Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delicious option for any dinner occasion. With its tender texture and flavorful marinade, this dish is perfect for family meals, barbecues, or a special gathering. The combination of balsamic vinegar and spices creates an irresistible flavor that beef lovers will adore. Plus, it’s a low-carb meal, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can have a mouthwatering meal on the table.
• Full of Flavor: The marinade infuses the steak with rich flavors that elevate the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or pair it with your favorite sauces or sides like chimichurri.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the steak ahead of time for a quick and easy dinner later in the week.
• Perfectly Cooked Every Time: Use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired doneness with ease.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These essential items will help you achieve the best results while preparing your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat for searing, which locks in juices and creates beautiful grill marks.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly without mess.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures precise cooking, preventing overcooked or undercooked meat.

Ingredients

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak dinner is a low-carb meal that will please any beef lover.

For the Steak

• 1 1/2 lbs. flank steak (see notes)
• 1-2 T Steak Rub (see notes)

For the Marinade

• 2 T balsamic vinegar
• 2 T fresh-squeezed juice (see notes)
• 1 T Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 2 T olive oil

For Seasoning

• More salt and fresh-ground black pepper to season cooked steak

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine balsamic vinegar, fresh lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, coarse-ground black pepper, salt, and olive oil in a bowl.

Step 2: Trim the Flank Steak

Trim any excess fat from the edges of the flank steak. If desired, make small slits in fatty areas to prevent curling during grilling.

Step 3: Rub with Seasoning

Rub both sides of the flank steak with your chosen steak rub to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Marinate

Place the seasoned steak in a Ziploc bag. Pour in the marinade and seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

When ready to cook, remove the steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature while preheating your grill to high heat (450-500F or 230-260C).

Step 6: Grill the Steak

For perfect grill marks:
1. Lay the steak at an angle across grill grates; reduce heat to medium-high if adjustable.
2. Cook for about 3 minutes until grill marks appear; rotate and cook another 3 minutes at an opposite angle.

Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking

Turn the steak over:
1. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 130F/55C for medium rare.
2. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, use touch to gauge doneness.

Step 8: Rest Before Slicing

Remove from grill and cover with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Step 9: Serve

Slice thinly against the grain using a sharp knife. Enjoy hot with chimichurri sauce or your favorite condiment!

This recipe not only guarantees delectable flavors but also makes grilling fun! Enjoy your delicious Marinated Grilled Flank Steak!

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Serving Marinated Grilled Flank Steak can elevate your dinner experience, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to present this mouthwatering dish.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the steak’s richness.
• Greek Salad: Feta cheese and olives enhance the flavors with a Mediterranean twist.

Enhance with Sauces

• Chimichurri Sauce: This vibrant green sauce adds a zesty kick that pairs perfectly.
• Olive Sauce: A rich olive-based sauce brings depth to the meal.
• BBQ Sauce: For those who love a smoky flavor, BBQ sauce is a great choice.

Serve with Tasty Toppings

• Sautéed Mushrooms: Adds umami flavor and texture on top of the steak.
• Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory onions complement the grilled meat beautifully.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich contrast to the seasoned steak.

How to Perfect Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

To achieve the best results with your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting high-quality flank steak makes a difference in flavor and texture.
• Marinate for Longer: Letting the steak marinate overnight enhances its taste; aim for at least 8 hours.
• Allow to Rest: After grilling, resting the meat allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness.
• Cut Against the Grain: Slicing against the grain keeps each piece tender and easy to chew.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, check internal temperature for accuracy.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices in your marinade based on personal preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Pairing sides with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrients.
3. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa combined with veggies offers a healthy grain option that complements beef well.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the steak.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the meat.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection is always a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade time: Not marinating the steak long enough can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 8 hours for the best taste.
• Using a dull knife: Cutting the flank steak with a dull knife can tear the meat instead of slicing it cleanly. Always use a sharp serrated or chef’s knife to ensure smooth cuts.
• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest covered for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
• Cooking on high heat only: Grilling on high heat without managing temperature can lead to burnt edges and raw centers. Adjust your grill’s heat and monitor cooking times carefully.
• Ignoring the grain of the meat: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Always check the grain direction before cutting to make sure you’re slicing correctly.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking flank steak too long makes it tough. Aim for medium rare at 130F/55C and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Marinated Grilled Flank Steak in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

• For longer storage, freeze cooked flank steak.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag with as much air removed as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place steak on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water, and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

Marinate your flank steak for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

What is the best way to slice Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

Always slice against the grain. This technique helps break down muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

What should I serve with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

This dish pairs well with chimichurri sauce, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Feel free to customize side dishes based on your preferences!

Final Thoughts

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is not just a delicious meal; it’s also versatile enough for various occasions. Its robust flavors and tender texture will surely impress any beef lover at your table. You can also customize this recipe by trying different marinades or serving styles. Give it a try today!