There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a fresh avocado and the tender, juicy steak nestled beside it. When I was searching for a dish that could breathe new life into my weeknight dinners, I stumbled upon the perfect balance of flavors: the Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Sauce. This vibrant meal comes together effortlessly, making your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant while being easy enough for any home cook.
As summer corn starts to make its way into our markets, I find myself craving that sweet, smoky goodness that fresh or grilled corn brings. Add in protein-rich quinoa and the creamy zing of cilantro sauce, and you have a bowl that’s not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want something yummy and wholesome for yourself, this dish hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this colorful masterpiece at home!
Why You'll Love This Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Sauce
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- The combination of juicy steak, creamy avocado, and sweet roasted corn creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds.
- With its vibrant colors and artistic presentation, this bowl is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it can impress dinner guests or serve as a satisfying meal for yourself.
Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl Ingredients
A vibrant mix awaits!
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa – this whole grain base adds a nutty flavor and incredible protein boost.
- 2 cups water – essential for cooking the quinoa to fluffy perfection.
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided) – enhances the flavors of the dish, balancing the freshness of the ingredients.
For the Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks – choose ribeye for richness or sirloin for a leaner option; both add hearty protein to the bowl.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – used for searing the steak and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
For the Corn
- 1 ½ cups corn (fresh grilled or frozen roasted) – fresh corn gives a sweet crunch; frozen is convenient and still delicious when roasted.
For the Toppings
- 1 large avocado, diced – creamy avocado not only adds texture but also rich healthy fats to the bowl.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves – brightens the flavors and complements the rest of the ingredients beautifully.
For the Cilantro Cream Sauce
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream – offers a creamy base for the sauce with a tangy kick.
- 1 clove garlic – adds aromatic depth to the cilantro cream sauce for a flavorful punch.
- 1 lime, juiced – the lime juice brings acidity that lifts all the flavors in your dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – a touch of spice to enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to embark on your culinary adventure with this delightful Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Sauce!
How to Make Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl
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Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. This helps to remove any bitterness and ensures that the quinoa cooks up fluffy and delicious.
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Combine quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. When it’s fluffy, set it aside to cool.
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Grill the corn if using fresh! Grill until you have nice char marks, then slice off the kernels. If you have frozen corn, simply pan-roast it in olive oil until slightly charred for optimal flavor.
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Season the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering. This will ensure a perfect sear.
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Sear the steaks for about 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Once beautifully browned, let them rest for 5 minutes. This keeps them juicy! Then, slice against the grain for tender bites.
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Blend the cilantro, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), garlic, lime juice, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender. Mix until the sauce is perfectly creamy and vibrant.
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Assemble your bowls! Start with a layer of quinoa, add the slices of steak, roasted corn, and diced avocado. Drizzle generously with the cilantro cream sauce, finishing with fresh cilantro or an extra squeeze of lime if you desire!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce?
Create a delightful dining experience by pairing your vibrant bowl with these complementary dishes and drinks.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping into the cilantro cream sauce.
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Zesty Black Bean Salad: This fresh and tangy salad adds protein and bright flavors that mesh beautifully with the steak and corn.
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Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful, smoky vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers enhance the bowl’s vibrant presentation while adding delightful textures.
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Fresh Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy salsa brings a tropical zing that contrasts perfectly with the savory elements of your meal.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the dish’s savory notes, while the fluffy texture complements the bowl beautifully.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or refreshing Pinot Grigio elevates the dining experience, harmonizing with the dish’s vibrant flavors.
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Coconut Lime Rice: This creamy, tropical side echoes the cilantro cream sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor, perfect for scooping.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this indulgent mousse pairs well, echoing the avocado’s creaminess with a rich chocolate finish to end your meal on a high note.
Enjoy every bite, and let each pairing elevate your Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce to new culinary heights!
Make Ahead Options
These Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowls with Cilantro Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped ahead to save you valuable time! You can prepare the quinoa, roasted corn, and cilantro cream sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the quinoa and let it cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. For the corn, grill or pan-roast and keep it stored to maintain that sweet flavor. The cilantro sauce should be blended and stored separately to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the quinoa and corn, sear your steak fresh for that perfect juicy texture, and assemble your bowls for a delicious meal that feels freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl
Fridge: Store any leftover Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the quinoa and corn mixture separately for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing avocado as it may change texture.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.
Assembly Tip: Keep the cilantro cream sauce in a separate container to maintain its freshness until you’re ready to enjoy your bowl again.
Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and explore delightful twists and swaps that can elevate your bowl even more!
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Herbed Quinoa: Replace plain quinoa with a mix of herbs like parsley and dill for an aromatic experience. This small adjustment makes a big flavor difference.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat. A touch of spice can take the whole dish to the next level.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the steak with grilled Portobello mushrooms and use silken tofu in the sauce for a delicious plant-based version. The mushrooms will add a meaty texture that’s irresistible!
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Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the bowl for added creaminess and flavor. The salty bite complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly.
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Citrusy Zing: Swap lime juice for fresh lemon juice in the cilantro sauce. This brings a bright and refreshing twist to the overall flavor profile.
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Nutty Addition: Add toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch and extra nutrition. They’ll not only enhance the texture but also introduce a delightful nutty flavor.
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Roasted Veggies: Incorporate roasted bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and color. They’ll add a lovely sweetness and depth to your dish.
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Creamy Avocado Swap: Try using guacamole instead of diced avocado for a creamier consistency with a punch of flavor. The richness will make every bite indulgent.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl, always rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the steaks, as this can lead to steaming instead of achieving that perfect sear.
- For the corn, whether using fresh or frozen, aim for a nice char when grilling or pan-roasting to enhance the sweetness of the kernels.
- Remember to let the steaks rest after cooking; this retains juices and ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.
Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that are slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure when squeezed. If your avocados have dark spots all over or feel mushy, they may be overripe. A perfectly ripened avocado should have a rich, green color and smooth skin.
How should I store the leftovers?
Sure thing! After enjoying your delicious Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the cilantro cream sauce in a separate container to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze the quinoa and corn?
Yes, you can! To freeze the quinoa and corn mixture, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
What should I do if my steak is too tough?
Very! If your steak turns out tough, it could be because it wasn’t sliced properly or not cooked long enough to break down the proteins. Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness. Additionally, marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking can help tenderize it. If you’re using a lean cut, consider cooking it to medium-rare for the best texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re mindful of allergies, the cilantro cream sauce can easily be made dairy-free, simply swap Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative. Also, while avocados are great for humans, they can be toxic to pets, so always keep this dish out of their reach.
How do I boost the flavor of the corn?
For sure! Roasting your corn until it has that beautiful char will bring out its natural sweetness. You can also toss your corn with a little lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder or smoked paprika before cooking for an added flavor boost. Enjoy experimenting with it!
Steak Avocado Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water.
- Combine quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Grill the corn if using fresh! Grill until you have nice char marks, then slice off the kernels.
- Season the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.
- Sear the steaks for about 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Let them rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain.
- Blend the cilantro, Greek yogurt, garlic, lime juice, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender until creamy.
- Assemble your bowls with quinoa, slices of steak, roasted corn, and diced avocado, and drizzle with cilantro cream sauce.
