Steak Fajitas
Craving a flavorful and vibrant dish? Look no further than steak fajitas! This recipe combines juicy, marinated steak with colorful bell peppers and onions, all sizzling together for a delightful meal. Serve it with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a delicious dinner that will impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that will bring these steak fajitas to life!
Ingredients
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green)
– 1 onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas
– Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, salsa
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 28g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional breakdown is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by marinating the flank steak in olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. While the steak marinates, slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil.
4. Remove the steak from the marinade and place it in the hot skillet.
5. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
6. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
7. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion.
8. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
9. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
10. Serve the steak and vegetables together on warm tortillas, adding your favorite toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute flank steak with chicken or shrimp for a different flavor. You can also use frozen bell peppers if fresh ones are not available. For a vegetarian version, try using portobello mushrooms or tofu.
Serving and Pairings
Steak fajitas pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. You can also serve them with fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, or a simple green salad for a refreshing touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the fajitas in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the steak; it should be medium-rare for optimal tenderness.
– Don’t skip marinating; it enhances flavor significantly.
– Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak to achieve a good sear.
– Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and texture.
– Slice the steak against the grain to maintain tenderness.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the marinade.
– Let the meat rest after cooking to retain juices.
– Warm tortillas on a dry skillet for a few seconds before serving.
– Add a splash of beer to the skillet for a unique taste.
FAQs
What type of steak is best for fajitas?
Flank steak is commonly used for fajitas due to its flavor and tenderness. Skirt steak is also a great choice if you prefer a more beefy taste.
Can fajitas be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and veggies in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and cook them just before serving.
Are steak fajitas healthy?
Steak fajitas can be a healthy option, especially if you load them with vegetables and use whole-grain tortillas. Be mindful of portion sizes and toppings.
What toppings are best for fajitas?
Popular toppings include guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and fresh salsa. You can customize them based on your preferences.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Medium-rare is typically 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium is 140-145°F (60-63°C).
Conclusion
Steak fajitas are a delightful and versatile dish that brings vibrant flavors and satisfying textures to your table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy customizing your fajitas with various toppings and sides to suit your taste!
Steak Fajitas
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 bell pepper red, yellow, or green
- 1 onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas
- Optional toppings: guacamole sour cream, salsa
Instructions
- Marinate the flank steak in olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and place it in the hot skillet.
- Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion.
- Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve the steak and vegetables on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.