01 -
First things first, get your steak ready! Pat that flank steak super dry with paper towels – this is critical for a good sear, trust me, I learned that the hard way. Slice it against the grain into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick. Next, tackle those beautiful bell peppers and onion. Slice them into thin strips too. I always try to get them uniform so they cook evenly, but honestly, sometimes my knife skills are a bit... rustic. Don't stress too much, it'll still taste amazing!
02 -
In a small bowl, whisk together your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you're feeling spicy!), salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is combined. This blend is where all the magic happens, the aroma alone makes my kitchen smell incredible. I remember one time I accidentally grabbed cinnamon instead of cumin – oops! The fajitas were... interesting, to say the least.
03 -
Toss the sliced steak with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and about two-thirds of your homemade fajita seasoning. Really get in there with your hands and make sure every strip is coated. You can let this sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or even better, pop it in the fridge for up to an hour if you have the time. I've done both, and even a quick marinade makes a difference in flavor, honestly.
04 -
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they're tender-crisp and starting to get those lovely char marks. This is where I sometimes get impatient and try to rush it, but letting them caramelize a bit truly enhances their sweetness. Set them aside on a plate.
05 -
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same hot skillet. Increase the heat to high. Once it’s smoking slightly, add the seasoned steak in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan – you might need to do this in two batches. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, until it's beautifully browned and cooked to your liking. I like mine medium-rare, still a little pink in the middle, so I watch it carefully. Overcooked steak is a tragedy, my friends!
06 -
Return the cooked veggies to the skillet with the steak. Give it a quick toss to combine everything and let those flavors mingle for just another minute. Now, grab your bowls! Divide the steak and veggie mixture among them. Top generously with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a spoonful of sugar-free salsa. It's a vibrant, delicious explosion of flavor and texture, and honestly, seeing it all come together is just so satisfying!