Ultimate Steak Fajitas Recipe

### **Instructions:**

#### **1. Marinate the Steak:**
The key to juicy and flavorful steak fajitas lies in the marinade. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Stir the marinade together until all ingredients are well combined.

Next, place your flank or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, marinating for 30 minutes still gives great results.

#### **2. Cook the Steak:**
Once the steak has marinated, it’s time to cook it. Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, preheat it to high heat. Brush the grill or skillet with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the steak on the grill or skillet and cook it for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more done. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness. Use tongs to flip the steak gently. Avoid overcooking the steak, as this can make it tough.

Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring it stays tender and juicy. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, perfect for fajitas.

#### **3. Sauté the Vegetables:**
While the steak is cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Stir frequently, cooking the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The goal is to get a little char on the edges of the peppers and onions to add a smoky flavor, just like you would get from grilling.

Remove the vegetables from the skillet once they’re done and set them aside.

#### **4. Warm the Tortillas:**
While the steak and vegetables are cooking, warm the tortillas. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for 20-30 seconds, or by heating them individually in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.

#### **5. Assemble the Fajitas:**
Now for the fun part—assembling the fajitas! Start with a warm tortilla and add a few slices of the cooked steak. Top it with a generous portion of sautéed peppers and onions, and then layer on your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese.

#### **6. Serve and Enjoy:**
Fold the tortilla around the fillings and enjoy! Serve the fajitas immediately with extra lime wedges, salsa, or a side of Mexican rice and beans.

### **Why This is the Ultimate Steak Fajitas Recipe:**

1. **Flavorful Marinade:** The combination of lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika makes for a zesty, smoky marinade that infuses the steak with layers of flavor. The cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the meat perfectly.

2. **Perfectly Cooked Steak:** By marinating the steak and cooking it to your preferred doneness, you ensure it remains tender and juicy—never tough or dry. Flank or skirt steak are perfect cuts because they’re flavorful and tender when sliced thinly.

3. **Crispy Veggies:** Sautéing the bell peppers and onions gives them a wonderful caramelized flavor with a bit of char, adding both texture and flavor to the fajitas.

4. **Customizable:** Fajitas are incredibly versatile. You can adjust the toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you love extra spicy salsa, creamy guacamole, or a sprinkle of cheese, you can make the fajitas just the way you like.

5. **Fun to Eat:** Fajitas are a hands-on dish, which makes them a fun choice for family dinners or parties. Everyone gets to assemble their fajitas just the way they like them, making it a personalized and interactive meal.

### **Tips for the Best Steak Fajitas:**

– **Marinate longer for more flavor:** If you have the time, marinate the steak for up to 6 hours. The longer the steak marinates, the deeper the flavor will be.

– **Grill for extra smokiness:** If possible, grilling the steak and vegetables will give your fajitas an extra smoky flavor. It’s worth firing up the grill for that authentic fajita taste.

– **Add some heat:** If you like your fajitas spicy, consider adding some sliced jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables or mixing chili flakes into the marinade.

– **Make it a meal:** For a more complete fajita dinner, serve with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or refried beans. You can also add a fresh salad on the side.

### **Conclusion:**

This **Ultimate Steak Fajitas Recipe** is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with a delicious, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy steak, smoky vegetables, and zesty toppings all wrapped in a soft tortilla is nothing short of amazing. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a weeknight meal, this recipe will satisfy your craving for authentic fajitas every time. So fire up the grill (or skillet), gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy!