Flank Steak and Veggie Tacos are a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. These tacos feature tender, marinated flank steak combined with a colorful array of sautéed vegetables, all wrapped in warm tortillas. The combination of juicy steak, fresh veggies, and flavorful seasonings creates a satisfying and well-balanced dish. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or a quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sides.
Ingredients for Flank Steak and Veggie Tacos
For the Flank Steak:
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, chopped tomatoes
How to Make Flank Steak and Veggie Tacos
Step 1: Marinate the Flank Steak
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the steak is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sprinkle with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Flank Steak
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop.
- Remove the flank steak from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
- Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more flavorful and tender steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat, or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven.
- Place a few slices of flank steak and a generous portion of sautéed veggies in each tortilla.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
- Add any additional toppings you like, such as avocado slices, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, or chopped tomatoes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the tacos immediately while the steak and veggies are still warm.
- Enjoy your delicious Flank Steak and Veggie Tacos with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
About the Main Ingredients
Flank Steak
Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the lower chest or abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s known for its rich, beefy flavor and relatively low fat content. Flank steak can be a bit tough if not cooked properly, so marinating it and cooking it to the right temperature is key. Slicing it against the grain is also crucial to ensure tenderness.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers add vibrant color, sweetness, and crunch to the tacos. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds a variety of flavors.
Onions
Onions bring a savory depth to the tacos. When sautéed, they develop a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements the other ingredients. Onions are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to the dish.
Tortillas
Tortillas are the vessel that holds all the delicious components of the tacos together. You can use either flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference. Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, while corn tortillas offer a slightly chewy texture and a distinct corn flavor. Warming the tortillas before assembling the tacos enhances their flavor and makes them more flexible.
Spices
The combination of ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika adds warmth, smokiness, and a touch of heat to the dish. These spices are commonly used in Mexican cuisine and help to create the signature flavor profile of the tacos.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for both marinating the steak and sautéing the vegetables. It adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pan. Olive oil is also a healthy source of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Optional Toppings
Adding toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, and chopped tomatoes allows you to customize your tacos to your liking. These toppings provide additional flavors, textures, and nutrients, making the tacos even more enjoyable.
Flank Steak and Veggie Tacos are a delicious and versatile meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of tender, marinated steak, sautéed vegetables, and warm tortillas creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these tacos with your favorite toppings and sides for a truly memorable meal.
