Chili Lime Flank Steak That Melts Hearts
Chili Lime Flank Steak That Melts Hearts is a dish that promises to steal the show with its vibrant flavors and tender texture. Perfectly marinated and seared, this dish combines the zesty brightness of lime with the warm, earthy spices of chili powder and cumin, creating an irresistible meal that’s ready in no time. If you’re looking for an easy, step-by-step recipe to impress your family or guests, this is it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best aspects of Chili Lime Flank Steak That Melts Hearts is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a gourmet-quality meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s family-friendly, appealing to adults and kids alike with its bright flavors and juicy, tender meat. Grill it up, toss it into tacos, or serve alongside fresh salad; the possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Chili Lime Flank Steak, you’ll need:
- 1½ lbs flank steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life. The flank steak becomes tender and juicy, while the lime juice highlights the natural flavors, and the spices contribute warmth and depth.
Step-by-Step Directions
To have a successful cook with your Chili Lime Flank Steak, follow these step-by-step directions to achieve mouthwatering results:
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Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat.
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Whisk The Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. The mixture should look like a thick, fragrant paste that clings beautifully to the meat.
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Prepare The Steak: Pat the flank steak completely dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the meat. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the surface, making sure the flavors penetrate. Don’t be shy about getting a little messy here; it’s part of the fun!
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Heat The Pan: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
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Sear The Steak: Carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the hot pan. You should hear an immediate, aggressive sizzle—that’s the sound of perfect searing!
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Don’t Disturb: Cook without moving the steak for 4-5 minutes until the bottom develops a beautiful, dark crust. Resist the urge to peek or flip too early; patience is key here!
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Flip The Steak: Using tongs, flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or 5-6 minutes for medium. The internal temperature should reach 130°F for medium-rare.
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Rest The Meat: Once cooked to your desired doneness, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial for juicy meat—it allows the juices to redistribute throughout.
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Slice Against The Grain: Finally, slice the steak against the grain at a 45-degree angle into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick. This cutting technique is what makes the difference between tough and tender slices, ensuring every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Tips & Tricks
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Marination Time: If you have a bit more time, marinate the steak for 1-2 hours (or even overnight) in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before cooking.
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Grill Option: This recipe can also be executed on an outdoor grill. Follow the same steps for marination, and grill the steak on high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
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Flavor Variations: Consider adding chipotle powder for a smoky kick or a dash of cumin for extra warmth.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Chili Lime Flank Steak That Melts Hearts can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it sliced atop a fresh salad, tucked into warm tortillas with avocado, fresh cilantro, and diced onions for delicious tacos, or alongside grilled vegetables and rice for a full plate. Pair it with a refreshing margarita or a light beer to truly elevate the dining experience!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Chili Lime Flank Steak contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fats: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
Storing Tips & Variations
Storing: If you have leftovers, store the sliced steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the marinated steak before cooking, reheating it later in the oven or grill.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with the marinade by incorporating different herbs or spices. Try adding fresh chopped cilantro or a splash of orange juice to give it a twist!
Conclusion
Chili Lime Flank Steak That Melts Hearts is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
FAQs
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Can I use other cuts of steak?
Yes! You can use cuts like skirt steak or sirloin, but cooking times may vary. -
How do I know when the steak is cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer; 130°F is ideal for medium-rare. -
What can I substitute for lime juice?
Fresh lemon juice can be a great alternative if lime isn’t available. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the steak ahead and cook it when you’re ready to serve. -
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it perfect for low-carb diets.
With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, Chili Lime Flank Steak That Melts Hearts is a dish that brings both joy and flavor to any dinner table. Get cooking and enjoy!
Chili Lime Flank Steak
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Steak
- 1.5 lbs flank steak Bring to room temperature before cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pat the flank steak completely dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the meat.
Cooking
- Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot.
- Carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the hot pan and cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until the bottom develops a dark crust.
- Flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or 5-6 minutes for medium, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain at a 45-degree angle into thin strips.