Steak Fajitas are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table. This recipe features tender, marinated steak, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all served sizzling hot and wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, steak fajitas are easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
The key to great fajitas is the marinade, which infuses the steak with a delightful blend of spices and acidity, tenderizing the meat while enhancing its natural flavor. Whether you prefer to grill or cook your steak on the stovetop, these fajitas are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fajitas:
- 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cilantro, and lime wedges
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade.
Step 2:
Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 3:
While the steak is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the bell peppers and onion and set them aside.
Step 4:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
Step 5:
Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender.
Step 6:
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Step 7:
Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. Add the steak back to the skillet with the cooked peppers and onions, tossing everything together for a minute to heat through.
Step 8:
Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave. To serve, fill each tortilla with the steak and vegetable mixture and add your favorite toppings.
Variation
- Chicken Fajitas: Substitute flank steak with boneless chicken breasts or thighs, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
- Vegetarian Fajitas: Replace the steak with a combination of mushrooms, zucchini, and extra bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Fajitas: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetables for an extra kick.
COOKING Note:
- For the best flavor, allow the steak to marinate for several hours if possible. If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marinade will enhance the taste.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak to get a nice sear, which locks in flavor and juices.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the fajitas with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Provide a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, fresh avocado, and pico de gallo for guests to customize their fajitas.
Tips:
- Leftover fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- For meal prep, you can marinate the steak and slice the vegetables ahead of time to make dinner preparation quick and easy.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
What type of steak is best for fajitas?
Flank steak or skirt steak are traditional choices due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.
Can I grill the steak instead of using a skillet?
Absolutely! Grilling will give the steak a wonderful smoky flavor. Just be sure to monitor the temperature for the best results.
How can I prevent the steak from becoming tough?
Be sure to slice the steak against the grain, and don’t overcook it to maintain tenderness.
Conclusion
Steak Fajitas are a delicious and satisfying meal that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine to your home. With tender, marinated steak and colorful sautéed vegetables, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, steak fajitas are sure to become a family favorite.
Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful homemade meal that everyone will love!