Contents
Introduction
Steak fajitas are a delicious and easy meal perfect for any occasion. Bursting with flavor from a blend of spices and grilled vegetables, this recipe provides a quick way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have sizzling fajitas on the table in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 cloves garlic, minced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1½ pounds flat iron steak
2½ tablespoons canola oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
1 red onion, cut into wedges
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy your homemade easy steak fajitas for a satisfying meal that everyone will love! Serve with tortillas, pico de gallo, and guacamole for the perfect finish.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it is hot before you begin cooking the steak.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Season the Steak
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the flat iron steak to ensure it is well-coated.
Step 4: Oil the Steak
Brush 1 tablespoon of canola oil over the seasoned steak to enhance moisture and flavor during grilling.
Step 5: Grill the Steak
Place the steak on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Vegetables
While the steak is resting, toss the red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion with the remaining 1½ tablespoons of canola oil. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference.
Step 7: Grill the Vegetables
Place the seasoned vegetables on the grill. Cook them, turning occasionally, until they are charred and tender, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once the steak has rested, thinly slice it against the grain. Serve the sliced steak alongside the grilled bell peppers and onion.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving the fajitas with warm tortillas, pico de gallo, and guacamole to enhance flavor and texture.
Steak Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the steak—130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for additional flavors and textures in your fajitas.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Grilling
Grilling is a method of cooking food over direct heat. It provides a smoky flavor and charred texture that can enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it perfect for fajitas.
Seasoning
Properly seasoning the meat is essential for enhancing its flavor. In this recipe, the combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful crust on the steak when grilled.
Resting the Steak
Resting the steak after grilling allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This results in a more tender and juicy steak when sliced.
Tossing Vegetables
Tossing the vegetables with oil and seasoning before grilling ensures they are evenly coated. This technique helps achieve a balance of flavors while ensuring they cook uniformly.
Slicing Against the Grain
Slicing the steak against the grain is important for tenderness. It breaks up the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts like skirt steak or flank steak. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness.
How can I tell when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer; medium-rare is around 130°F to 135°F. For other levels of doneness, adjust accordingly.
Can I use vegetables other than bell peppers and onions?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn based on your preference.
What toppings are good for fajitas?
Common toppings include sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa, shredded cheese, and lettuce.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This Easy Steak Fajitas recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a delicious meal. The combination of perfectly seasoned steak and grilled vegetables creates a satisfying dish that can be easily customized to your taste. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, these fajitas are sure to impress.
Chicken Fajitas
Swap the steak for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, and follow the same seasoning and grilling instructions for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Fajitas
Replace the steak with a mix of grilled mushrooms, zucchini, and squash, seasoned similarly for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Fish Tacos
Use firm fish like mahi-mahi or tilapia, seasoned with lime and cumin, grilled and served in tortillas with cabbage and salsa for a fresh twist.
Shrimp Fajitas
Substitute shrimp for the steak, marinating them briefly in the same seasoning and quickly grilling for a seafood version of this classic dish.
Fajita Quesadillas
Use the steak and vegetables from the fajitas, add cheese, and grill between tortillas for a cheesy, handheld option.
Breakfast Fajitas
Incorporate scrambled eggs with the grilled vegetables for a delicious breakfast or brunch meal. Serve with tortillas and avocado.
