Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls Flavorful and Fresh Meal

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- 1 lb flank steak - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Juice and zest from 2 limes - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 cup cooked brown rice - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 ripe avocado, sliced - 1 cup corn (fresh or canned) - ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped - Lime wedges, for serving When I make these bowls, I start with the main ingredients. Flank steak gives a rich flavor. The olive oil helps with cooking. Minced garlic adds a great taste. Lime juice brings a fresh zing. The zest adds even more lime flavor. Next, I mix in the seasoning ingredients. Honey balances the acidity of lime. Chili powder gives a slight kick. Ground cumin adds depth. Salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper gives a nice finish. For the bowl toppings, I choose cooked brown rice as a base. It’s hearty and filling. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Sliced avocado brings creaminess. Corn gives a crisp texture. Fresh cilantro brightens each bite. Lime wedges are a must for that extra burst of zest! These ingredients work together to create a flavorful and fresh meal. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, gather your ingredients. In a small bowl, combine: - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Juice and zest from 2 limes - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Whisk them all together until smooth. This marinade bursts with flavor. The lime adds a fresh zing, while honey balances the heat. Next, take your flank steak and place it in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavors, marinate up to 2 hours. This step makes the steak tender and tasty. When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Check for doneness by cutting into it. For medium-rare, it should be slightly pink in the middle. After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Now, it’s time to build your bowls. Start with 1 cup of cooked brown rice as the base in each bowl. Next, layer the sliced steak right on top. Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and corn. Finally, pile on a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro. For a zesty kick, squeeze a lime wedge over each bowl. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant meal! For the best flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, try 2 hours. This lets the flavors soak in deeper. The lime juice tenderizes the meat while adding a fresh kick. Make sure to coat the steak well with the marinade. To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. Slicing against the grain makes each bite tender and enjoyable. For a beautiful bowl, use colorful dishes. Layer the ingredients neatly for a great look. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Drizzle extra lime juice on top for more zest. Enjoy your colorful and fresh meal! Pro Tips Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if possible. This allows the meat to absorb the marinade fully, enhancing its taste. Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the steak on it. This helps to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Slicing Technique: Always slice the steak against the grain. This helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. Serving Freshness: Add the avocado and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. This will enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your steak bowls. {{image_4}} You can easily change the protein in these bowls. Chicken breast works well. Simply marinate it like the steak. Shrimp is another tasty option. It cooks fast and absorbs flavors quickly. If you want a vegetarian meal, try grilled tofu or tempeh. Both soak up the marinade nicely. This way, you can enjoy cilantro lime bowls no matter your diet. Don't feel stuck with the same ingredients. You can swap brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both options add a unique twist. If you want more crunch, replace cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers. You can also use black beans or pinto beans for added protein. The toppings can vary too. Try pickled onions, jalapeños, or even shredded cheese for a fun mix. To kick up the flavor, add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Both can give your dish a little extra heat. You can also drizzle some chipotle sauce on top for a smoky touch. Another option is to mix yogurt with lime juice for a creamy dressing. This adds a nice balance to the zesty flavors. Don't be afraid to get creative; your taste buds will thank you! To keep your steak bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers. Place the rice, steak, and toppings in separate sections. This helps prevent sogginess. Refrigerate the bowls within two hours of cooking. They stay good for about three days. Just remember to seal the containers well. You can freeze the components of your steak bowls. First, cool the steak completely before slicing. Then, place the sliced steak in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Store the cooked rice in another airtight bag. You can freeze these for up to three months. Avoid freezing toppings like avocado and tomatoes; they don’t freeze well. To reheat, I recommend using the stovetop or microwave. For the stovetop, warm the steak in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. For the microwave, cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. This will help maintain the steak's juicy flavor and keep the rice fluffy. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh! Yes, you can make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls ahead of time. Prepare the steak and the rice a day or two in advance. Store each component in separate airtight containers. When you are ready to eat, just assemble the bowls. Reheat the steak and rice gently. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. If you cannot find flank steak, there are great options. You can use skirt steak, sirloin, or chicken breast. For a vegetarian choice, try grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu. Each option works well with the marinade and adds unique flavors. To make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade. Most other ingredients are already gluten-free. Always check labels to avoid hidden gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this fresh meal. Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a large batch of steak and rice. Divide them into containers for the week. Add fresh toppings like tomatoes and avocado just before eating. This makes healthy meals easy and quick! In this post, we explored making delicious cilantro lime steak bowls. You learned the key ingredients, including flank steak, spices, and tasty toppings. We covered the step-by-step process from marinating to grilling. You picked up useful tips to enhance flavor and presentation. Finally, we discussed variations and how to store or prep this dish ahead. Enjoy creating your own bowls with these easy steps. You’ll impress everyone and savor every bite!

