Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls
Tender marinated steak, grilled to perfection and served over fluffy rice with fresh cilantro-lime flavor, black beans, corn, avocado, and a drizzle of creamy sauce. A balanced and customizable bowl that’s perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Prep: 20 minutes (+ 30–60 mins marinating)
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: ~1 hr active
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Steak & Marinade:
1 ½ lbs (680 g) flank steak or skirt steak
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice & zest of 2 limes
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp chili powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Rice:
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
Juice & zest of 1 lime
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
Bowl Toppings:
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels
1 large avocado, sliced or cubed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Optional Creamy Drizzle:
½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
Juice of ½ lime
1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Marinate the steak:
In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice/zest, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Add steak, coat well, cover, and marinate 30–60 minutes (up to overnight).
Cook the rice:
Stir lime juice/zest, cilantro, oil/butter, and salt into warm cooked rice. Set aside.
Grill the steak:
Heat grill or skillet over high heat.
Cook steak 4–5 minutes per side (medium-rare to medium), depending on thickness.
Rest 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
Assemble the bowls:
Divide cilantro-lime rice into bowls.
Top with sliced steak, beans, corn, avocado, tomatoes, and red onion.
Drizzle with creamy lime sauce (if using), garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes & Tips
Steak swap: Ribeye or sirloin works too — just adjust cooking time.
Meal prep: Store components separately, assemble fresh.
Make it spicy: Add jalapenos or drizzle with hot sauce.
Low-carb option: Swap rice with cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I cook the steak in the oven?
Yes — broil 4–6 minutes per side until desired doneness.
Q: Can I use chicken instead?
Definitely — marinate the same way and grill or pan-sear.
Q: How do I keep steak juicy?
Don’t overcook, and always let it rest before slicing.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~590
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 8g