This healthy burrito recipe combines lean steak with zesty chimichurri for a fresh and satisfying meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this flavor-packed dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Lean Steak: Flank steak, sirloin, or top round work best. You can substitute with lean ground turkey or chicken for a different texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro are essential for chimichurri. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can be used in a pinch but fresh is highly recommended.
- Large Tortillas: Whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas are great options. Lettuce wraps make a lighter, low-carb alternative.
- Bell Peppers: Any color works; feel free to mix them up. Zucchini or mushrooms are good additions too.
Ingredients:
For the Chimichurri:
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Steak and Burritos:
- 1 pound lean steak (flank, sirloin, or top round), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (any color)
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 large whole wheat tortillas
- 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (optional)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 (varies based on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chimichurri
Combine chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
2. Season and Cook the Steak
Pat the thinly sliced steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through, turning once. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a little bite for texture in your healthy burrito.
4. Assemble Your Burritos
Warm the tortillas according to package directions. Lay out each tortilla and spread a spoonful of chimichurri down the center. Top with cooked steak, sautéed vegetables, and optional brown rice and black beans.
5. Finish and Serve
Drizzle a little more chimichurri over the fillings and squeeze fresh lime juice over everything for a bright finish. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to create your delicious healthy burrito.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a sprinkle of shredded low-fat cheese before rolling.
- Include a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy tang.
- For extra crunch, add finely shredded cabbage or lettuce.
- Spice it up with a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover burritos wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes or warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you make the chimichurri ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chimichurri up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully.
Q: What kind of steak is best for this healthy burrito recipe?
A: Lean cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or top round are excellent choices for this healthy burrito recipe due to their lower fat content and tenderness when thinly sliced.
Q: How do you prevent the burritos from getting soggy?
A: Make sure your cooked steak and vegetables are not overly wet. You can also place a layer of cooked rice or beans at the bottom of the tortilla to act as a barrier.
Q: Can you freeze these burritos?
A: While you can freeze them, the vegetables and chimichurri may become a bit watery upon thawing. If freezing, consider assembling without the chimichurri and adding it fresh after reheating.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Cook the steak and vegetables, prepare the chimichurri, and store them separately. Assemble your healthy burrito fresh right before eating for the best texture and flavor.
Q: What if you don’t like cilantro?
A: You can omit the cilantro and use extra parsley in the chimichurri. You might also add a touch of fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
