Ready for a flavorful, healthy meal that comes together quickly? This Sizzling Steak Fajita Burrito Bowl is packed with vibrant veggies, tender steak, and incredible spices, making it a perfect healthy burrito bowl option for any night of the week. You’ll love how satisfying and easy it is to prepare.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Steak: Flank steak or skirt steak are best. You can substitute with chicken breast or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal and varied flavor. Any color works!
- Onion: Yellow or red onion will do.
- Quinoa: A fantastic base for your healthy burrito bowl. Brown rice or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.
- Black Beans: Canned and rinsed. Pinto beans also work well.
- Avocado: Adds creamy richness. Guacamole is a fine substitute.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors. Don’t skip it!
Ingredients
For the Fajita Steak & Veggies:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (prepare according to package directions)
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup fresh corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 550
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, cutting board, sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Steak
Begin by slicing your flank steak thinly against the grain. This ensures tender bites. Season the steak with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell pepper and red onion to the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften and char slightly. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Steak
Add the seasoned steak to the same hot skillet. Cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is cooked through and slightly browned. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
4. Combine and Build Your Bowls
Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the steak. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Now, it’s time to build your healthy burrito bowl.
5. Assemble and Serve
Divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls. Top each bowl with the steak and vegetable mixture. Add a generous serving of rinsed black beans, fresh corn, and diced avocado. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright finish.
Variation Ideas
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of your favorite healthy dressing.
- Include some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Try adding roasted sweet potatoes for more complex carbohydrates.
- Top with a sprinkle of crumbled low-fat cheese.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Sizzling Steak Fajita Burrito Bowl components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak and veggie mixture gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh avocado and cilantro before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I meal prep this healthy burrito bowl?
A: Absolutely! Cook the quinoa, steak, and veggies, then store them separately. Assemble your bowls just before eating for the best freshness.
Q: What’s the best way to slice flank steak?
A: Always slice against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers, making the steak much more tender.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers and corn. Thaw them before cooking for best results.
Q: How can I make this spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning or include sliced fresh jalapeños in your bowl.
Q: Is quinoa necessary for a healthy burrito bowl?
A: No, you can easily substitute quinoa with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even a bed of fresh greens.
Q: What if I don’t have all the spices?
A: A pre-made fajita seasoning blend can be used in place of individual spices. Just check the ingredients for any added sugars or sodium.