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Craving a fresh, vibrant meal that explodes with flavor? These Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls are just what you need! Packed with juicy marinated flank steak, zesty lime, and colorful toppings, this dish combines health and taste in one bowl. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. Let’s dive in and create a dish that will impress your taste buds!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: This marinade combines zesty lime and aromatic garlic, creating a mouthwatering profile that elevates the flank steak.
  2. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, these steak bowls are perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  3. Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Healthy and Satisfying: This dish packs in protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies, making it a nutritious meal option.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb flank steak

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Juice and zest from 2 limes

Seasoning Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Bowl Toppings

– 1 cup cooked brown rice

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 ripe avocado, sliced

– 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)

– ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

– Lime wedges, for serving

When I make these bowls, I start with the main ingredients. Flank steak gives a rich flavor. The olive oil helps with cooking. Minced garlic adds a great taste. Lime juice brings a fresh zing. The zest adds even more lime flavor.

Next, I mix in the seasoning ingredients. Honey balances the acidity of lime. Chili powder gives a slight kick. Ground cumin adds depth. Salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper gives a nice finish.

For the bowl toppings, I choose cooked brown rice as a base. It’s hearty and filling. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Sliced avocado brings creaminess. Corn gives a crisp texture. Fresh cilantro brightens each bite. Lime wedges are a must for that extra burst of zest!

These ingredients work together to create a flavorful and fresh meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

To start, gather your ingredients. In a small bowl, combine:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Juice and zest from 2 limes

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Whisk them all together until smooth. This marinade bursts with flavor. The lime adds a fresh zing, while honey balances the heat.

Marinating the Steak

Next, take your flank steak and place it in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavors, marinate up to 2 hours. This step makes the steak tender and tasty.

Grilling the Steak

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Check for doneness by cutting into it. For medium-rare, it should be slightly pink in the middle. After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy.

Assembling the Bowls

Now, it’s time to build your bowls. Start with 1 cup of cooked brown rice as the base in each bowl. Next, layer the sliced steak right on top. Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and corn. Finally, pile on a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro. For a zesty kick, squeeze a lime wedge over each bowl. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant meal!

Tips & Tricks

Marinating Time Options

For the best flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, try 2 hours. This lets the flavors soak in deeper. The lime juice tenderizes the meat while adding a fresh kick. Make sure to coat the steak well with the marinade.

Achieving Perfectly Grilled Steak

To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. Slicing against the grain makes each bite tender and enjoyable.

Presentation Tips

For a beautiful bowl, use colorful dishes. Layer the ingredients neatly for a great look. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Drizzle extra lime juice on top for more zest. Enjoy your colorful and fresh meal!

Pro Tips

  1. Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if possible. This allows the meat to absorb the marinade fully, enhancing its taste.
  2. Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the steak on it. This helps to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
  3. Slicing Technique: Always slice the steak against the grain. This helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.
  4. Serving Freshness: Add the avocado and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. This will enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your steak bowls.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can easily change the protein in these bowls. Chicken breast works well. Simply marinate it like the steak. Shrimp is another tasty option. It cooks fast and absorbs flavors quickly. If you want a vegetarian meal, try grilled tofu or tempeh. Both soak up the marinade nicely. This way, you can enjoy cilantro lime bowls no matter your diet.

