BEST CILANTRO LIME STEAK BOWLS

Tired of boring dinners that lack serious flavor? Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly seared, juicy steak, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, and drizzled with a vibrant, zesty cilantro lime dressing that makes your taste buds sing! These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls are about to become your new go-to meal – easy to make and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Let’s get cooking and I promise, you’ll LOVE this!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

Steak Marinade

• 1.5 lbs Flank Steak or Skirt Steak
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Lime Juice, fresh
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Cilantro Lime Rice

• 2 cups Cooked Rice (white or brown)
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt to taste

Cilantro Lime Dressing

• 1/2 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Water (or more, to thin if needed)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• Avocado, sliced or diced
• Black Beans, rinsed and drained
• Corn, fresh or frozen (thawed)
• Pico de Gallo
• Shredded Cheese (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Cotija)
• Jalapeños, sliced (optional)
• Red Onion, thinly sliced

Let’s Make Some Magic: Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Steak

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer, the better! But don’t go beyond 4 hours, or the lime juice can start to break down the steak.

Cooking the Steak

1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
2. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat. Alternatively, you can use a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop.
3. Place the steak on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired internal temperature. (130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium).
4. Remove the steak from the grill or skillet and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This is crucial for tender steak!

Preparing the Cilantro Lime Rice

1. While the steak is resting, prepare the cilantro lime rice. If you don’t have pre-cooked rice, cook it according to package directions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Toss well to combine.

Making the Cilantro Lime Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assembling Your Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls

1. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
2. Divide the cilantro lime rice among bowls.
3. Top with the sliced steak, then drizzle generously with the cilantro lime dressing.
4. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, black beans, corn, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and red onion.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Bowls (Every Time!)

Okay, friend, let’s talk about some insider secrets to make your Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls truly exceptional. I want you to feel like a total rockstar in the kitchen!

• Choosing the Right Steak: Flank steak and skirt steak are fantastic choices because they’re flavorful and cook quickly. Just remember to slice them against the grain! If you are looking for a leaner cut, try sirloin.
• Marinating Magic: Don’t skip the marinating step! It infuses the steak with so much flavor and helps to tenderize it. Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but a few hours is ideal.
• Doneness Dilemma: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly as it rests. Undercooking it slightly is better than overcooking it.
• Resting is Key: Seriously, don’t skip the resting period! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
• Rice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of rice. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Quinoa is another great option for a protein-packed bowl.
• Spice It Up (or Down): Adjust the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. If you’re sensitive to heat, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
• Dressing Consistency: The cilantro lime dressing should be creamy and pourable. Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more lime juice or water.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the steak marinade, cilantro lime rice, and cilantro lime dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the bowls. This is a huge time-saver on busy weeknights!

Bowl Building Bonanza: Topping Ideas Galore!

The beauty of these Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls is that they’re totally customizable! Get creative with your toppings and make them your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Classic Combos: Avocado, black beans, corn, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese are always a winning combination.
• Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños, a dollop of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Fresh & Crunchy: Top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, diced cucumbers, or thinly sliced red onions for added texture and freshness.
• Creamy Goodness: Add a dollop of guacamole, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
• Fruity Flair: Diced mango or pineapple adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flavor.
• Unexpected Extras: Try adding roasted sweet potatoes, grilled bell peppers, or even some crumbled bacon for a unique twist.

Beyond the Bowl: Creative Ways to Use Cilantro Lime Steak

Okay, so you’ve mastered the Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls. What’s next? The possibilities are endless! This flavorful steak is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many different ways.

• Tacos & Burritos: Use the sliced steak as a filling for tacos or burritos. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy! If you are looking for a creamy pasta, try this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
• Quesadillas: Layer the steak with cheese and other fillings between tortillas and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Salads: Add the sliced steak to a green salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Use the steak as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Try pairing it with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of cilantro lime dressing.
• Nachos: Top tortilla chips with the steak, cheese, and other toppings and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Steak Fajitas: Slice some bell peppers and onions, and saute them in a pan. Add the steak to the pan and mix together. Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings to make fajitas. Or for a hearty soup check out this Chicken Taco Soup.

More Mexican-Inspired Delights You’ll Adore

Craving more of those vibrant, zesty Mexican flavors? I’ve got you covered! Here are a few more recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds:

• Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili: A creamy, comforting chili with the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn. Perfect for a cozy night in! If you want a rice bowl, try this Birria Style Spicy Rice Bowl.
• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A fun and flavorful twist on classic pasta salad, featuring the sweet and savory flavors of Mexican street corn.

Ready to Bowl? You Got This!

So there you have it, my friend! Everything you need to create the most amazing Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls imaginable. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to find your perfect combination. And most importantly, enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!

BEST Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls

These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls feature perfectly seared steak marinated in a zesty cilantro lime mixture, served over fluffy rice, and drizzled with a creamy cilantro lime dressing. This easy-to-make meal is packed with fresh, vibrant flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs Flank Steak or Skirt Steak
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Lime Juice, fresh
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 2 cups Cooked Rice white or brown
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Water or more, to thin if needed
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Avocado, sliced or diced optional
• Black Beans, rinsed and drained optional
• Corn, fresh or frozen thawed) (optional
• Pico de Gallo optional
• Shredded Cheese Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Cotija) (optional
• Jalapeños, sliced optional
• Red Onion, thinly sliced optional

Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Resealable bag or shallow dish
• Grill pan or outdoor grill or cast-iron skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
4. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
5. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat. Alternatively, you can use a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop.
6. Place the steak on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired internal temperature. (130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium).
7. Remove the steak from the grill or skillet and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
8. While the steak is resting, prepare the cilantro lime rice. If you don’t have pre-cooked rice, cook it according to package directions.
9. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Toss well to combine.
10. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, water, salt, and pepper.
11. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
12. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
13. Divide the cilantro lime rice among bowls.
14. Top with the sliced steak, then drizzle generously with the cilantro lime dressing.
15. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, black beans, corn, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and red onion.
16. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes. Flank steak and skirt steak are great choices for this recipe. Resting the steak after cooking is crucial for tender slices. Adjust the chili powder and red pepper flakes to your spice preference. The steak marinade, rice, and dressing can be made ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator. Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding mango, pineapple, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled bell peppers.