Recipe: Beef fajitas

Dietitian's tip: The traditional unleavened bread wrappers of Mexico, tortillas are a versatile way to add grains to your day. Tortillas divide into two basic categories: corn and wheat. Wheat tortillas, made from white flour, are often labeled "flour tortillas." Whole-wheat tortillas are made from whole-grain flour.

High fiber = at least 5 g of fiber per serving

Healthy carb = whole fruits & vegetables, at least 50% whole grains and no more than 1 tsp of sugar per serving

SERVES 4

Ingredients

1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper, to taste
12 ounces beef sirloin, select grade, cut into strips 1/2 inch wide and 2 inches long
1 red onion, cut into strips
1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
4 whole-wheat tortillas, about 8 inches in diameter, warmed in the microwave
1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 medium tomatoes, diced
2 cups shredded lettuce
1/2 cup salsa

Directions

In a small bowl, stir together the chili powder, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Dredge the sirloin pieces in the seasonings, coating completely.

In a nonstick frying pan, cook the sirloin strips over medium heat until slightly pink, about 8 minutes. Add the onion and green pepper strips and saute until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

To serve, spread an equal amount of the meat and vegetable mixture on each tortilla. Top each with 1 tablespoon cheese, 1/4 of the diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup shredded lettuce and 2 tablespoons salsa. Fold both sides of each tortilla up over the filling, and then roll to close. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Analysis

(per serving)

Serving size: 1 fajita
Calories	307	Cholesterol	51 mg
Protein	34 g	Sodium	494 mg
Carbohydrate	32 g	Fiber	11 g
Total fat	7 g	Potassium	658 mg
Saturated fat	3 g	Calcium	124 mg
Monounsaturated fat	2 g