Name: Steak, Avocado, and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak (or your preferred cut of beef, such as skirt steak); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ears of corn, husked (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels); 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional); 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce if necessary)

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This Steak, Avocado, and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The juicy, tender steak is complemented by creamy avocado, sweet roasted corn, and a zesty cilantro cream sauce that ties all the flavors together. Each bite is packed with fresh ingredients, making it a balanced and wholesome meal. Whether you’re craving something light but filling or want to impress your guests with a unique dish, this bowl is sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Packed with Flavor

From the smoky, roasted corn to the creamy avocado and perfectly seasoned steak, this bowl is bursting with delicious flavors that complement each other beautifully.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals. The preparation is straightforward, and the cooking time is minimal.

3. Healthy and Nutrient-Rich

With ingredients like lean steak, fresh avocado, and corn, this bowl is packed with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. It’s a great choice for a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied.

4. Customizable

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Add in extra veggies, change up the protein, or swap the cilantro cream sauce for something else to suit your tastes.

5. Colorful and Beautiful

This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The vibrant colors of the steak, avocado, corn, and cilantro make it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Ingredients

Flank or sirloin steak
Avocados
Fresh corn on the cob (or frozen/canned corn)
Olive oil
Lime juice
Garlic
Fresh cilantro
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Salt and pepper
Chili powder (optional)
Fresh greens or lettuce (optional, for extra freshness)

Variations

Grilled Veggies: For added flavor and nutrition, you can grill or roast vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini alongside the corn.
Chicken Instead of Steak: If you prefer chicken, grilled chicken breast or thighs would work wonderfully in place of the steak.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free sour cream alternative or simply make a cilantro lime dressing with olive oil, lime juice, and fresh cilantro if you want to avoid dairy.
Add Rice or Quinoa: For extra carbs and heartiness, you can serve this bowl over a bed of rice or quinoa, making it even more filling.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Corn

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk, then drizzle the corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the corn on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Once the corn is roasted, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing off the kernels.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

While the corn is roasting, season the steak with salt, pepper, and chili powder (if desired). Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Cook the steak to your desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Make the Cilantro Cream Sauce

In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, fresh cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until smooth. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice or cilantro to taste. If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

To assemble, start with a base of fresh greens or lettuce if using. Then, layer in the roasted corn, sliced steak, and avocado. Drizzle the cilantro cream sauce generously over the top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish the bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Rest the Steak: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure the juices stay inside the meat and the steak remains tender.
Customize Your Toppings: Add extras like sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, or a handful of shredded cheese to customize your bowl to your taste.
Use Fresh Corn: While frozen or canned corn works in a pinch, fresh corn adds a delicious sweetness and texture that makes the dish special.
Grill for Extra Flavor: If you have access to a grill, grilling the steak and corn adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.

How to Serve

Serve this Steak, Avocado, and Roasted Corn Bowl as a main dish for lunch or dinner. The creamy cilantro sauce makes it rich enough to stand on its own, but you can pair it with a light side salad or some warm tortillas for a more complete meal. You could also serve it with a refreshing margarita or a cold iced tea for the perfect pairing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover ingredients, store the steak, corn, and cilantro cream sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak and corn will keep for about 2-3 days. The cilantro cream sauce can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing

The steak and corn can be frozen, but the avocado and cilantro cream sauce are best enjoyed fresh. To freeze, store the cooked steak and corn in freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat.

Reheating

To reheat the steak and corn, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Be sure to add a little moisture (like a splash of broth or water) if reheating in a pan to prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn can be used instead of fresh corn. Just sauté it in a little olive oil until warmed through, or use it directly in the bowl without roasting.

2. What other proteins can I use?

In addition to steak, you could use grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.

3. Can I make the cilantro cream sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the cilantro cream sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

4. Can I serve this without avocado?

If you’re not a fan of avocado, you can leave it out or substitute it with another creamy ingredient, like Greek yogurt or a dollop of sour cream.

5. How do I know when the steak is done?

For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, go for 140-145°F. You can also check doneness by pressing on the steak; it should feel firm but with some give for medium-rare.

6. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can easily add spice by incorporating chili powder, red pepper flakes, or even a few dashes of hot sauce into the cilantro cream sauce.

7. Can I make this dish in advance?

While the steak and corn can be cooked in advance, the bowl is best assembled fresh to avoid wilting the avocado and greens. You can prepare the steak and corn ahead of time and assemble when ready to serve.

8. Can I use a different sauce?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can use a creamy lime dressing or a salsa verde as an alternative sauce.

9. How do I prevent the steak from getting tough?

Make sure to let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. Also, slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

10. Can I add beans or rice to the bowl?

Absolutely! Adding black beans, pinto beans, or rice can bulk up the bowl and make it even heartier.

Conclusion

This Steak, Avocado, and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is a fresh and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and delicious vegetables, making it a wholesome option for lunch or dinner. With customizable ingredients and a zesty cilantro cream sauce that ties everything together, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the vibrant colors, textures, and bold flavors with every bite!