Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak shines when marinated in Cuban flavors and grilled to perfection. This Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or any occasion that calls for a delicious main course. The vibrant marinade infuses the meat with zesty lime and aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Marinating the flank steak is simple, allowing you to prep ahead of time and enjoy more time with your guests.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime juice, garlic, and spices creates a bold taste that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or slice it for tacos, salads, or sandwiches, making it suitable for various dishes.
• Quick Cooking Time: Grilling takes only minutes, making it a convenient option even on busy days.
• Healthy Choice: Lean beef provides essential nutrients while keeping calories in check.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Grilled Cuban Flank Steak even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer
• Ziploc bag
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor. A good grill ensures even cooking and allows you to control the heat effectively.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This tool takes the guesswork out of cooking meat, ensuring it’s perfectly done according to your taste.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating; it ensures the marinade fully coats the meat while saving space in your refrigerator.

Ingredients

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

For the Marinade

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

How to Make Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak

Put the flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it:
1. Seal the bag tightly to prevent leaks.
2. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Take the marinated meat out of the refrigerator:
– Let it come to room temperature before grilling.
– Oil the grill using a paper towel dipped in olive oil.
– Preheat your gas or charcoal barbecue grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Once heated, place the flank steak on the grill:
– Grill each side for approximately 4-5 minutes for rare to medium rare or about 6 minutes for medium.
– Avoid cooking more than medium to keep it tender.

Step 5: Check Doneness

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer:
– Aim for internal temperatures of 140-145°F for medium rare or 155-160°F for medium.

Step 6: Rest Before Slicing

Remove the steak from the grill:
– Let it rest for about 5 minutes; cover with foil to keep warm if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Slice across the grain and serve hot with fresh lime slices on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Cuban Flank Steak!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not only flavorful but also versatile. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap slices of flank steak, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor.

Salad

• Create a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and grilled flank steak strips. Drizzle with a citrus vinaigrette for added zest.

Rice Bowls

• Serve the sliced steak over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, accompanied by black beans and sautéed bell peppers for a hearty meal.

Sandwiches

• Layer flank steak on crusty bread with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and spicy mayo for a delicious sandwich option.

Stir-Fry

• Incorporate diced flank steak into a colorful stir-fry with vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, seasoned with soy sauce for additional flavor.

Appetizers

• Cut the grilled steak into bite-sized pieces and serve with chimichurri sauce or salsa verde as an appetizer for gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Achieving the perfect grilled Cuban flank steak requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select a fresh cut of flank steak. The quality of the meat significantly impacts its flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor absorption.

• Bring to Room Temperature: Before grilling, let the marinated steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.

• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the meat on it. A well-heated grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for 140-145°F for medium rare doneness.

• Rest the Meat: After grilling, allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices within the meat.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with grilled Cuban flank steak can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant rice dish infused with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro complements the flavors of the steak beautifully.

2. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender add color and nutrition.

3. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide a hearty addition that balances well with the richness of the flank steak.

4. Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, red onion, bell pepper, and lime juice creates a refreshing contrast that enhances your meal.

5. Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado combined with tomatoes, onion, lime juice, and spices makes a perfect topping or side dish.

6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that pairs nicely with savory grilled meats.

7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness while balancing out the rich flavors of grilled flank steak.

8. Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips serve as an excellent crunchy side or snack alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling flank steak can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the steak for only a short time can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least 8 hours or overnight for the best taste.
• Skipping room temperature: Grill the flank steak straight from the fridge, and you may end up with uneven cooking. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Overcooking the meat: Flank steak is best served medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and prevent tough meat.
• Failing to slice correctly: Cutting against the grain helps ensure tender slices. Make sure to identify the grain direction before slicing.
• Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the meat immediately after grilling releases juices. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled Cuban flank steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place steak in a baking dish covered with foil, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and warm slices for about 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best marinade for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

The marinade should include lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, soy sauce, and optional chipotle chile powder for heat. This combination enhances the flavor beautifully.

How long should I grill flank steak?

Grill flank steak for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on thickness and your preferred doneness.

Can I substitute flank steak with another cut of meat?

Yes! You can use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives if flank steak isn’t available. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

Use an instant-read meat thermometer; aim for internal temperatures of 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium-rare and 155-160°F (68-71°C) for medium.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to fit into various meals. Pair it with fresh sides or use it in tacos or salads. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs!