Why the Marinated Flank Steak Is a Must-make
When I first tried marinated flank steak, I was blown away by how tender and flavorful it turned out. The marinade infuses the beef with a zesty kick that elevates every bite.
You won’t believe how easy it’s to prepare; just toss everything in a bag and let it work its magic. I love how versatile it is, too—perfect for tacos, salads, or simply served with veggies.
Plus, grilling it adds that smoky char that’s hard to resist. Trust me, once you try this marinated flank steak, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation. You won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Marinated Flank Steak
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, having the right ingredients is key. For this zesty lemon-garlic flank steak recipe, you’ll want to gather a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Trust me, they come together to create a marinade that’s not just tasty, but also super easy to prep.
Imagine a tangy blend of lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce combined with the warm notes of garlic and brown sugar. It’s a party for your taste buds. Plus, the flank steak itself is such a great cut—lean, flavorful, and oh-so-perfect for grilling.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering marinated flank steak:
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon instant minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose Greek seasoning
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ lbs beef flank steak
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients a bit more. Canola oil is great for grilling because it has a high smoke point, which means it won’t burn easily.
And the lemon juice? It not only adds that zesty flavor we all love, but it helps to tenderize the meat, making it even more juicy and delicious. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you could use soy sauce in a pinch, but it might change the flavor profile just a tad.
Also, don’t skimp on the garlic—it’s where the magic happens. And if you want to get creative, feel free to swap out the Greek seasoning for any other spice blend you enjoy. Cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own, right?
How to Make Marinated Flank Steak
Making marinated flank steak isn’t just about cooking; it’s an experience that starts with a simple mix of flavors. First things first, grab a large resealable plastic bag—this is where the magic begins.
In that bag, you’ll want to combine 3 tablespoons of canola oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of instant minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of all-purpose Greek seasoning, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
Give that bag a good shake to mix everything up, then toss in the 1 ½ lbs of beef flank steak. Seal it up tight, and don’t forget to give it a gentle massage. You want that marinade to get all up in the meat.
Now, pop it in the fridge and let it hang out for at least 6 hours, or better yet, overnight if you can wait that long. Trust me, the longer it marinates, the more flavor it soaks up.
When you’re ready to cook, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat it to medium heat, and while that’s warming up, take the steak out of the marinade and let the excess drip off.
Just a quick note—don’t throw that marinade away; it served its purpose, but your steak deserves a clean slate. Now, using long-handled tongs (because safety first), dip a paper towel into some cooking oil and lightly coat the grill rack.
It’s like giving your grill a little spa treatment. Once the grill is ready, place your steak on it and close the lid. Grill the steak for about 9-11 minutes on each side.
But, if you’re like me and tend to be a bit impatient, you might find that 8 minutes is enough, depending on the thickness of your steak. Just keep an eye on it.
When it’s time to serve, slice it thinly across the grain. This guarantees that every bite is tender and juicy, making for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
And don’t be surprised if your friends start asking for seconds—this steak is a showstopper.
Marinated Flank Steak Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to elevate your marinated flank steak.
Instead of canola oil, try olive oil for a richer flavor. Swap Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.
You can even experiment with different seasonings like taco seasoning or smoked paprika. For a sweeter touch, replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
These tweaks can transform your dish, making it an exciting experience every time you grill!
What to Serve with Marinated Flank Steak
Experimenting with different flavors in your marinated flank steak opens up a world of delicious possibilities.
I love serving it with a fresh, vibrant salad—think arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini complement the steak perfectly, adding a smoky touch.
For a heartier side, creamy mashed potatoes or a flavorful quinoa salad work wonders. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices!
Finally, a glass of red wine enhances the meal, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite combinations!
Additional Tips & Notes
To elevate your zesty lemon-garlic flank steak experience, consider marinating it for a full day instead of just six hours; this extra time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Also, don’t shy away from experimenting with additional herbs or spices to make it your own.
When grilling, keep an eye on the temperature to avoid overcooking; I find a meat thermometer helpful.
Finally, remember to let the steak rest for about five minutes after grilling. This step guarantees the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy.
Enjoy your flavorful creation!