Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak is a fantastic choice for grilling, especially when marinated in vibrant Cuban flavors. The Grilled Cuban Flank Steak not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fits perfectly for casual family dinners or festive gatherings. Its bold seasoning and juicy texture make it a standout dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The marinade combines citrus and spices to create a deliciously zesty flavor profile.
• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can easily marinate the steak ahead and grill it up in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it sliced on its own, in tacos, or as part of a hearty salad.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or an intimate dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this steak is a great addition to any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the perfect grilled Cuban flank steak, having the right tools is essential. These tools make the cooking process smoother and help ensure your steak turns out just right.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer
• Ziploc bag
• Paper towels
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat necessary for achieving those perfect grill marks and flavor.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer: Helps you check the doneness without cutting into the meat, preserving its juices.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly without making a mess.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the steak while grilling, ensuring you don’t pierce the meat.

Ingredients

Flank steak is delicious when it’s marinated in Cuban flavors and grilled!

For the Steak

• 1 large piece of flank steak (this recipe makes enough marinade for 3 pounds of meat)

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 T soy sauce (see notes)
• 1/2 tsp. ground chipotle chile powder (or use your favorite hot sauce)
• 2 tsp. lime zest (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Mix well until everything is fully blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Put flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and massage it gently to coat all sides of the meat. Refrigerate and marinate all day—up to 24 hours is ideal.

Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature

Remove the marinated flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Oil your grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat; this should take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Grill the Steak

Place the flank steak on the grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for rare to medium rare or around 6 minutes per side for medium doneness. Avoid cooking beyond medium to prevent toughness.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check internal temperature—aim for 140-145°F for medium rare or 155-160°F for medium.

Step 7: Rest Before Slicing

Once done, remove the flank steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Cover with foil if needed to keep warm.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice across the grain into thin strips and serve hot with fresh lime wedges on the side to enhance flavor. Enjoy your deliciously grilled Cuban flank steak!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Serving Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is all about enhancing its rich, marinated flavors. There are various ways to enjoy this dish, whether as a main course or in creative serving styles.

Tacos

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Serve slices of flank steak in warm corn tortillas with avocado and salsa for a delicious taco experience.
• Cabbage Slaw: Top your tacos with a refreshing cabbage slaw for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.

Salad

• Steak Salad: Slice the grilled steak over a bed of mixed greens. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a lime vinaigrette for a light meal.
• Caesar Salad Twist: Use grilled flank steak pieces instead of chicken in your classic Caesar salad for an exciting twist.

Sandwiches

• Grilled Steak Sandwich: Layer slices of flank steak on crusty bread with chimichurri sauce and arugula for a hearty sandwich.
• Philly-Style Steak Roll: Make it unique by adding sautéed peppers and onions to create a Cuban-inspired steak roll.

Appetizers

• Skewers: Cut the flank steak into bite-sized pieces and serve them on skewers with grilled vegetables for easy snacking.
• Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with flank steak and a dollop of guacamole for an impressive appetizer.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

To achieve the perfect grilled Cuban flank steak, follow these tips that will help enhance the overall taste and texture.

• Bold Marination: Ensure you marinate your flank steak for at least 8 hours to absorb all the delicious Cuban flavors fully.
• Room Temperature Resting: Let the meat sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
• Hot Grill Surface: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot surface creates beautiful grill marks and seals in juices.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer to check doneness accurately. Aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.
• Rest After Grilling: Allow the meat to rest after grilling. This step ensures the juices redistribute, making it tender when sliced.
• Slice Against the Grain: Always slice across the grain when serving. This technique ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Cuban Flank Steak can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Black Beans: A classic pairing that adds protein and fiber; serve them seasoned with garlic and cumin.
2. Rice and Peas: The creaminess of coconut rice mixed with peas provides a delightful contrast to the savory steak.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn bring freshness and color to your plate.
4. Plantains: Fried or baked plantains add sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the steak perfectly.
5. Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad made with lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes offers a refreshing crunch alongside your meal.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the marinade’s spices beautifully while adding hearty elements to your plate.
7. Guacamole & Chips: Serve creamy guacamole with tortilla chips as an appetizer that pairs wonderfully with grilled meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling can be tricky! Here are common mistakes to watch for when preparing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak.

• Ignoring the marination time: Skipping or shortening the marination period can lead to bland meat. Aim for at least 8 hours for the best flavor infusion.
• Not bringing meat to room temperature: Placing cold steak directly on the grill can result in uneven cooking. Allow the flank steak to sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking flank steak beyond medium can make it tough. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check for doneness and avoid overcooking.
• Failing to rest the meat: Cutting into your steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
• Cutting against the grain: Slicing flank steak with the grain will make it chewy. Always cut across the grain for tender bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled Cuban flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap grilled flank steak tightly in foil or freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates to track freshness easily.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Slice the steak into smaller pieces and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm, checking often.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and warm sliced steak for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Grilled Cuban flank steak is a flavorful dish made by marinating flank steak in a blend of lime juice, spices, and herbs before grilling it to perfection.

How long should I marinate Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

For optimal flavor, marinate your flank steak for at least 8 hours, but you can let it sit up to 24 hours if you want even more depth of flavor.

Can I use other cuts of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can also try this marinade with skirt steak or sirloin for great results.

What should I serve with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

This dish pairs well with rice, beans, or fresh vegetables. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or sandwiches!

How do I know when my Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is done?

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer; aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium rare and 155-160°F (68-71°C) for medium doneness.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban flank steak offers a delightful burst of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it in various ways, whether as a main dish or in tacos. Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite spices or add more heat if desired. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!