Carne Asada Steak Sandwich with Avocado Salad

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 6 tablespoons paprika
• 3 tablespoons ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 3 tablespoons onion powder
• 3 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon ground dried thyme
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 pounds flat iron steaks
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• 3 avocados - peeled, pitted, and cubed
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 (1 pound) French baguettes
• 1/2 pound thinly sliced Cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Stir together cayenne pepper, paprika, black pepper, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, allspice, thyme, and 1/4 cup olive oil in a large bowl until evenly mixed. Smear the flat iron steaks with this paste, then wrap with plastic wrap, or place into a resealable plastic bag. Marinate in refrigerator for 6 hours.
2. Prepare avocado salad by gently mixing cubed avocado, green onion, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and tomatoes. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil; season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil grate.
4. Grill flat iron steaks until cooked to desired degree of doneness, or to an internal temperature of 135 degrees F (57 degrees C) for medium-rare, about 4 minutes per side. Remove from grill and allow to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. While the steaks are resting, cut each baguette into three pieces, then halve the pieces horizontally. Toast bread, cut-side down on grill until golden brown. Turn baguettes over, and place sliced cheese on the cut sides; allow cheese to melt.
5. To assemble sandwiches, thinly slice the flat iron steaks across the grain, and pile onto baguettes. Top with avocado salad before serving.