On a sunny afternoon, the scent of sizzling beef mingled with the sweetness of citrus and the coolness of mint wafted through my backyard. It was a celebration of flavors, inspired by my travels to vibrant markets, where spices danced in the air and fresh produce gleamed in the sunlight. I decided to create a dish that would bring that essence to my home: Spiced Citrus Beef Skewers with Avocado Mint Salsa. This dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also tantalizes the taste buds with its unique combination of flavors. Perfect for a gathering or a cozy dinner, it’s a delightful way to enjoy beef in a refreshing, zesty manner.
Ingredients
– 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice and zest of 1 orange
– Juice and zest of 1 lime
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
– 1 avocado, diced
– ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
Start by marinating the beef. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, orange zest, lime zest, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
While the beef marinates, prepare the avocado mint salsa. In a separate bowl, gently mix together the diced avocado, chopped mint, red onion, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste. Be careful not to mash the avocado; you want the pieces to remain intact for an appealing texture.
Once the beef is marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto skewers, alternating with pieces of red bell pepper and zucchini. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
To serve, place the skewers on a platter alongside the avocado mint salsa. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas will surely impress your guests. Each bite of the juicy beef, paired with the refreshing salsa, creates an unforgettable experience that transports you to a sunlit market, filled with life and flavor.
Enjoy this delightful dish with a side of warm pita or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients and bold flavors.