Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s also good for you? This Steak Fajita Rice Bowl is a perfect healthy bowl recipe that brings all the sizzle of fajitas to your table in a convenient, delicious way. It’s simple to make and packed with amazing taste, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Steak: Flank steak or skirt steak work best. You can substitute chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein.
- Bell Peppers & Onion: Use any color bell peppers you like.
- Rice: Brown rice is recommended for a healthy bowl, but white rice or quinoa also work.
- Fajita Seasoning: A store-bought blend is fine, or make your own with chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors.
Ingredients
Main:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked brown rice per serving
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Fajita Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Salsa
- Greek yogurt or sour cream alternative
- Pico de gallo
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 (depending on toppings)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or cast-iron pan, cutting board, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season Your Steak
In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced steak with the fajita seasoning mix until evenly coated. Make sure every piece gets a good rub down for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for delicious healthy bowl recipes.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp and slightly charred. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
3. Sear the Steak
Add the seasoned steak to the same hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
4. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the steak. Stir everything together, then squeeze in the fresh lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Give it a final toss to combine all the wonderful flavors.
5. Assemble Your Healthy Bowl
Divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls. Top each with a generous serving of the steak and vegetable mixture. Add any of your favorite optional toppings to complete your healthy bowl recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Vegetarian: Use sliced portobello mushrooms or extra firm tofu instead of steak.
- Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños to the vegetables or a dash of hot sauce.
- Grain Change-Up: Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a leafy green base for a low-carb option.
- Extra Veggies: Include corn, black beans, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Steak Fajita Rice Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The flavors often meld even more beautifully the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can slice the steak and vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
What kind of steak is best for fajitas?
Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal because they are lean and absorb marinades well. Make sure to slice them against the grain for tenderness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is moderate. You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the fajita seasoning to your preference.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
You can, but fresh bell peppers and onions will give you the best texture and flavor for this healthy bowl. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly.
How do I make this a low-carb healthy bowl?
Swap the brown rice for cauliflower rice or serve the fajita mixture over a bed of fresh greens.
What if I don’t have all the individual spices for fajita seasoning?
A pre-made fajita seasoning blend works perfectly. Just check the ingredients to ensure it meets your dietary preferences.