Ingredient Swaps

Don’t feel stuck with the same ingredients. You can swap brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both options add a unique twist. If you want more crunch, replace cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers. You can also use black beans or pinto beans for added protein. The toppings can vary too. Try pickled onions, jalapeños, or even shredded cheese for a fun mix.

Flavor Enhancements

To kick up the flavor, add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Both can give your dish a little extra heat. You can also drizzle some chipotle sauce on top for a smoky touch. Another option is to mix yogurt with lime juice for a creamy dressing. This adds a nice balance to the zesty flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative; your taste buds will thank you!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your steak bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers. Place the rice, steak, and toppings in separate sections. This helps prevent sogginess. Refrigerate the bowls within two hours of cooking. They stay good for about three days. Just remember to seal the containers well.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the components of your steak bowls. First, cool the steak completely before slicing. Then, place the sliced steak in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Store the cooked rice in another airtight bag. You can freeze these for up to three months. Avoid freezing toppings like avocado and tomatoes; they don’t freeze well.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, I recommend using the stovetop or microwave. For the stovetop, warm the steak in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. For the microwave, cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. This will help maintain the steak’s juicy flavor and keep the rice fluffy. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh!

FAQs

Can I make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls ahead of time. Prepare the steak and the rice a day or two in advance. Store each component in separate airtight containers. When you are ready to eat, just assemble the bowls. Reheat the steak and rice gently. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty.

What can I substitute for flank steak?

If you cannot find flank steak, there are great options. You can use skirt steak, sirloin, or chicken breast. For a vegetarian choice, try grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu. Each option works well with the marinade and adds unique flavors.

How do I make the dish gluten-free?

To make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade. Most other ingredients are already gluten-free. Always check labels to avoid hidden gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this fresh meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a large batch of steak and rice. Divide them into containers for the week. Add fresh toppings like tomatoes and avocado just before eating. This makes healthy meals easy and quick!

In this post, we explored making delicious cilantro lime steak bowls. You learned the key ingredients, including flank steak, spices, and tasty toppings. We covered the step-by-step process from marinating to grilling. You picked up useful tips to enhance flavor and presentation. Finally, we discussed variations and how to store or prep this dish ahead.

Enjoy creating your own bowls with these easy steps. You’ll impress everyone and savor every bit

