Name: Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 flank steaks or sirloin steaks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lime, juiced and zested; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup cooked rice or cauliflower rice; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional); Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

These cilantro lime steak bowls are a perfect choice when you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With a marinade made from zesty lime, cilantro, and garlic, the steak comes out tender and packed with vibrant flavors. Served over rice or cauliflower rice, topped with avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and optional crumbled cheese, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

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

2 flank steaks or sirloin steaks

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 lime, juiced and zested

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup cooked rice or cauliflower rice

1 avocado, sliced

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional)

2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Directions

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Place the steaks in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steaks, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steaks from the marinade and grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain.

To assemble the bowls, start with a base of rice or cauliflower rice. Top with sliced steak, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled cheese (if using). Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Low-carb option: Swap regular rice for cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb meal.

Vegetarian version: Replace the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.

Spicy twist: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or as a topping for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the steak and rice, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Keep the fresh toppings (like avocado and sour cream) separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their freshness.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the steak?

I recommend marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours will give it a deeper flavor. Be careful not to marinate it too long, as the acid from the lime can begin to break down the meat.

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin are the best choices, you can also use skirt steak, ribeye, or even strip steak. Just be mindful of the cooking time depending on the cut.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can marinate the steak and cook it ahead of time, then assemble the bowls when you’re ready to serve. Just store the ingredients separately for freshness.

What other toppings can I add to these bowls?

You can get creative with toppings! Consider adding black beans, corn, grilled peppers, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.

How do I know when the steak is cooked to the right doneness?

For a medium-rare steak, aim for 130°F (54°C) internally. A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check, but if you don’t have one, a general rule is 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, and slightly longer for medium or well-done.

Conclusion

These cilantro lime steak bowls are the perfect combination of flavor, freshness, and convenience. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The marinated steak, paired with fresh, vibrant toppings, makes for a satisfying and healthy meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Recipe:

Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These cilantro lime steak bowls are the perfect combination of tender marinated steak, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime flavors. Served over rice or cauliflower rice, this healthy, easy-to-make meal is ideal for quick dinners or meal prep.