Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled slice of marinated flank steak—juicy, tender, and exploding with flavor. The aroma wafts through the air like an invitation to your taste buds. This is not just any ordinary dish; it’s a culinary adventure that will have your friends begging for the recipe. When summer rolls around and the grill is fired up, this is the dish everyone dreams of—and I’m here to help you make it a reality.
Let me take you back to one unforgettable backyard barbecue when my cousin decided to “experiment” with his latest marinade creation. Spoiler alert: it involved way too much soy sauce and some questionable herbs he found in the back of his pantry. Thankfully, I’ve perfected my own version since then! With this marinated flank steak recipe in hand, you’ll be the star of your next cookout. Trust me; your taste buds will sing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This marinated flank steak recipe balances ease and flavor beautifully
- You’ll love how quickly it comes together with minimal prep time
- The vibrant marinade infuses the meat with rich flavors and makes every bite unforgettable
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners at home—this dish fits any occasion!
I still remember the look on my friends’ faces as they savored their first bites of my marinated flank steak—absolute bliss!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose a well-marbled cut for extra tenderness and flavor; about 1-2 pounds is ideal for serving a crowd.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the marinade’s richness and help tenderize the meat.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still packing a punch of umami flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds sweetness and acidity that balance perfectly with the savory ingredients in this marinade.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic depth; don’t skimp on it!
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a touch of tanginess; it’s a secret weapon in this marinade.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey adds sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when grilled.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper elevates every bite with its aromatic kick.
- Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme): These add freshness and complexity; use what you prefer!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, black pepper, and fresh herbs until well combined.
Add the Steak: Place your flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it ensuring all surfaces are coated; seal tightly.
Marinate: Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor absorption—trust me; it’s worth it!
Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C) while waiting for your meat to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Grill Time: Place your marinated flank steak on the grill grates. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes or until nicely charred and cooked to desired doneness (medium-rare is best!).
Rest Before Slicing: After grilling, let your flank steak rest for at least 10 minutes. This ensures juices redistribute for maximum juiciness when sliced against the grain.
Enjoying this marinated flank steak will have you dreaming of sun-soaked summer evenings and laughter-filled barbecues. Remember that every bite should be tender and bursting with rich flavors! Happy grilling!
You Must Know
- Marinated flank steak not only delivers incredible flavor but also enhances tenderness
- Allow it to marinate longer for a deeper taste, and remember that letting it rest after cooking is key to juicy results
- The aroma while grilling is simply mouthwatering!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the flank steak for at least two hours, then grill on high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing against the grain.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients in the marinade—add some lime juice for zing or fresh herbs like rosemary. Experimenting can lead to delightful discoveries in flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches 130°F for medium-rare, ensuring perfect doneness every time
- Don’t rush the resting period; even five extra minutes make a difference
- Invest in quality marinades with fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact
It was during a family barbecue last summer that I learned how much people love marinated flank steak; everyone lingered around the grill, sniffing eagerly as it cooked!
FAQ
What is the best marinade for flank steak?
A combination of soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil works wonders for marinated flank steak.
Can I marinate flank steak overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderness of your steak.
How do I know when my flank steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F for medium-rare perfection!
Marinated Flank Steak
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Savor the juicy, tender goodness of this marinated flank steak, infused with rich flavors for the ultimate grilling experience. Perfect for summer gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, black pepper, and herbs until well combined.
- Place flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish; pour marinade over it and seal tightly.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
- Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side until charred and cooked to desired doneness (medium-rare recommended).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 79mg
