Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a flavorful dish that makes any meal feel special. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe highlights the robust flavors of flank steak paired with a tangy marinade. The grilling process locks in moisture and creates delicious charred notes, ensuring every bite is memorable. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Rich Flavor: The marinade enhances the steak’s natural taste, making it juicy and delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or with sauces like Chimichurri for added zest.
• Low-Carb Delight: This dish fits perfectly into low-carb diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this steak shines.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Colander
• Instant-read meat thermometer
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill helps achieve those perfect grill marks while cooking the steak evenly.
• Instant-read meat thermometer: This ensures your steak reaches the perfect doneness without overcooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for clean cuts against the grain, enhancing tenderness.

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)
• 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
• 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 the balsamic vinegar, fresh-squeezed juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and olive oil in a bowl.

Step 2: Trim the Steak

If necessary, trim fat from the edges of your flank steak. Alternatively, cut small slits in any fat pieces to prevent curling during grilling.

Step 3: Season the Meat

Rub your choice of steak rub on both sides of the flank steak for added flavor.

Step 4: Marinate

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

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

When ready to grill, remove the steak from the refrigerator 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 nice grill marks, lay the steak diagonally on the grill grates:
1. Cook for about 3 minutes until you see grill marks.
2. Rotate and cook for another 3 minutes at an opposite angle.
3. Flip over and cook for another 4-5 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 130F/55C for medium rare.

Step 7: Rest Before Slicing

Once done cooking, remove the steak from heat and cover with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Slice Against The Grain

Using a sharp chef’s knife or serrated knife, cut thin slices diagonally against the grain of the meat to ensure tenderness.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Enjoy your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak hot! It pairs wonderfully with sauces like Chimichurri or olive sauce for added flavor.

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Serving Marinated Grilled Flank Steak can be an exciting culinary experience. This flavorful steak pairs well with various sides and sauces, making your meal both delicious and visually appealing.

With Chimichurri Sauce

• Chimichurri sauce adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the savory beef perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the sliced steak on a bed of mixed greens for a light and healthy option, drizzled with vinaigrette.

In Tacos

• Use the flank steak as a filling for tacos; garnish with onions, cilantro, and avocado for a Mexican twist.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the steak with roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty side that balances the rich flavors of the meat.

As Part of a Salad

• Slice the grilled flank steak over a Caesar or Greek salad to add protein and enhance flavor.

How to Perfect Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

To achieve the best results with your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting high-quality flank steak will enhance the overall flavor and tenderness of your dish.
• Marinate Adequately: Allowing the meat to marinate for at least 8 hours helps it absorb all those delicious flavors.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before cooking to get those beautiful grill marks and seal in juices.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature ensures you cook the steak to your desired doneness without guesswork.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the steak to rest after grilling helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled until tender, asparagus adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that complements the beef while absorbing its robust flavors.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic harmonize beautifully with the richness of flank steak.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to grilled meat, making every bite enjoyable.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer dining; grill it alongside your steak for added convenience.
6. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that mixes well with herbs and vegetables, providing texture and flavor balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Over-marinating the steak: Leaving the steak in the marinade for too long can make it mushy. Aim for at least 8 hours but no more than 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.
• Not bringing the meat to room temperature: Cooking cold steak can result in uneven cooking. Let your flank steak sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into your steak right away releases juices, making it dry. Always let your grilled flank steak rest covered for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Cooking on high heat only: While high heat is great for searing, it can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides if not managed properly. Start with high heat, then adjust to medium-high as needed.
• Ignoring doneness temperatures: Using a meat thermometer ensures you achieve your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 130F/55C; don’t guess based on time alone.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover marinated grilled flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Place the steak on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little olive oil or butter, then warm slices of steak for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure my Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is tender?

To ensure tenderness, slice against the grain when cutting your cooked flank steak. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew.

Can I use different marinades for my Grilled Flank Steak?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various marinades such as citrus-based or spicy blends to customize flavors according to your preferences.

What sides go well with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, salads, or roasted potatoes. You can also serve it with chimichurri sauce for added zest!

Can I marinate flank steak overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight can enhance flavor but be cautious not to exceed 24 hours as it may affect texture negatively.

Final Thoughts

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delicious and versatile dish that suits any occasion. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it perfect for family dinners or casual barbecues. Don’t hesitate to customize your marinade and sides according to personal taste—your options are endless! Enjoy grilling!