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Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls

Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls: A Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight

Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls are a burst of flavor and customization, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Steak Marinade
  • 1 pound Flank or Skirt Steak Choose cuts with good marbling for maximum flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice Adds acidity for marinade; substitute with lemon for a different citrus touch.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Provides moisture and helps with marinating.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances flavor profile; use garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds a warm, earthy note to the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Provides a mild heat; adjust to your desired spice level.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing the flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper For a touch of heat and complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Brings depth and a subtle smokiness to the dish.
For the Rice Base
  • 2 cups Cooked White Rice Base for the bowls; substitute with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped) Essential for color and flavor; parsley can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (for rice) Brightens the flavors of the rice; extra lemon juice can work in a pinch.
For the Toppings
  • 1 can Black Beans (canned, drained and rinsed) Adds fiber and protein; Pinto beans can be an alternative.
  • 1 cup Corn Sweet crunch component; frozen corn can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Avocado (sliced) Adds creaminess; substitute with guacamole if preferred.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion (thinly sliced) Provides distinct sharpness; raw shallots or green onions can work too.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Adds freshness; any small diced tomato is acceptable.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Pico de Gallo or Salsa Fresh topping for enhancement; can replace with any preferred condiment.
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt Use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan option.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • saucepan
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined. Place your flank or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 24 hours.
  2. While the steak marinates, cook your white rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, add fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt while it is still warm.
  3. In a small saucepan, heat canned black beans with a sprinkle of cumin and salt over medium-low for about 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through.
  4. Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat and add the corn. Sauté the corn for about 5–8 minutes until it becomes golden and charred.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  6. Remove your marinated steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Preheat a grill or skillet over high heat. Sear the steak for about 4–6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.
  7. Once the steak has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain into thin strips.
  8. Start layering your bowls by placing cilantro lime rice at the bottom. Add black beans, charred corn, avocado slices, red onion, cherry tomatoes, sliced steak, shredded cheese, and pico de gallo. Drizzle with the creamy dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Let your steak marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, for best flavor aim for 24 hours. Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

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