Catch the tantalizing aroma of marinated flank steak wafting through your kitchen, sending everyone into a frenzy. This dish is more than just dinner; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the table, eagerly anticipating each juicy bite.
Picture this: A summer barbecue with laughter echoing in the air while you’re sizzling marinated flank steak on the grill. The smoky flavor paired with a tangy marinade will make your taste buds dance. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration waiting to happen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy marinated flank steak is packed with flavor and requires minimal prep time
- You can customize the marinade for personal taste preferences
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any plate
- Whether grilled or pan-seared, it’s versatile enough for any occasion
Many moons ago, I decided to impress my friends with my culinary skills by making this marinated flank steak. Let’s just say there were no leftovers that night—a clear sign it was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose a good-quality cut that’s about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for optimal tenderness.
- Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil adds moisture and helps the marinade stick better.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while enhancing umami flavor.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves unleash a robust flavor that elevates your marinade game.
- Honey: A touch of honey balances out the spice with its natural sweetness.
- Cumin and Paprika: These spices bring depth and warmth to the marinade’s flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
To create mouthwatering marinated flank steak, follow these simple steps:
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, cumin, and paprika until well combined.
Add the Flank Steak: Place your flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure it’s evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Marinate Time: Seal the bag tightly or cover your dish with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight for bold flavors.
Prepare Your Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until hot. This step ensures that you get those lovely grill marks!
Cook the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness—look for that perfect sear!
Rest Before Slicing: Let your beautifully cooked flank steak rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips. This keeps it tender!
Now you’re ready to enjoy some lip-smacking beef goodness!
You Must Know
- Marinated flank steak is not just about flavor; it’s a celebration of textures and aromas
- Perfectly marinated, it transforms dinner into a feast, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents that make your stomach sing
- This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the flank steak for at least two hours to ensure maximum flavor. Sear it on high heat for a lovely crust, then finish cooking to your desired doneness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs or spices in the marinade, like rosemary or smoked paprika, to create your own flavorful twist that reflects your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve tenderness without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always slice flank steak against the grain to maximize tenderness
- Letting the meat rest after cooking ensures juicy bites every time
- Don’t skip marinating—it’s where the magic happens and truly elevates this dish!
Creating this marinated flank steak reminds me of a summer BBQ where friends gathered around, sharing laughs and delicious food. Their compliments made my heart swell, proving that good food brings people together.
FAQ
What can I serve with marinated flank steak?
Pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How long should I marinate flank steak?
Marinating for at least two hours enhances flavor but overnight is even better.
Can I freeze marinated flank steak?
Yes, freeze it before cooking for up to three months for future meals.
Marinated Flank Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this marinated flank steak is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, cumin, and paprika until well combined.
- Add the Flank Steak: Place flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish; pour marinade over it, ensuring even coverage.
- Marinate: Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for better flavor.
- Prepare Grill or Pan: Preheat grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Steak: Remove steak from marinade and discard excess liquid. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness.
- Rest & Slice: Let steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (113g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
