Deliciously Savory Grilled Steak Fajitas with Bell Peppers
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these Deliciously Savory Grilled Steak Fajitas with Bell Peppers. This recipe combines tender, marinated steak with colorful bell peppers, all grilled to perfection. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it also offers a feast for the eyes! Perfect for gatherings or a family night in, these fajitas are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
For the Steak Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Fajitas:
- 2 medium bell peppers (one red, one green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- Flour or corn tortillas (8-10)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Avocado or guacamole, for serving (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4-6 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- While the steak marinates, slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. You can mix and match colors for a vibrant presentation.
- Drizzle the sliced vegetables with a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are well-lit and ashy.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
- Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer; 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.
Step 5: Grill the Vegetables
- While the steak is resting, grill the sliced bell peppers and onions in a grill basket or directly on the grill grates.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred.
Step 6: Assemble the Fajitas
- Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
- To assemble, place a few slices of steak on a tortilla, top with grilled peppers and onions, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges, avocado or guacamole, and sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.
Cooking Tips
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Choosing the Right Steak: Flank steak and skirt steak are excellent choices for fajitas due to their flavor and tenderness when marinated. If you prefer a different cut, try sirloin or ribeye, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
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Marination Magic: For the best flavor, marinate the steak overnight if possible. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.
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Grilling Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers for vegetables, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
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Tortilla Choices: Flour tortillas are traditional for fajitas, but corn tortillas are a gluten-free option that pairs well with the savory fillings.
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Make It Your Own: For a vegetarian version, substitute the steak with portobello mushrooms or tempeh, and follow the same marination and grilling process.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve your fajitas with a refreshing side of Mexican street corn salad or a simple avocado salad for a complete meal. A chilled margarita or a light Mexican beer can complement the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These Deliciously Savory Grilled Steak Fajitas with Bell Peppers are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a colorful addition to your dining table. The combination of marinated steak and grilled vegetables wrapped in warm tortillas creates an unforgettable meal.
Encourage your friends and family to gather around the table and enjoy assembling their own fajitas. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!
For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, explore our website and discover the world of flavors waiting for you. Happy cooking and enjoy your fajitas!
For further reading on grilling techniques and marinade ideas, check out The Ultimate Guide to Grilling.
Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor these fantastic fajitas!