Introduction

Fajitas are a beloved dish known for their vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, making them a perfect choice for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. When made gluten-free, these skillet beef fajitas become a delicious meal option that everyone can enjoy without worries about dietary restrictions.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Cooked in one skillet, it combines tender strips of beef with colorful bell peppers and onions, all generously seasoned for a burst of flavor. This is a fantastic way to highlight fresh ingredients, encouraging home cooks to experiment with spices and veggies to make it their own.

In this recipe, the beef is seared to perfection, and the vegetables are sautéed until they are crisp-tender, all while being enveloped in a wonderfully spiced marinade. Whether served with gluten-free tortillas or on a bed of fresh greens, these fajitas are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Gluten-free tortillas or lettuce leaves, for serving

Directions & Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced flank steak and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef strips in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until they become tender and slightly charred.
4. Return the beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine everything well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately with gluten-free tortillas or lettuce leaves. Enjoy with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or fresh cilantro.

FAQs

What if the beef ends up too tough?

Make sure not to overcook the beef. It should only be seared quickly over high heat to keep it tender.

Can I use another cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, cuts like skirt steak or sirloin work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

What should I do if my veggies are soggy?

Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the vegetables and avoid cooking them for too long to keep them crisp.

How can I add more flavor to the fajitas?

Consider experimenting with additional spices or marinating the beef longer for more depth of flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this dish?

For the best texture, it's preferable to use fresh vegetables, but if using frozen, add them directly from the freezer and cook slightly longer.

What if I want a vegetarian version of the fajitas?

Substitute the beef with a mix of portobello mushrooms, zucchini, and additional bell peppers for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Gluten-free skillet beef fajitas are not only easy to prepare but are also packed with flavor, making them a staple for any night of the week. This recipe is adaptable, allowing for customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

So fire up that skillet, embrace the colorful ingredients, and enjoy a meal that brings warmth and a taste of the Southwest to your table. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining friends, these fajitas are sure to be a hit.

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Maple-Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Maple-Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary chopped

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish and pour the glaze over them.
• Chop the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes and add them to the dish.
• Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle rosemary over the sweet potatoes, then toss everything together.
• Roast in the preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.