Marinated Flank Steak

This marinated flank steak is a showstopper with its deep, savory flavor and tender texture. The marinade of soy sauce, red wine vinegar, and honey brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory that complements the rich beef beautifully. Pair it with your favorite grilled vegetables, or serve it with a simple salad for a light but satisfying meal. The steak’s natural juices, combined with the smoky char from the grill, create a flavor-packed bite that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a quiet meal at home, this marinated flank steak is sure to be the star of the show.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs flank steak

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, red wine vinegar, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the steak. Ensure the steak is fully coated.

3. Marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.

5. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done.

6. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

7. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with grilled vegetables or a side of your choice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal
Servings: 4 servings

Marinated Flank Steak: A Flavorful, Tender, and Easy Grilled Delight

When it comes to grilling, few dishes are as satisfying as a well-marinated flank steak. This recipe is a favorite among steak lovers because it combines rich, deep flavors with a tender, juicy texture, making it perfect for any meal. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned cook, this marinated flank steak is simple to prepare and offers a wonderful depth of flavor that will impress anyone.

Why Flank Steak?

Flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow, and while it’s a lean cut, it’s also one of the most flavorful. The key to cooking flank steak perfectly lies in marinating it long enough to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. This cut is not only cost-effective, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Grilled flank steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Flank steak is often considered a go-to cut for grilling due to its relatively low price point compared to more expensive cuts like ribeye or filet mignon. Additionally, it has a robust beefy flavor that makes it a perfect candidate for marination. It’s also perfect for those who are looking for a leaner alternative to fattier cuts without sacrificing taste or tenderness.

The Magic of Marination

The secret to making flank steak truly irresistible lies in the marinade. This recipe uses a combination of soy sauce, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices like cumin and smoked paprika, which work together to tenderize the meat while infusing it with a savory, slightly tangy, and smoky flavor profile.

The acidity from the red wine vinegar helps to break down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender. Meanwhile, honey balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness. The Dijon mustard and spices add layers of flavor, ensuring that each bite is packed with richness.

Health Benefits of Flank Steak

While steak often gets a bad reputation due to its association with high fat content, flank steak actually provides a great nutritional profile for those looking to enjoy a hearty, protein-packed meal. Flank steak is a lean cut of meat, meaning it’s lower in fat compared to other cuts like ribeye or T-bone. It’s an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle building and repair. A 3-ounce serving of flank steak provides around 22 grams of protein, which is great for muscle growth and recovery, especially for those who are active or looking to build lean muscle mass.

Additionally, flank steak is a good source of essential minerals like iron and zinc. Iron helps transport oxygen in the blood and supports a healthy immune system, while zinc plays a role in immune function, protein synthesis, and cellular repair. For those on a low-carb diet, flank steak fits well within the nutritional guidelines as it contains minimal carbohydrates and no sugar.

How to Achieve Perfect Flank Steak Every Time

Grilling flank steak may seem intimidating for some, but with the right technique, it’s relatively easy to achieve a perfect result every time. A few simple tips will help you get the most out of your flank steak:

1. Marinate for Optimal Flavor: As mentioned earlier, marinating flank steak is crucial for tenderizing the meat and enhancing its flavor. Ideally, the steak should marinate for at least 2 hours, but marinating it overnight will give the meat even more time to absorb all those delicious flavors. The longer you marinate it, the more tender and flavorful it will be.

2. Grill Over Medium-High Heat: To get that perfect char on your steak while keeping it juicy inside, grill it over medium-high heat. This will ensure the exterior is nicely seared while the inside stays tender. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time for your preferred level of doneness.

3. Rest Before Slicing: After removing the steak from the grill, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is as tender and juicy as possible.

4. Slice Against the Grain: Flank steak has long, visible muscle fibers that run in one direction. To ensure the meat is as tender as possible, always slice against the grain. This cuts through the fibers, making each piece easier to chew and more enjoyable.

The Versatility of Flank Steak

One of the best things about flank steak is its versatility. Not only does it shine on the grill, but it can also be used in a variety of dishes. After grilling, it can be sliced thinly and served in tacos, salads, sandwiches, or even stir-fries. The possibilities are endless!

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using the marinated flank steak in a fajita recipe by adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. Alternatively, slice it thinly and serve it in a fresh salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. This recipe can be adapted to fit any cuisine and dietary preference, making it a fantastic staple to have in your culinary repertoire.

Serving Suggestions for Marinated Flank Steak

While the marinated flank steak can stand alone as a main dish, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are a few ideas for side dishes that complement the steak:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and asparagus makes a perfect side. The smoky flavor of the veggies pairs perfectly with the marinated steak.

2. Potato Wedges: Crispy, golden-brown potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser and work beautifully with steak. You can season them with rosemary, thyme, and garlic for extra flavor.

3. Fresh Salad: A light and fresh salad featuring arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, topped with a citrus vinaigrette, balances the richness of the steak.

4. Rice Pilaf or Quinoa: For something more filling, serve your flank steak with a side of rice pilaf or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious juices from the steak.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or planning a special occasion, this marinated flank steak recipe is the perfect dish to impress your guests. Its bold flavor, tender texture, and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Plus, the versatility of this dish means it can be paired with various sides to suit any tastes.

Conclusion

The marinated flank steak is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and healthy option for steak lovers. With its rich flavor, lean protein, and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The marinade brings out the best in the steak, creating a tender and juicy result every time. Whether grilled on a barbecue or seared in a grill pan, this marinated flank steak will undoubtedly become one of your favorite dishes.