This vibrant and satisfying meal brings together juicy cilantro-lime marinated steak, fluffy rice, creamy avocado, sweet corn, hearty black beans, and a refreshing lime crema. It’s a balanced, colorful bowl that’s perfect for warm-weather grilling or anytime you crave bold, fresh flavors inspired by Tex-Mex cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls deliver a full meal in one bowl, combining protein, grains, vegetables, and a bright, zesty dressing. The marinade infuses the steak with citrus and herbs, keeping it tender and flavorful. The toppings are versatile, so everyone at the table can customize their bowl. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that feels special but comes together with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs flank steak
1/2 cup avocado oil or olive oil
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 2 limes
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 cups cooked rice or riced cauliflower
2 avocados, sliced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, heated
1 can (15 oz) corn, heated
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 red onion, diced

For the lime crema:
1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons Tajin seasoning
Juice of 1 lime

Directions

1. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the steak, ensuring all sides are coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 3 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated steak on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes per side, or until it reaches your preferred doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain or cut into cubes.
5. Prepare bowls with a base of cooked rice. Top with sliced steak, avocado, black beans, corn, cheddar cheese, and diced red onion.
6. Make the lime crema by mixing sour cream, Tajin, and lime juice until smooth. Drizzle over the bowls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Total time: approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes

Variations

• Use riced cauliflower instead of rice for a lighter option.
• Substitute grilled chicken or mushrooms for the steak.
• Add toppings like grilled onions, diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or black olives.
• Make cilantro lime rice for even more citrus flavor.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or queso fresco for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers for the best texture.

• Steak: Refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Rice, beans, and corn: Refrigerate for 3–4 days; reheat in the microwave.
• Avocado: Best sliced fresh before serving.
• Lime crema: Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

FAQs

Can I marinate the steak overnight?

Yes, but limit it to about 8 hours since the lime juice can break down the meat too much if left longer.

What cut of meat can replace flank steak?

Skirt steak or sirloin work well and absorb the marinade beautifully.

Can I cook the steak indoors?

Absolutely. A grill pan or cast-iron skillet works great on the stovetop.

Is Tajin necessary for the lime crema?

It adds great flavor, but you can replace it with a pinch of chili powder and extra lime zest.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Use dairy-free sour cream or yogurt for the crema and omit the cheese.

Can I prepare the toppings in advance?

Yes, most toppings can be prepped a day ahead, except avocado which is best cut fresh.

What rice works best?

White rice, jasmine rice, brown rice, or cilantro lime rice all pair well.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes. Grilled corn cut off the cob adds wonderful flavor.

How do I keep the steak tender?

Avoid overcooking, and always slice against the grain after letting it rest.

Can I turn this into meal prep?

Yes. Assemble bowls without avocado or crema, then add those fresh before eating.

Conclusion

These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls combine bright, bold flavors with wholesome ingredients to create a meal that’s both delicious and customizable. Perfect for grilling season or any time you want a fresh, satisfying dish, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite at your table.

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