Steak fajitas are a beloved Tex-Mex dish known for their vibrant flavors and simplicity. This recipe showcases tender steak strips with colorful peppers and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, steak fajitas offer a satisfying meal that can be customized to suit various tastes.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make delicious steak fajitas at home, including the recipe, tips for perfecting the dish, and ideas for variations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein and veggies.
- Versatile: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Appeals to Various Diets: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or low-carb diets.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Flour tortillas, for serving
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, guacamole
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowls
Directions:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Marinate the Steak:
- In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add sliced steak to the bowl and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Steak and Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated steak slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook onions and bell peppers until they are tender and slightly charred, about 5-6 minutes.
- Assemble the Fajitas:
- Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine and heat through.
- Serve the steak and vegetables mixture warm in flour tortillas. Top with optional toppings as desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control spiciness.
- Grill Option: Grill the steak and vegetables for a smokier flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute steak with portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Storing Leftovers:
- Store leftover steak fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or skillet until warmed through.
Food and Drink Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad.
- Drinks: Pair with margaritas, Mexican beer, or refreshing lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze leftover fajitas? Yes, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How do I know when the steak is cooked? Steak should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (medium rare) to 160°F (medium).
Call to Action:
Try making these flavorful steak fajitas for your next dinner! They’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Enjoy cooking and bon appétit!