Ready for a delightful culinary adventure? This easy steak bowl recipe combines tender marinated flank steak with vibrant fresh veggies and your choice of base, providing not only a feast for your appetite but also an explosion of flavors. Perfect for a satisfying dinner or meal preps, each bite is designed to please and nourish, making your weeknight cooking simple and exciting!
Budget Information
The total cost for this delicious steak bowl recipe is approximately $15.00, which breaks down to about $3.75 per serving (serves 4 people). Here’s a quick look at the costs of the main ingredients:
- Flank steak (1 lb): $8.00
- Cooked rice (2 cups): $2.00
- Bell pepper (1): $1.00
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): $1.00
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): $0.50
- Soy sauce (1 tbsp): $0.50
- Salt and pepper: $0.30
Why This Recipe Works
Why settle for standard dinners when you can whip up something colorful and flavorful like this steak bowl? The steak is marinated to perfection, infusing it with delicious tangy hints, while the combination of fresh vegetables and whole grains gives it that hearty yet healthy vibe. Plus, it’s super customizable! Each person can tailor their bowl to their liking—so everyone at the table leaves satisfied. It’s quick, rewarding, and downright enjoyable!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
To create this scrumptious steak bowl, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb of flank steak ($8.00) – Substitute with sirloin or chicken if desired.
- 2 cups of cooked rice (white or brown) ($2.00) – You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced ($1.00) – Feel free to experiment with any color of bell pepper or even use zucchini.
- 1 cup of broccoli florets ($1.00) – Broccolini or snow peas are great alternatives.
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce ($0.50) – Try tamari for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil ($0.50) – Avocado oil can be substituted if you prefer.
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.30)
Having these ingredients on hand will not only lead to a fantastic meal but also encourage you to get creative with flavors!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start off by marinating your flank steak. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, a sprinkle of salt, and black pepper. Make sure the steak is well-coated and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The longer you marinate, the more flavor gets infused.
Step 2: While the steak is soaking up all those delicious flavors, get your rice cooking according to package instructions. Whether you choose white rice, brown rice, or quinoa, it’s essential to have a solid base for your steak bowl.
Step 3: Once marinated, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. After the oil is hot, carefully lay the flank steak in the skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until you achieve that delightful sear you’re after. You want it to be beautifully browned but slightly pink on the inside. After cooking, take it out and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing it thinly!
Step 4: In the same skillet, toss in your sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, just until they turn vibrant and tender but still retain that crunch. You can add a dash of salt here for extra flavor!
Step 5: Now it’s time to assemble your masterpiece! In each bowl, start with a generous scoop of rice, layer on those sautéed veggies, and top it off with your flavorful flank steak slices. Feel free to add any extra toppings you love, like avocado or fresh herbs, to truly personalize each bowl.
Step 6: Lastly, step back and admire your creation—then dig in! Enjoy the incredible mix of textures and the burst of flavors that make this meal such a keeper.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Total fats: 18g
- Saturated fat: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! The steak bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat for a few minutes, or toss it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. To keep things fresh, you might want to add a splash of water or more soy sauce when reheating to revive the moisture.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your steak bowl experience, consider pairing it with a light cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing crunch. You can also whip up a tangy chipotle mayo or lime crema to drizzle on top. And don’t forget about sides—tortilla chips for a little crunch or roasted corn for a sweet bite can turn your meal into a fiesta!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
My top tip? Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is incredibly versatile, so experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Also, if you’re batch cooking for the week, consider prepping the steak and rice in advance, assembling your bowls right before you eat. And remember, presentation matters! A well-arranged bowl is as tasty as it is beautiful.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat? Absolutely! If flank steak isn’t available, sirloin or even chicken breast work wonderfully too.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari), this dish can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this vegetarian? Certainly! Replace the steak with grilled tofu or tempeh, and you’re good to go.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you’re a fan of heat, add some minced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha over the top before serving!
What other toppings should I consider? The sky’s the limit! Try adding black beans, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or even fresh guacamole for a delightful twist.
