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, slice the steak into strips or cubes.
- To assemble your bowls, start with a base of cooked white rice. Top with black beans, corn, diced avocado, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and the cooked steak. Drizzle with cilantro lime crema for added flavor.
- Feel free to add extra toppings like chopped lettuce or sautéed bell peppers and onions for more variety!