- 1 lb flank steak - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Juice and zest from 2 limes - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 cup cooked brown rice - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 ripe avocado, sliced - 1 cup corn (fresh or canned) - ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped - Lime wedges, for serving When I make these bowls, I start with the main ingredients. Flank steak gives a rich flavor. The olive oil helps with cooking. Minced garlic adds a great taste. Lime juice brings a fresh zing. The zest adds even more lime flavor. Next, I mix in the seasoning ingredients. Honey balances the acidity of lime. Chili powder gives a slight kick. Ground cumin adds depth. Salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper gives a nice finish. For the bowl toppings, I choose cooked brown rice as a base. It’s hearty and filling. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Sliced avocado brings creaminess. Corn gives a crisp texture. Fresh cilantro brightens each bite. Lime wedges are a must for that extra burst of zest! These ingredients work together to create a flavorful and fresh meal. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, gather your ingredients. In a small bowl, combine: - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Juice and zest from 2 limes - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Whisk them all together until smooth. This marinade bursts with flavor. The lime adds a fresh zing, while honey balances the heat. Next, take your flank steak and place it in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavors, marinate up to 2 hours. This step makes the steak tender and tasty. When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Check for doneness by cutting into it. For medium-rare, it should be slightly pink in the middle. After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Now, it’s time to build your bowls. Start with 1 cup of cooked brown rice as the base in each bowl. Next, layer the sliced steak right on top. Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and corn. Finally, pile on a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro. For a zesty kick, squeeze a lime wedge over each bowl. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant meal! For the best flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, try 2 hours. This lets the flavors soak in deeper. The lime juice tenderizes the meat while adding a fresh kick. Make sure to coat the steak well with the marinade. To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. Slicing against the grain makes each bite tender and enjoyable. For a beautiful bowl, use colorful dishes. Layer the ingredients neatly for a great look. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Drizzle extra lime juice on top for more zest. Enjoy your colorful and fresh meal! Pro Tips Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if possible. This allows the meat to absorb the marinade fully, enhancing its taste. Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the steak on it. This helps to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Slicing Technique: Always slice the steak against the grain. This helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. Serving Freshness: Add the avocado and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. This will enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your steak bowls. {{image_4}} You can easily change the protein in these bowls. Chicken breast works well. Simply marinate it like the steak. Shrimp is another tasty option. It cooks fast and absorbs flavors quickly. If you want a vegetarian meal, try grilled tofu or tempeh. Both soak up the marinade nicely. This way, you can enjoy cilantro lime bowls no matter your diet. Don't feel stuck with the same ingredients. You can swap brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both options add a unique twist. If you want more crunch, replace cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers. You can also use black beans or pinto beans for added protein. The toppings can vary too. Try pickled onions, jalapeños, or even shredded cheese for a fun mix. To kick up the flavor, add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Both can give your dish a little extra heat. You can also drizzle some chipotle sauce on top for a smoky touch. Another option is to mix yogurt with lime juice for a creamy dressing. This adds a nice balance to the zesty flavors. Don't be afraid to get creative; your taste buds will thank you! To keep your steak bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers. Place the rice, steak, and toppings in separate sections. This helps prevent sogginess. Refrigerate the bowls within two hours of cooking. They stay good for about three days. Just remember to seal the containers well. You can freeze the components of your steak bowls. First, cool the steak completely before slicing. Then, place the sliced steak in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Store the cooked rice in another airtight bag. You can freeze these for up to three months. Avoid freezing toppings like avocado and tomatoes; they don’t freeze well. To reheat, I recommend using the stovetop or microwave. For the stovetop, warm the steak in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. For the microwave, cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. This will help maintain the steak's juicy flavor and keep the rice fluffy. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh! Yes, you can make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls ahead of time. Prepare the steak and the rice a day or two in advance. Store each component in separate airtight containers. When you are ready to eat, just assemble the bowls. Reheat the steak and rice gently. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. If you cannot find flank steak, there are great options. You can use skirt steak, sirloin, or chicken breast. For a vegetarian choice, try grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu. Each option works well with the marinade and adds unique flavors. To make Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade. Most other ingredients are already gluten-free. Always check labels to avoid hidden gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this fresh meal. Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a large batch of steak and rice. Divide them into containers for the week. Add fresh toppings like tomatoes and avocado just before eating. This makes healthy meals easy and quick! In this post, we explored making delicious cilantro lime steak bowls. You learned the key ingredients, including flank steak, spices, and tasty toppings. We covered the step-by-step process from marinating to grilling. You picked up useful tips to enhance flavor and presentation. Finally, we discussed variations and how to store or prep this dish ahead. Enjoy creating your own bowls with these easy steps. You’ll impress everyone and savor every bite!

Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls

A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring marinated flank steak served over brown rice with fresh toppings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb flank steak
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 limes juice and zest
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup corn
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • to taste lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
  • Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag and pour the prepared marinade over the meat, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld; for an even more intense taste, marinate for up to 2 hours.
  • Preheat a grill or a stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and discard the remaining marinade.
  • Grill the flank steak for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time according to your preferred level of doneness. After grilling, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness.
  • To assemble the bowls, evenly distribute the cooked brown rice into four bowls as the base. Layer the sliced steak on top, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and corn.
  • Finish by garnishing each bowl with a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro. Squeeze a lime wedge over each bowl for an extra splash of zesty flavor.

Notes

For a vibrant display, serve each steak bowl in colorful dishes. Drizzle additional lime juice over the contents and add a sprinkle of extra cilantro for a delightful, fresh touch to each serving.
Keyword bowl, cilantro, healthy, lime, steak

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