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A steak fajita salad combines tender, sizzling slices of marinated steak with crisp, colorful bell peppers and onions, served atop a fresh bed of greens, often garnished with avocado, cheese, and a zesty lime dressing, creating a hearty yet refreshing meal.
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Protein Packed Mexican Salad
Steak fajita salad is a culinary masterpiece that masterfully marries the bold, robust flavors of seasoned steak with the fresh, vibrant notes of a traditional salad. The steak, typically marinated in a blend of zesty lime juice, cumin, garlic, and chili, brings a rich depth of flavor that is both smoky and slightly spicy. When grilled or pan-seared to perfection, it develops a tantalizing charred exterior that encapsulates the tender, juicy meat within. This savory and hearty element of the salad is the star, providing a satisfying contrast to the lighter components. The seasoning of the steak, often featuring a mix of paprika, onion powder, and other spices, imparts a warm, earthy aroma that is quintessential to fajita dishes.
The salad component of the dish introduces a refreshing counterbalance to the savoriness of the steak. Crisp greens, such as romaine lettuce or a spring mix, lay the foundation, offering a cool, crunchy texture. They are accompanied by an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes, each contributing their own unique flavors – sweet, sharp, and tangy. Often, additional toppings like sliced avocado, black beans, and corn are added, enriching the salad with creamy, earthy, and sweet notes. The dressing, usually a zesty lime vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing, ties the dish together, adding a bright acidity or a smooth richness, respectively. This harmonious blend of flavors – the umami and smokiness of the steak, the freshness of the greens, the sweetness of the vegetables, and the tanginess of the dressing – makes the steak fajita salad a delightful and satisfying meal that tantalizes the palate with every bite.
What to Enjoy with Steak Fajita Salad
Enjoying a steak fajita salad can be a complete meal experience when paired with the right accompaniments. Here’s a list of items that go well with it:
Warm Flour or Corn Tortillas: Perfect for making mini wrap bites with the salad.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Adds a smoky, sweet flavor that complements the steak.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty and refreshing side that pairs well with the flavors in the salad.
Black Beans: Either in a salad or as a side, they add a hearty element.
Guacamole: A creamy addition that enhances the richness of the steak.
Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa that adds a burst of flavor.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Provides a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy fajita flavors.
Cheese Quesadillas: A cheesy, crispy side that’s comforting and satisfying.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory steak.
Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing for any Mexican-inspired dish.
Margaritas or Sangria: Refreshing beverages that complement the bold flavors of the fajita salad.
Churros or Flan: For a sweet finish to the meal.
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Steak Fajita Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp high-heat oil, I use peanut
- 1 ½ lb beef, fajita meat
- 1 onion, halved and cut into thin strips
- 1 bell pepper, halved and cut into thin strips
- 2 oz taco seasoning
- ½ cup cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup black or pinto beans, optional
- Salsa, optional
Instructions
- Heat 2 cast irons pan in oven at 450 degrees.
- Prep veggies and meat- let meat come to room temperature and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Turn vent fan on high.
- Turn stove on high, carefully move very hot cast iron pans from oven to stovetop.
- Add oil to pans, swirl around.
- Add meat to one pan, carefully (don’t splatter oil when adding meat in, as it will be very hot!)
- Add veggies to other pan.
- Stir veggies and meat to prevent burning, but let them get a good browning on all sides- about 8 minutes.
- If using taco/fajita seasoning, add to pan with 2 tbsp water, right before plating. Cook off any extra water.
- Remove from heat and plate! If you want to create a “sizzle” sound like at a restaurant, splash a little water or a touch of soy sauce and oil in the pan.
- Plate your salad with lettuce, tomatoes, beans. Layer fajita veggies and meat on top, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over.
- Dress with salsa, if preferred.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
