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Skirt Steak Fajitas with Grilled Cabbage and Spring onions

These smoky skirt steak fajitas offer a sophisticated and high-protein twist on the classic Mexican-inspired favourite. By marinating the beef in a punchy blend of lime, cumin and hot smoked paprika, the meat becomes incredibly tender and infused with a deep, savoury flavour. Rather than the traditional sautéed peppers, this recipe uses charred cabbage and spring onions to provide a delightful crunch and a subtle sweetness that balances the heat of the spices perfectly.

This dish is an excellent choice for a healthy midweek meal or a relaxed weekend lunch with friends. The inclusion of grilled brassicas adds a fresh, modern element to the plate while keeping the meal light yet satisfying. Serve everything family-style in the middle of the table with warm flour tortillas, plenty of fresh coriander and a spicy chilli salsa for a balanced and nutritious homemade feast.

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Ingredients for Skirt Steak Fajitas with Grilled Cabbage and Spring onions

  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled

  • 60ml fresh lime juice

  • 60ml olive oil

  • 3 tablespoons hot smoked Spanish paprika

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander

  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 900g skirt steak, cut into 4 equal pieces

  • 1/2 medium head green cabbage, cut into 2 wedges, core intact

  • 1 large white onion, halved with some root end attached

  • 1 bunch spring onions, trimmed

  • 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 1 freshly ground pepper

  • 1/4 small red onion, finely chopped

  • 45ml fresh lime juice

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander

  • Warm flour tortillas (for serving)

  • Dried Chilli Salsa

How to make Skirt Steak Fajitas with Grilled Cabbage and Spring onions

Purée garlic, lime juice, oil, paprika, coriander, cumin, salt, and onion powder in a blender until smooth. Transfer marinade to a resealable plastic bag and add steak. Seal bag and turn to coat; chill at least 4 hours.

DO AHEAD: Steak can be marinated 1 day ahead. Keep chilled.

Prepare grill for medium-high heat. (Alternatively, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.) Drizzle cabbage, white onion, and spring onions with 4 tablespoons oil; season with salt and pepper. Grill, turning occasionally, until vegetables are charred and softened, about 4 minutes for spring onions, 10–12 minutes for cabbage and onion. Let vegetables cool slightly.

Core cabbage and cut into bite-size pieces along with spring onions and onion. Toss chopped vegetables in a large bowl with red onion, lime juice, coriander, and remaining 2 tablespoons oil; season with salt and pepper.

Remove steak from marinade, scraping off excess; season with salt and pepper. Grill steak until medium-rare, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve steak with vegetables, tortillas, and Dried Chilli Salsa.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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