Description
This steak fajita salad is loaded with bold, fresh, and zesty Mexican-inspired flavors! Tender slices of marinated sirloin steak, crisp bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado sit atop a bed of romaine and butter lettuce. Drizzle with the homemade creamy cilantro lime dressing for a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Steak:
- 1 1/2 pounds top sirloin steak (sliced against the grain into 1/2-inch strips; flank or skirt steak can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (or use the following):
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups butter lettuce or baby greens mix
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (whole or halved)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 green or yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 Hass avocado (sliced or cubed)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely minced
For the Dressing:
- 3/4–1 cup fresh cilantro (loosely measured)
- 1/2 large ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or thick Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2–1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup water (or more for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak:
- Combine all steak ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Toss to coat, cover, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours). If marinating for more than 30 minutes, refrigerate and let sit at room temperature for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
- Cook the Steak:
- Heat a grill, grill pan, or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Cook steak for 2–3 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Remove and let rest.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine romaine, butter lettuce, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and avocado.
- Make the Dressing:
- Blend cilantro, avocado, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, apple cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Add water gradually to achieve desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Toss the salad with half the dressing. Add steak slices and drizzle with remaining dressing. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Salad components (stored separately) last up to 4–5 days in the fridge. Dressing may last 3–4 days but may darken due to oxidation. Stir before use.
- Make Ahead: Steak can be marinated and dressing prepared ahead of time. Assemble salad just before serving for freshness.
- Customization: Substitute steak with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg