Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowl
This Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowl is a flavor-packed, wholesome meal with juicy marinated steak, fluffy herbed rice, and a fresh cilantro-lime dressing. It’s balanced, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean–Latin flair — perfect for lunch or dinner!
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Total: 45–50 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Steak Marinade
450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lime
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cilantro Lime Rice
1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
2 cups water or low-sodium broth
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Juice and zest of ½ lime
2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
Salt, to taste
For the Dressing
½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lime
2 tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to tast
For the Bowl
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ avocado, sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup corn
2 tbsp crumbled feta or cotija cheese
Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add steak and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.
2. Cook the Rice
In a pot, heat olive oil or butter.
Add rice and toast for 1 minute.
Pour in water/broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until fluffy (about 12–15 minutes).
Stir in lime zest, juice, cilantro, and salt.
3. Grill or Pan-Sear the Steak
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook steak 4–5 minutes per side (for medium), depending on thickness.
Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
4. Make the Cilantro Lime Dressing
In a small bowl, mix yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Assemble the Bowls
Spoon cilantro-lime rice into bowls.
Top with sliced steak, cherry tomatoes, avocado, onion, and corn.
Drizzle with cilantro-lime dressing and sprinkle with feta.
Tips
Add grilled bell peppers or zucchini for more Mediterranean balance.
Swap rice for quinoa or farro for a higher-fiber option.
If you prefer creamy spice, add a touch of harissa or sriracha to the yogurt sauce.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with:
Warm pita or flatbread
A side of roasted sweet potatoes or chickpeas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Keep the steak, rice, and toppings separate in containers. Assemble before eating.
Q: What cut of steak works best?
Flank, sirloin, or skirt steak — they’re flavorful and cook quickly.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely — replace steak with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~560
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g