Flank Steak Marinade Recipe
Flank Steak Marinade Recipe is a standout dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. This tempting marinade ensures that every bite of flank steak is infused with a delicious mix of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or a special gathering, this recipe will have your guests raving about your culinary skills. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of creating this mouthwatering dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Flank Steak Marinade Recipe. First and foremost, it requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. The marinade’s combination of extra-virgin olive oil, soy sauce, and fresh lime juice ensures the meat is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be served in various ways—from tacos to salads. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
To recreate this flavorful Flank Steak Marinade, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 2 pounds flank steak
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
These ingredients come together to create a marinade that not only tenderizes the flank steak but also provides a delectable flavor profile that elevates this dish to the next level.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Whisk Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This harmonious blend of ingredients forms the basis of our flavorful marinade.
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Prep the Flank Steak: Using a sharp knife, score the flank steak in a diamond pattern. This technique allows the marinade to penetrate the meat more effectively, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
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Season the Steak: Generously season the scored flank steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The seasoning adds an essential layer of flavor before marinating.
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Marinate the Steak: Add the seasoned steak to the prepared marinade, ensuring that it is completely coated. You can even place it in a resealable plastic bag to lock in the flavors. Let the steak marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but for optimal results, aim for 8 hours.
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Bring to Room Temperature: Once marinating is complete, remove the flank steak from the marinade and allow it to come to room temperature. This step is crucial for even cooking.
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Grill or Sear: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or sear the flank steak for about 4-6 minutes per side. This cooking time will yield a perfect medium-rare steak, but feel free to adjust according to your preference.
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Rest and Slice: Let the steak rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This resting period helps retain the juices within the meat. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This technique not only enhances tenderness but also makes for a visually appealing presentation.
By following these vivid, easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a succulent Flank Steak Marinade that’s bursting with flavor and ready to impress!
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh lime juice instead of bottled for the best flavor.
- Marinating Time: Don’t rush the marinating process! For the most flavorful steak, aim for at least 2 hours, but up to 8 hours works wonders.
- Cooking Temp: For a perfect medium-rare finish, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Flank Steak Marinade is incredibly versatile! Serve the grilled steak on its own or in a variety of dishes. Here are some tasty serving suggestions:
- Tacos: Slice the flank steak and serve it in warm tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and your favorite salsa.
- Salads: Add thin slices of the steak to a fresh garden salad for a hearty meal.
- Sandwiches: Use the grilled steak to make delicious sandwich fillings topped with sautéed onions and peppers.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a brief look at the nutritional information for one serving of Flank Steak (without sides):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
This dish is a protein-packed option that fits well into various dietary plans!
Storing Tips & Variations for Flank Steak Marinade
- Storing: Leftover marinated steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the uncooked marinated steak for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Variations: Experiment with the marinade by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or chili flakes for a spicy kick!
Conclusion for Flank Steak Marinade Recipe
In conclusion, the Flank Steak Marinade Recipe is a must-try for food enthusiasts of all levels. The simple yet flavorful marinade elevates the steak, making it a delightful option for various occasions, whether it’s a weekday meal or a gathering with friends. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a go—you won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
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Can I use other cuts of meat with this marinade?
Absolutely! While flank steak works wonderfully, you can use this marinade with other cuts like skirt steak, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. -
How long should I marinate for the best flavor?
For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 2 hours, but ideally, aim for 8 hours. -
What sides pair well with flank steak?
Grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement flank steak beautifully. -
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! The marinade can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. -
What’s the best way to prevent the flank steak from becoming tough?
Always slice against the grain and avoid overcooking to keep the steak tender and juicy.
Flank Steak Marinade
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil Use high-quality for best flavor
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce Reduces sodium content
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Freshly squeezed recommended
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar Adds sweetness to the marinade
For the Steak
- 2 pounds flank steak Scored for better marinade absorption
- to taste Kosher salt For seasoning
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper For seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Using a sharp knife, score the flank steak in a diamond pattern for better marinade penetration.
- Generously season the scored flank steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the seasoned steak to the marinade and ensure it is completely coated. For best results, marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but aim for 8 hours.
Cooking
- After marinating, remove the flank steak and allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or sear the flank steak for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices before slicing thinly against the grain.