Are you ready to transform your mealtime into a nutritious and flavorful experience? The Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is here to shake up your lunch or dinner routine with its rich, bold flavors and eye-catching presentation. This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful journey of textures and tastes that hits all the right notes for your palate. From the perfectly seared steak to the fluffy quinoa, and not to forget the smoky roasted corn, this bowl has everything you need to feel satisfied and nourished.
This delicious bowl features a creamy cilantro sauce that adds a zesty kick, creating a perfect harmony between the different ingredients. The freshness of the avocado complements the savory steak, while the roasted corn brings a delightful sweetness. Whether you’re in need of an easy meal prep option or a fresh and filling dish to serve to guests, this bowl does not disappoint. Imagine digging into a bowl that is not only pleasing to the eye but also packed with nutrients and flavor! You’ll love how simple and quick this recipe is, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl
This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s also about the many benefits and appeal it brings:
- Flavorful & Exciting: The combination of ingredients offers layers of flavor that will excite your taste buds.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein from the steak and healthy fats from the avocado, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Quick & Easy: This meal can be prepared in just 35 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe with different proteins or veggies to suit your preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and you have healthy lunches ready to go!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this exciting culinary adventure, let’s ensure your kitchen is set up for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients to streamline your cooking experience. Measure out your quinoa, chop your veggies, and have your seasoning ready. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process a breeze.
For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Prepare a medium saucepan for cooking the quinoa, preferably with a lid. You will also need a skillet or grill pan for searing the steak and roasting the corn. A blender will be crucial for whipping up that creamy cilantro sauce. Finally, a sharp knife and cutting board for slicing the avocado and steak will help create the perfect presentation for your bowls.
Ingredients
To achieve the fantastic flavors in this Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb flank or skirt steak
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 ears corn or 1 1/2 cups corn kernels
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 avocado
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp water (if needed to thin)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa in cold water, which helps remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or broth, adding a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water has been absorbed. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cilantro Cream Sauce
While your quinoa cooks, you can prepare the cilantro cream sauce. In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water a little at a time if the consistency is too thick. This zesty sauce will elevate the flavors of your bowl, so tasting and adjusting the salt as needed is essential.
Step 3: Roast the Corn
For the corn, you have options: you can grill it or cook it in a hot skillet. If you’re using whole corn ears, place them directly on the grill or in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Roast until the corn is lightly charred, taking care to turn it regularly for even cooking, about 8-10 minutes. Once the corn is roasted, allow it to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
Step 4: Sear the Steak
Next, it’s time for the star of the dish—the steak! Season the flank or skirt steak generously with salt and black pepper. Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat, then place the steak in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the cooking time to your preference. Once perfectly cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
To put everything together, start with a base of quinoa in your bowl, then layer on the sliced steak, roasted corn, and diced avocado. Drizzle the cilantro cream sauce generously over the top, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up or customize your bowl, consider these delicious variations:
- Protein: Swap the steak for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a plant-based option.
- Vegetables: Add some grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to kick the flavor up a notch.
Cooking Notes
Here are some helpful notes to ensure your dish comes out perfectly:
- Use high-quality meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Cooking time for the steak may vary based on thickness, so adjust your approach if needed.
- Don’t rush the resting period for the steak; it helps retain the juices, making each bite more flavorful.
- Feel free to use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn isn’t available; just sauté them in the skillet until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Consider these ideas for serving your Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl:
- Pair it with a light salad for added greens and freshness.
- Serve with tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch.
Tips
To maximize your cooking experience and enjoy the best flavors, remember these tips:
- Preheat your skillet before adding the steak to ensure a good sear.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the cream sauce.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process; your preferences should guide the dish.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 2-3 days for best quality.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 540 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 420mg
FAQs
Can I prepare the cilantro cream sauce in advance?
Yes! You can make the cilantro cream sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving as it may thicken over time.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the steak?
Absolutely! You can substitute the steak with grilled or roasted vegetables, marinated tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their freshness and prevent sogginess.
Can I use different grains instead of quinoa?
Yes! This bowl is versatile, so feel free to substitute quinoa with brown rice, farro, or even couscous to suit your tastes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce not only delivers on flavor and nutrition, but it also provides a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you stick to the original recipe or switch it up with different proteins, vegetables, and spices, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With its vibrant colors and mouth-watering taste, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion, whether a simple family dinner or a special gathering. Don’t forget to share your versions and experiences; we would love to hear from you. Enjoy cooking and savoring this fantastic bowl, and remember to keep experimenting with flavors and ingredients to make it your own!
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Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is a nutritious and flavorful dish combining rich textures and tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank or skirt steak
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 ears corn or 1 1/2 cups corn kernels
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 avocado
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp water (if needed to thin)
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the quinoa in cold water, which helps remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or broth, adding a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water has been absorbed. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.
- While your quinoa cooks, you can prepare the cilantro cream sauce. In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water a little at a time if the consistency is too thick. This zesty sauce will elevate the flavors of your bowl, so tasting and adjusting the salt as needed is essential.
- For the corn, you have options: you can grill it or cook it in a hot skillet. If you’re using whole corn ears, place them directly on the grill or in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Roast until the corn is lightly charred, taking care to turn it regularly for even cooking, about 8-10 minutes. Once the corn is roasted, allow it to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
- Next, it’s time for the star of the dish—the steak! Season the flank or skirt steak generously with salt and black pepper. Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat, then place the steak in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the cooking time to your preference. Once perfectly cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- To put everything together, start with a base of quinoa in your bowl, then layer on the sliced steak, roasted corn, and diced avocado. Drizzle the cilantro cream sauce generously over the top, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
Cooking time for the steak may vary based on thickness; adjust your approach if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Protein: 32 g