Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls: A Zesty, Protein-Packed Dinner You’ll Crave
Molly
These cilantro lime steak and rice bowls are bursting with bold flavor, thanks to tender marinated steak, fresh herbs, and fluffy rice. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or a healthy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep
Cuisine American-Inspired, Tex-Mex
Servings 4 servings
Calories 470 kcal
- 1 lb flank or skirt steak
- 2 limes juiced + 1 tsp zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Marinate the SteakWhisk together lime juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over sliced steak and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Step 2: Cook the RiceRinse the jasmine rice under cold water. In a saucepan, bring rice and water to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Stir in chopped cilantro and a splash of lime juice. Step 3: Sear the SteakHeat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak slices and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked to your preferred doneness. Step 4: Build the BowlLayer cilantro lime rice in each bowl, top with steak, and finish with extra herbs or a lime wedge.
Secret Tips for Cilantro Lime Steak and Rice Bowls
1. Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: Let your steak marinate for at least 4 hours—or overnight if possible. The longer it soaks in the lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
2. Sear Hot and Fast: Use a hot skillet or grill to sear the steak quickly. This locks in the juices and gives your steak that irresistible charred crust.
3. Rest Before Slicing: Always rest your steak for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute so your slices stay tender and juicy—not dry.
4. Use Warm Rice: Serve the bowls with warm, freshly steamed rice. Cold rice won’t absorb the steak juices and zesty cilantro lime flavor as well.
5. Finish with a Fresh Squeeze: Right before serving, hit the bowl with an extra squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of flaky salt. It brightens all the flavors and brings it to life.Keyword cilantro lime steak and rice bowls, easy cilantro lime steak dinner, healthy steak bowl with rice, lime marinated steak bowl, protein packed rice bowl recipe, steak rice bowl meal prep, zesty steak and rice recipe
