Looking for a great way to enjoy lean cuts of beef? Some cuts of beef take a long time to cook or are hard to find. So with that in mind, here is my outrageously good flank steak recipe!
With a simple marinade that includes soy sauce, olive oil, and fresh garlic, you’ll create a juicy steak that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a classic main dish or using it for steak fajitas or steak tacos, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorite recipes.
The marinade, which also features zesty elements like lemon juice and red wine vinegar, infuses the meat with wonderful flavor.
You’ll want to make sure to let the steak rest after cooking, allowing those delicious flavors to settle in. Trust me, the best results come from letting the steak come to room temperature before grilling it to perfect medium-rare tenderness.
Perfecting Flank Steak Marinade
When it comes to cooking lean cuts of beef, the marinade plays a vital role in enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
A simple marinade featuring ingredients like soy sauce, olive oil, and fresh garlic can work wonders.
With a blend of zesty lemon juice and tangy red wine vinegar, this marinade creates a juicy steak that will impress at any gathering. The combination not only infuses the meat with rich flavor but also tenderizes it, making it a preferred choice for cooking flank steak.
If you’re wondering how long to marinate, allowing the steak to soak up these delicious flavors overnight in an airtight container yields the best results.
Grilling Techniques for the Best Flank Steak
To achieve that perfect medium-rare steak, it’s crucial to monitor the cooking temperature closely.
Preheating your grill pan to medium-high heat will ensure a great sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
When grilling, allow the flank steak to come to room temperature before cooking. This step helps in achieving an even cook throughout.
Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature, aiming for around 130-135°F. This ensures your steak retains its juiciness and is tender enough to slice easily against the grain.
Resting and Slicing for Maximum Tenderness
After grilling, giving the steak a chance to rest is essential.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes on a cutting board. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, preventing them from spilling out when you slice it.
When ready to serve, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique helps cut through long muscle fibers, making the meat easier to chew and ensuring a delightful texture.
This method not only enhances the taste but also makes the flank steak a star in any dish, whether served in steak tacos or as part of a refreshing steak salad.
Pairing Options for a Vibrant Meal
Pairing your grilled flank steak with colorful sides elevates the entire dining experience. A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocados adds freshness to the meal.
Additionally, consider including black beans for a hearty side that complements the steak beautifully.
The earthy flavor of black beans pairs well with the rich taste of the marinated meat, creating a balanced plate.
For those who enjoy a little sweetness, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar over the salad can enhance the overall flavor profile, making every bite satisfying.
Using Leftover Steak Creatively
Don’t let any leftover steak go to waste! Flank steak can be transformed into several delicious dishes, including steak fajitas or steak tacos.
Simply slice up the meat thinly and add it to sautéed peppers and onions for a quick and flavorful meal.
Alternatively, toss the steak strips into a salad with your favorite dressing for a satisfying lunch. The versatility of flank steak makes it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal prep, ensuring you enjoy the rich flavors all week long.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
To complete your steak presentation, a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
Serving the steak on a rustic wooden cutting board not only looks inviting but also makes for an excellent serving option that keeps the meal casual yet elegant.
Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or casual get-together, this beautifully grilled flank steak with its juicy interior is bound to impress and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
The Best Flank Steak Marinade for Juicy Results
This marinated flank steak is packed with rich flavor, resulting in a tender and juicy dish perfect for any occasion. The marinade is simple, featuring pantry staples like Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and chili powder, making it an easy yet delicious way to elevate your dinner.
Serve this flavorful steak sliced into thin strips atop a simple salad, or use it as a filling for steak tacos, offering a delightful earthy flavor and a wonderful texture that pairs well with black beans and your favorite sides.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, red wine vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, chili powder, kosher salt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and the minced fresh garlic. Stir until fully combined.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow baking dish. Pour the garlic marinade over the steak, ensuring it is completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Heat the Grill Pan: Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat, or heat an outdoor grill to high heat.
- Cook the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. Grill the steak for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—130–135°F for medium-rare.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the steak from the grill and rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Slice thinly against the grain for the most tender results.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve on its own or in tacos, wraps, salads, or alongside your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Final Thoughts
Flank steak is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary adventure. This lean cut of beef offers incredible flavor when prepared correctly. Mastering the marinade and cooking technique transforms tough meat into a delicious dish.
The key is giving your steak plenty of time to absorb those amazing garlic flavors. Whether you’re grilling or using a cast-iron skillet, the right technique makes all the difference. Simple seasoning and proper cooking can turn this cut into a family favorite.
Remember that each steak is unique. Pay attention to the thickest part of the meat and adjust cooking times accordingly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure a perfect sear.
Experiment and make this recipe your own. With practice, you’ll create a classic dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the delicious journey of cooking the perfect flank steak.
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