Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, simple, and full of flavor. I always reach for quality cuts of steak that are well-marbled for tenderness, and fresh bell peppers and onions that still have a bit of crunch. My mom taught me early on that even the simplest ingredients, when treated well, can create magic in the kitchen. That’s why I avoid pre-packaged spice blends and prefer to mix my own fajita seasoning for that authentic, homemade taste.
- 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Substitutions: If you prefer, chicken breast or turkey strips work well too. Swap brown rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, and adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting cayenne.
Instructions
- Start by mixing chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This homemade fajita spice blend makes all the difference.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak and sprinkle half the spice blend over it. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove steak and set aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the sliced peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sprinkle the remaining spice blend over the veggies and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they’re tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. Return the steak slices to the skillet just to warm through, mixing gently with the vegetables.
- To assemble, spoon cooked brown rice or quinoa into bowls. Top with the steak fajita mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl, recipe, cooking, food
