The aroma of marinated flank steak sizzling on the grill can make even the most dedicated salad enthusiast weak in the knees. Imagine biting into tender meat infused with a symphony of flavors—garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness mingling together in your mouth. It’s like a party where everyone’s invited but only the cool flavors show up.
I remember the first time I made marinated flank steak for my family. It was summer, and we had a mini-celebration for no reason at all—just us and some good food. The moment I lifted that perfectly grilled steak from the grill, the applause was immediate. There’s something magical about cooking meat that makes you feel like a culinary wizard.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This marinated flank steak is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers
- Its rich flavor profile impresses everyone at the table while being versatile enough to pair with various sides
- Plus, it looks stunning when plated!
The last time I served this dish, my friends couldn’t stop talking about how tender and flavorful it was—my secret? A killer marinade that truly elevates every bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose a fresh cut with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to avoid overwhelming saltiness while still packing a punch.
- Fresh Garlic: Mince several cloves for an aromatic kick; fresh garlic always trumps powdered.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the savory elements beautifully; dark brown sugar works wonders.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings brightness and acidity that cuts through richness.
- Olive Oil: Helps in tenderizing the meat while adding moisture; choose extra virgin for best flavor.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds depth; don’t shy away from generous amounts.
- Cilantro (optional): For garnish; adds freshness and color if you’re feeling fancy!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper until well combined. This marinade smells heavenly!
Marinate Your Steak: Place your flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly or cover with plastic wrap. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight if you can wait
Preheat Your Grill: Fire up your grill to medium-high heat—about 400°F (200°C). If you’re using charcoal, wait until those coals are glowing red.
Grill Like a Pro: Remove the steak from the marinade (don’t throw that liquid away just yet) and place it on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
Rest and Slice: Once cooked to perfection, transfer your flank steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes—this helps keep those juices locked in! Slice against the grain into thin strips.
Serve It Up: Arrange your beautifully sliced meat on a platter. Drizzle any leftover marinade over it (after boiling for safety), then sprinkle with cilantro if desired. Enjoy with sides like rice or grilled veggies
With these simple steps, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating delicious memories around your dining table—and isn’t that what really matters?
You Must Know
- Marinated flank steak is not just a recipe; it’s an experience
- The rich, savory flavor envelopes your senses and makes every bite feel like a celebration
- Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, ensuring you can impress guests without the last-minute rush
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results with marinated flank steak, start by marinating for at least four hours. Sear it in a hot pan to lock in the juices before grilling on high heat for a beautifully charred exterior.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your marinade! Swap out soy sauce for teriyaki or add some chipotle for a smoky kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the flavors too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover marinated flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to keep it tender and juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinated flank steak benefits from resting after cooking; this ensures juices redistribute throughout
- Always slice against the grain for optimal tenderness
- Don’t shy away from experimenting with different marinades to discover new favorites!
Cooking this marinated flank steak reminds me of family barbecues where laughter echoed under the sun, and everyone gathered around the grill with eager anticipation.
FAQ
How long should I marinate flank steak?
Marinating flank steak for at least four hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
Can I use frozen flank steak for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating for better flavor absorption.
What should I serve with marinated flank steak?
Pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Savory Marinated Flank Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Indulge in this tender and flavorful marinated flank steak, perfect for grilling enthusiasts looking to impress at their next gathering.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish; pour marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
- Remove steak from marinade and place on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare, reaching an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
- Transfer cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve on a platter drizzled with boiled leftover marinade and garnish with cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz steak (113g)
- Calories: 294
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 723mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 97mg
