1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade will infuse the steak with deep, zesty flavors.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place your steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your steak will be!
3. Cook the Steak:
Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is usually best for fajitas). For a perfect sear, avoid moving the steak around too much. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the steak is resting, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slice the Steak:
After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This will ensure each bite is tender and flavorful.
6. Assemble the Fajitas:
Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven. Place the sliced steak, cooked vegetables, and any desired toppings (cheddar cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, fresh cilantro) on the tortillas.
7. Serve:
Serve your steak fajitas hot with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the top to enhance the flavors. Enjoy each bite of this delicious, savory dish!
Tips for Perfection:
- Marinate Overnight: For a deeper flavor, marinate the steak overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat fully.
- High Heat for Searing: Searing the steak over high heat ensures a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Toppings Galore: Customize your fajitas with your favorite toppings. Consider adding sliced jalapeños for extra spice or fresh avocado slices for creaminess.
This Steak Fajitas recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will make any dinner feel special. Dive into this recipe and savor the irresistible taste of homemade fajitas that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this culinary delight with friends and family!