Name: Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 1/4 to 1 ½ pounds skirt steak or flank steak; 2 red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, seeds and stem removed, sliced 1/4-inch thick; 1 green bell pepper, seeds and stem removed, sliced 1/4-inch thick; 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced; Zest of 1 lime (about 2 teaspoons); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes); 1/4 cup + 2 Tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 Tablespoon vinegar; 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon chipotle or ancho chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 8 small fajita-sized flour tortillas; Pico de gallo; Sour cream; Grated cheese or queso fresco; Guacamole

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 33 reviews

There is something truly irresistible about the vibrant flavors and sizzling presentation of the Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy skirt steak marinated in a zesty fresh lime blend with a colorful medley of bell peppers and onions that not only look stunning but also add wonderful crunch and sweetness. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or an impressive weekend gathering, this recipe promises a mouthwatering experience that bursts with bright citrus notes, smoky undertones, and a perfect balance of spice. Get ready to bring the lively spirit of Tex-Mex into your kitchen with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows fresh ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. At the center-left, a white plate holds two large thin slices of raw red meat with marbled texture. To the right of the plate, a small glass bowl filled with yellow olive oil sits next to three peeled garlic cloves and a small dark bowl of soy sauce. Above, a whole brown onion and a bunch of bright green cilantro leaves with stems rest loosely. Three whole bell peppers—yellow, green, and red—are positioned in the bottom right corner. Small wooden and black bowls containing light brown, black, white, and beige spices are scattered around the meat and vegetables, along with two lime halves placed near the upper middle of the image. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this recipe just right depends on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering that trademark fajita flavor and texture. From the fresh lime marinade that tenderizes and brightens the steak to the mix of colorful bell peppers that add sweetness and crunch, every component is essential.

Skirt or flank steak: Choose a cut with good marbling for tenderness and flavor that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
Red, yellow, orange, and green bell peppers: A rainbow of colors not only delights the eyes but balances the dish with sweetness and crispness.
Large yellow onion: Adds a caramelized sweetness when cooked, complementing the peppers perfectly.
Lime zest and fresh lime juice: The heart of the fresh lime marinade, these provide tangy brightness that enlivens the steak.
Olive oil: Divided use helps in marinating the steak and cooking the veggies to the ideal texture.
Fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh herbal note that lifts the overall flavor profile.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds a pungent depth of flavor essential for fajitas.
Soy sauce: Adds savory umami that enhances the meatiness of the steak.
Vinegar: Balances the marinade with a mild acidity.
Liquid smoke (optional): Introduces a subtle smokiness for that backyard grilled flavor without firing up the grill.
Ground cumin, kosher salt, chipotle or ancho chili powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, black pepper: These spices layer on warmth, smokiness, and spice complexity.
Small flour tortillas: Perfectly sized for wrapping up the steak and veggies into handheld bundles of deliciousness.
Pico de gallo, sour cream, grated cheese or queso fresco, guacamole: Classic fajita toppings that add freshness, creaminess, and richness.

How to Make Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Steak

Start by mixing together the fresh lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, liquid smoke if using, and all the spices until well combined. This fresh lime marinade really transforms the skirt steak by tenderizing it and soaking it up with layers of vibrant citrus and smoky flavors. Place your skirt or flank steak in a large resealable bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally up to 4 hours. This step is what makes this Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe truly pop!

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the steak marinates, slice your bell peppers into thin, even strips and halve then slice the yellow onion. Using a variety of bell peppers not only adds gorgeous color but gives the dish a spectrum of sweetness and crunch — that satisfying contrast against the savory steak. Having all your veggies ready and sliced ensures a smooth cooking process later.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until your preferred doneness. Cooking the steak at high heat allows it to develop a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, then slice it against the grain into thin strips.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss in your sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the veggies are softened yet still crisp and vibrant—about 5-7 minutes. The caramelized onion sweetness paired with the bright bell peppers offers the perfect complement to the smoky, citrus-marinated steak.

Step 5: Combine and Warm Through

Return the sliced steak to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and toss everything together briefly to marry the flavors. This final quick heat-through makes sure every bite bursts with the balanced seasoning of the marinade and the freshness of the peppers.

How to Serve Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe

Garnishes

A true fajita experience shines brightest when paired with the perfect garnishes. Fresh pico de gallo brings juicy, tangy freshness; sour cream adds cooling creaminess; grated cheese or queso fresco contributes a salty, rich layer; and guacamole lends a buttery, herbaceous richness. These toppings let everyone customize their fajita to their heart’s content.

Side Dishes

Complete your meal with simple sides that complement without overpowering. Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice are classic starchy companions, while black beans or refried beans add earthy protein. A crisp salad or pickled jalapeños can also bring a much-appreciated crunch and a touch of acidity.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate the presentation, consider assembling fajita bowls instead of traditional wraps, layering rice, steak, peppers, and toppings in colorful bowls. Or serve the steak and veggies family-style on a sizzling platter to keep the excitement going at the table. For a fun twist, try lettuce wraps or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. With the Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe, the possibilities to impress are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover steak fajitas store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the steak and veggies together to preserve the delicious melding of flavors.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the cooled steak and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. While the texture of peppers may soften upon thawing, the flavor remains fantastic for quick meals later on.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the texture of the peppers can be compromised. Warm tortillas separately and assemble fresh for the best eating experience.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While skirt and flank steak are preferred for their flavor and texture, other cuts like sirloin can also work. Just be mindful of cooking times, as thicker or leaner cuts may need a bit longer to become tender and juicy.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas or use lettuce wraps. Double-check that your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari to keep the marinade safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Definitely. The fresh lime marinade can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. This makes the cooking process quicker and allows the flavors to deepen. Just add the steak to marinate when you’re ready to cook.

What if I don’t have liquid smoke? Can I skip it?

Liquid smoke is optional and adds a subtle smoky flavor that mimics grilling. If you don’t have it, you can skip it without sacrificing the overall deliciousness. You might sprinkle smoked paprika instead if you want a similar effect.

How spicy is this Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe?

The spice level is moderate and balanced by the sweetness of the peppers and the cooling garnishes. You can adjust the cayenne and chili powder amounts up or down to suit your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joyful experience of making and enjoying this Steak Fajitas with Fresh Lime Marinade and Colorful Bell Peppers Recipe at home. Its dazzling colors, fragrant citrus marinade, and the sizzling combination of tender steak and crisp peppers deliver a fiesta of flavors every time. Whether you’re a fajita fanatic or new to this classic, give this recipe a try and watch it become an instant favorite that brings family and friends together around the table.