Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavor and tenderness. Ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this dish brings out the best in beef while being low-carb. The marinade infuses the flank steak with rich flavors, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready without much fuss.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh juice creates a savory profile that enhances the meat’s natural taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair this dish with various sides or sauces like Chimichurri for added zest.
• Perfectly Grilled: Achieve mouthwatering grill marks and juicy tenderness with minimal effort.
• Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, it’s a great option for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Colander
• Instant-read meat thermometer
• Large cutting board
• Serrated knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks while cooking the steak evenly.
• Instant-read meat thermometer: Helps you check the doneness of the meat accurately, ensuring perfect results every time.
• Serrated knife: Ideal for slicing the flank steak against the grain for tender pieces.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, fresh juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak

1. Trim any excess fat from the edges of the flank steak as desired.
2. Rub both sides of the steak with your chosen steak rub.
3. Place the steak into a Ziploc bag and pour in the marinade. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

1. Remove the marinated flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature.
2. Preheat your grill to high heat, around 450-500°F (230-260°C).

Step 4: Grill the Flank Steak

1. Drain excess marinade from the steak using a colander, catching it in a bowl if desired.
2. Place the flank steak on an angle across the grill grates for grill marks; reduce heat to medium-high if possible.
3. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side until grill marks appear; rotate and cook another 3 minutes on the opposite angle.
4. Flip the steak and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (55°C) for medium rare.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

1. Once cooked to your liking, remove from grill and cover loosely with foil; let rest for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Transfer to a cutting board, slice thinly against the grain using a large serrated knife.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your beautifully grilled flank steak hot! It’s fantastic paired with Chimichurri sauce or an olive sauce to enhance its flavors even more.

Enjoy your delicious Marinated Grilled Flank Steak!

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Marinated grilled flank steak is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience.

With Chimichurri Sauce

• This vibrant sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil adds a zesty flavor that complements the rich taste of flank steak.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the sliced steak over mixed greens for a refreshing salad. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Thinly slice the steak and serve it in corn or flour tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a tasty taco night.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the steak with an assortment of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a colorful and nutritious side.

As a Sandwich

• Use the grilled flank steak in sandwiches or wraps. Add your favorite condiments and crunchy veggies for an easy lunch option.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the sliced steak alongside fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Add herbs or spices to the grains for extra flavor.

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: Select high-quality flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for well-marbled cuts.

• Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, let the steak marinate overnight. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeply into the meat.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to high heat before cooking. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks and sears the meat properly.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the steak to rest covered with foil. This helps retain juices, making each slice more flavorful.

• Cut Against the Grain: When slicing the cooked steak, always cut against the grain. This technique ensures tender bites and enhances chewability.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Pairing your marinated grilled flank steak with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that balances the richness of the steak.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with beef.

3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and juicy, making it a classic side that everyone loves.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to your plate, providing a nice contrast to the savory beef.

5. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice serves as a lighter alternative to traditional rice, making it great for health-conscious diners.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled until slightly charred offer both flavor and visual appeal when served alongside flank steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling the perfect Marinated Grilled Flank Steak can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating the flank steak long enough can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 8 hours for optimal taste.
• Ignoring Temperature: Cooking the steak straight from the refrigerator can lead to uneven cooking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Starting with a cold grill will prevent those beautiful grill marks. Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500F) for best results.
• Cutting Against the Grain: Slicing the steak with the grain can make it tough. Always cut against the grain for tender slices.
• Overcooking the Steak: Using a meat thermometer is essential to avoid overcooking. Aim for 130F for medium rare; remember, it continues to cook while resting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Marinated Grilled Flank Steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil, reheating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Warm the steak slices gently on both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marinated Grilled Flank Steak:

What is Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a flavorful dish made by marinating flank steak in a mixture of spices, vinegar, and oil before grilling it to perfection.

How do I choose flank steak?

Look for flank steaks that are bright red with minimal fat. A well-marbled piece will ensure better flavor and tenderness after cooking.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can substitute it with cuts like skirt steak or sirloin if needed.

What should I serve with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or sauces like Chimichurri for added flavor.

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking time depends on your desired doneness but typically takes around 10-15 minutes total on high heat.

Final Thoughts

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize based on your taste preferences. Try different marinades or side dishes to make this meal truly your own!