Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls

Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls came into my regular meal rotation after one hot afternoon when I was craving something fresh yet hearty and had some leftover grilled steak in the fridge along with a handful of herbs and corn. I didn’t want a heavy meal but still needed something filling so I threw together some rice tossed with lime juice added sliced steak and topped it with avocado and it turned out to be one of the most flavor-packed bowls I’ve ever made.

Since then this dish has become my quick go-to when I need a satisfying lunch or an easy dinner that looks beautiful and feels nourishing. I love the balance of the juicy steak with bright citrusy rice and the creamy avocado brings everything together while the sesame seeds and scallions give that final little pop of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Flank or skirt steak – Thinly sliced and grilled for a flavorful protein base.
• Cooked rice – Acts as the hearty foundation and soaks up all the citrusy goodness.
• Fresh lime juice – Adds brightness and brings out the flavor of the herbs.
• Cilantro – Offers freshness and a signature herbal bite.
• Corn – Brings sweetness and texture to the bowl.
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats to balance the dish.
• Sesame seeds – A simple garnish for crunch and extra nutty flavor.
• Scallions – For a mild onion bite and a burst of green.
• Olive oil – Used for grilling the steak and to flavor the rice lightly.
• Salt and pepper – To season everything just right.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Grill pan or outdoor grill – Ideal for cooking the steak with a nice sear and char.
• Mixing bowl – To toss the rice with lime juice and herbs.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For slicing the steak and chopping toppings.
• Tongs – Helps flip the steak cleanly without piercing it and losing juices.
• Citrus juicer – Makes squeezing fresh lime juice fast and easy.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by seasoning the steak generously with salt pepper and a drizzle of olive oil then I let it sit while I prep the rice and toppings.

Step 2:

I grill the steak on a hot pan or grill for about 3–4 minutes per side until medium-rare or your desired doneness then I let it rest before slicing.

Step 3:

While the steak cooks I toss warm cooked rice with lime juice chopped cilantro a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil until it’s well combined and fragrant.

Step 4:

I prepare the toppings by slicing the avocado chopping scallions and heating the corn if needed.

Step 5:

Once the steak has rested I slice it thinly against the grain for tender strips.

Step 6:

To assemble the bowl I start with the cilantro lime rice then layer on corn sliced steak avocado scallions and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Step 7:

I like to finish with an extra squeeze of lime juice just before serving for that fresh final touch.

Tips

Let the steak rest before slicing to keep the juices locked in.

You can use brown rice quinoa or cauliflower rice depending on your preferences.

If you want extra flavor marinate the steak in lime juice garlic and olive oil for 30 minutes before grilling.

Top with hot sauce or a creamy dressing for an extra kick of flavor.

Ways to Serve

Serve it warm as a hearty lunch or dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Turn it into tacos or burritos by wrapping everything in a tortilla.

Make it meal-prep friendly by storing components separately and assembling bowls fresh.

Pair it with a light side like a cucumber salad or grilled veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of beef in Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls?

Yes sirloin or ribeye also work great just make sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.

Can I make Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls ahead of time?

Yes store everything in separate containers and assemble the bowl fresh when ready to eat.

Can I make Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls dairy-free and gluten-free?

Absolutely it’s naturally dairy-free and just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if adding a dressing.

What can I substitute for cilantro in Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls?

Try using fresh parsley or green onion for a milder but still fresh flavor.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls a try! They’re simple satisfying and perfect for any day of the week. I’d love to see your twist on them or what toppings you like to add!

Happy Cooking!

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