For the Steak:

• 1.5 lbs Steak (Sirloin, Flank, or Skirt Steak recommended): The star of our bowl! Opt for a cut that is tender and flavorful. Sirloin is a lean and versatile option, flank steak is known for its rich beefy flavor, and skirt steak, when cooked correctly, is incredibly tender and absorbs marinades beautifully. For a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience, consider marinating your steak for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours. This will enhance both the flavor and tenderness.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat that’s perfect for searing steak. It has a relatively high smoke point and adds a subtle fruity flavor. You can also use avocado oil or coconut oil as alternatives if preferred.
• 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning (Low Carb or Homemade): Taco seasoning is crucial for that authentic taco flavor. Many store-bought taco seasonings contain added sugars and fillers, so be sure to check the label and choose a low-carb option. Alternatively, you can easily make your own taco seasoning at home using a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Homemade seasoning allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the spice level to your liking.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the steak and enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Kosher salt or sea salt are excellent choices.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the steak.

For the Bowl Base & Toppings:

• 1 large head of Iceberg Lettuce or 2 Romaine Hearts: Lettuce forms the base of our low-carb taco bowl, providing a refreshing crunch and replacing traditional rice or tortillas. Iceberg lettuce is readily available and offers a satisfying crispness, while romaine lettuce provides a slightly more robust texture and nutritional value. You can also use a mix of greens like butter lettuce or spinach for added variety and nutrients.
• 1 cup Cauliflower Rice (Fresh or Frozen): Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It’s mild in flavor and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients beautifully. You can buy pre-riced cauliflower or easily make your own by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. Sautéing the cauliflower rice lightly with a bit of olive oil and seasoning enhances its flavor and texture.
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a Mexican Blend): Cheese adds richness, flavor, and a creamy texture to the taco bowl. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or a Mexican blend for a more authentic taco taste. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but shredding your own from a block often results in better melting and flavor.
• 1 cup Diced Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes provide a burst of juicy sweetness and acidity that complements the richness of the steak and cheese. Roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or grape tomatoes are all great options. For an extra layer of flavor, consider using roasted tomatoes or adding a squeeze of lime juice to the diced tomatoes.
• 1/2 cup Red Onion, thinly sliced: Red onion adds a pungent bite and a beautiful color contrast to the bowl. Thinly sliced red onion is less overpowering and blends well with the other ingredients. You can also soak the sliced red onion in cold water for a few minutes to mellow its sharpness if desired.
• 1 Avocado, diced or sliced: Avocado is a powerhouse of healthy fats and adds a creamy, buttery texture to the taco bowl. Choose a ripe avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure. Dicing or slicing the avocado into bite-sized pieces makes it easy to distribute throughout the bowl.
• 1/2 cup Salsa (Low Carb, store-bought or homemade): Salsa provides a tangy, spicy, and flavorful element to the taco bowl. Choose a low-carb salsa option, as many store-bought salsas contain added sugars. Making your own salsa is a great way to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your preferences. A simple salsa with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt is incredibly refreshing and delicious.
• 1/4 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (Plain, Full Fat): Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cooling, creamy element that balances the spiciness of the salsa and the richness of the cheese. Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing a similar creamy texture and tanginess with added protein.
• Optional Toppings: Don’t be afraid to customize your taco bowl with additional toppings to suit your taste preferences! Consider adding:

  • Jalapeños (sliced or pickled): For extra heat.
  • Cilantro, chopped: For a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
  • Black Olives, sliced: For a salty, briny flavor.
  • Green Onions, sliced: For a milder onion flavor.
  • Lime Wedges: For a squeeze of fresh citrus juice.
  • Hot Sauce (Low Carb): For extra spice.