Lime Marinated Flank Steak
Lime Marinated Flank Steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lime with the rich, savory taste of flank steak. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, providing a deliciously tender and juicy steak that is sure to impress everyone at the table. Marinating the steak not only enhances its flavor but also makes it incredibly tender, creating a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lime Marinated Flank Steak is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. The marinade infuses the meat with a refreshing citrus flavor, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. The addition of fresh ginger and soy sauce adds depth and complexity, while the red pepper flakes give a subtle kick. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for grilled or oven-cooked preparations. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to a light salad!
Ingredient Checklist
- 4 medium limes, juiced – The star of the marinade, providing brightness and acidity.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest – Adds an extra layer of lime flavor.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce – Introduces umami and saltiness to balance the acidity.
- 2 whole green onions, chopped – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger – Infuses the marinade with a warm, spicy note.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Gives a hint of heat to the dish.
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak – The main protein, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when marinated.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning the steak.
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the marinade thoroughly.
- Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish – For marinating the steak.
- Grill or grill pan – For cooking the steak to perfection.
- Meat thermometer – To ensure the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Cutting board and knife – For slicing the steak after cooking.
Cooking Lime Marinated Flank Steak: The Process
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of the 4 medium limes, 1 teaspoon of lime zest, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 chopped green onions, 2 tablespoons of minced fresh ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get a good sear on the steak.
Step 4: Remove from Marinade & Season
Take the steak out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the marinade. Season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 5: Grill the Steak
Place the flank steak on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check; 130°F is ideal for medium-rare.
Step 6: Rest the Steak
Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve it warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
- For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- If you have a citrus allergy, consider using apple cider vinegar for a tangy alternative.
- For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes or replace them with black pepper.
- Adjust the ginger quantity based on your preference or replace it with garlic for a different flavor profile.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
When preparing Lime Marinated Flank Steak, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Over-marinating: Leaving the steak in the marinade for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended marinating time.
- Undercooking: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking. Don’t rely solely on time!
- Cutting Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. If you accidentally cut with the grain, your steak will be tougher.
- Dry Steak: If your steak turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. Ensure you monitor the cooking time closely.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Leftover Lime Marinated Flank Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked steak. Slice it first, then place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook it.
Lime Marinated Flank Steak Q&A
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is preferred for its flavor and texture, you can use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the cut.
How do I know when the flank steak is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. For medium, look for 140°F, and for medium-well, 150°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak the night before and cook it the next day. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as the steak soaks up the marinade overnight.
What sides pair well with Lime Marinated Flank Steak?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides including grilled vegetables, cilantro lime rice, a fresh garden salad, or even tacos! Get creative and enjoy the flavors!
Let’s Eat
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to enjoy your Lime Marinated Flank Steak. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this dish is bound to be a hit. The combination of flavors is not only mouthwatering but also a true celebration of fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas as you serve up this delightful meal. Enjoy every savory bite!
Lime Marinated Flank Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of the 4 medium limes, 1 teaspoon of lime zest, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 chopped green onions, 2 tablespoons of minced fresh ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well combined.
- Place the flank steak into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get a good sear on the steak.
- Take the steak out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the marinade. Season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the flank steak on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check; 130°F is ideal for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
- After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve it warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Slice the steak before freezing to extend storage life up to 3 months.
