Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl

This Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is my go to when I want something bright fresh and a bit indulgent You get the juicy bite of steak creamy avocado pops of sweet roasted corn and the zing of fresh cilantro all layered over hearty quinoa It is as pretty as it is delicious and makes for a special yet totally doable dinner

Every time I make this everyone asks for seconds It first came about on a summer evening when I had leftover steak some corn and a handful of cilantro and now it is a requested favorite when family visits

Ingredients

• Flank steak: Choose well marbled steak for tenderness Look for bright red color and minimal gristle
• Ripe avocado: A creamy ripe avocado adds the perfect richness Slightly soft to the touch is best
• Corn kernels: Sweet corn gives crunch and sweetness Fresh kernels sliced off the cob are ideal but frozen works too
• Quinoa: This is the hearty base I like to rinse mine before cooking for the fluffiest results
• Fresh cilantro: Brings a burst of herbal flavor Buy a bunch with perky leaves for maximum freshness
• Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the sauce and the whole bowl Use a plump lime for plenty of juice
• Sour cream: The creamy base for the sauce Choose full fat for richness
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and zip Fresh cloves give the best flavor
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors Use kosher or sea salt for most balanced taste
• Pepper: Fresh ground black pepper adds subtle heat
• Olive oil: Choose a good extra virgin olive oil for both searing and sautéing

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Steak:

Set the flank steak on your counter for about thirty minutes before cooking so it is room temperature Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to lock in flavor

Sear the Steak:

Heat a heavy skillet over medium high and drizzle in olive oil When the oil shimmers lay in your steak Sear for four to five minutes per side for medium rare Flip only once so you get a good crust

Rest and Slice:

After cooking move the steak to a plate and let it rest for at least five minutes This keeps the juices in Slice thinly against the grain using a sharp knife for tenderness

Roast the Corn:

In the same skillet add a touch more olive oil and toss in the corn Cook over medium heat for five to seven minutes stirring just a couple times so you get some golden brown spots and a bit of char

Mix the Cilantro Cream Sauce:

In a small mixing bowl combine sour cream chopped cilantro minced garlic and lime juice Stir until smooth Taste and add salt as needed

Build the Bowls:

Start each bowl with a bed of fluffy cooked quinoa Arrange the thinly sliced steak on top along with roasted corn and slices of ripe avocado Spoon the cilantro cream sauce over everything and add another sprinkle of cilantro for color

Pin

My go to part of this bowl is always the cilantro cream sauce I will never forget the first time my nephew tasted it and immediately asked for extra He now calls it the green magic sauce because it ties the whole dish together

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best texture keep the avocado and sauce separate and slice avocado fresh when serving The quinoa and steak reheat best when warmed gently in a skillet

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have flank steak skirt steak or sirloin make good substitutes Switch out the quinoa for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower carb option Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangier lighter sauce

Serving Suggestions

This bowl is perfect just as it is but you can pile on black beans cherry tomatoes pickled onions or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese to make it even more festive Serve with warm tortillas on the side for taco vibes

Pin

Cultural Context

Bowls like this are inspired by the flavors of Latin American cuisine especially with the lime cilantro and charred corn They are a beautiful way to celebrate fresh ingredients and colorful presentation drawing from both Mexican and California food traditions

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you ensure the steak stays tender in the bowl?

Let the flank steak rest after cooking to keep juices inside, and always slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well. Just roast it until golden and slightly charred for optimal flavor.

→ Is there a substitute for quinoa in this dish?

Absolutely. Rice or farro are good alternatives if you prefer a different grain base.

→ What makes the cilantro cream sauce tangy?

Fresh lime juice and sour cream add tang, while garlic and cilantro provide extra depth and freshness.

→ Can this be made dairy-free?

Swap sour cream for a plant-based alternative or coconut yogurt to create a dairy-free version of the cilantro sauce.

→ How can I customize the protein?

Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu as protein swaps to suit your preference or dietary needs.