Smoky Bacon & Sweet Pea Bowtie Ranch Pasta Salad
Creamy high-protein Greek ranch dressing over bowtie noodles, crispy bacon, and sweet peas.
Juicy seared citrus flank steak atop cilantro-lime grains and crisp cabbage.
Carne asada is one of the most rewarding meal prep proteins because flank steak retains its tender, beefy moisture remarkably well when sliced thin against the grain. Marinated in fresh lime juice, crushed garlic, cumin, and Mexican spices, the steak is seared hot and paired with nutty cilantro-lime brown rice and a crisp slaw that keeps its crunch.
Select how many meal prep containers you are packing this week:
In a wide dish or reusable bag, whisk lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add flank steak and massage marinade evenly. Marinate for at least 25 minutes (or up to 12 hours refrigerated).
Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat until lightly smoking. Sear the steak for 4 to 5 minutes per side until an internal thermometer reads 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.
Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest undisturbed for a full 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the muscle fibers.
Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain at a 45-degree angle.
Divide warm cilantro-lime rice across four containers. Layer 5 to 6 oz of sliced steak beside the rice.
In the separate side compartment, place the shredded cabbage slaw, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro. Pack the avocado dressing in mini sauce pods.