Flavorful, juicy Flank Steak is a must-try for any summer gathering. This recipe highlights the steak’s natural tenderness and flavor, making it perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or even taco night. With its vibrant marinade and quick grilling time, this dish stands out as a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests and elevate your mealtime experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The marinade can be prepared in just minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of lime, orange, and Worcestershire sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that pairs perfectly with flank steak.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for tacos, salads, or sandwiches—perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Choice: Lean flank steak is packed with protein while being low on carbs, making it a nutritious option for health-conscious eaters.
• Easy Grilling: With simple grilling instructions, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked steak every time without fuss.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make creating your juicy flank steak seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large ziplock bag
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A hot grill ensures that the steak gets a nice sear and retains its juices.
• Large ziplock bag: Ideal for marinating the flank steak evenly without making a mess.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the marinade ingredients before adding them to the steak.
• Tongs: Essential for safely flipping the meat on the grill without piercing it.

Ingredients

Flavorful, juicy Flank Steak is perfectly seasoned, then thrown on the grill to become one of the best summer meals out there. Add some of your favorite BBQ sauce, make a simple side salad, and this tender steak dinner is ready to be served!

For the Marinade

• 2 pounds flank steak (cut into thin fillets)
• ⅓ cup olive oil (or other)
• 4 limes (juiced (approx ¼ cup))
• 1 orange (juiced (approx ⅓ cup))
• ¼ cup red apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• BBQ sauce (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Juicy Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Place the flank steak fillets in a large ziplock bag.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine:
3. Olive oil
4. Lime juice
5. Orange juice
6. Red apple vinegar
7. Brown sugar (if using)
8. Minced garlic
9. Salt
10. Worcestershire sauce
11. Stir well to combine all ingredients before pouring over the flank steak in the bag.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. Seal the ziplock bag tightly after adding the marinade.
2. Shake gently to ensure all fillets are coated evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

1. Preheat your grill to very hot—this step is crucial for achieving a great sear on your juicy flank steak.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

1. Using tongs, remove the meat from the marinade and place it directly onto the grill.
2. Brush with BBQ sauce if desired.
3. Leave on one side for about 5 to 10 minutes before flipping.
4. After flipping, brush the other side with BBQ sauce again and let it cook for another 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness; about 5 to 7 minutes per side gives you medium-rare.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Check for doneness; if needed, grill for a few more minutes.
2. Once done, remove from heat and brush with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite side dishes or use in tacos for an exciting meal option!

How to Serve Juicy Flank Steak

Juicy Flank Steak can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you prefer it sliced thin for sandwiches or as a hearty main dish, there are plenty of options to make your meal memorable.

Tacos

• Flank Steak Tacos: Slice the grilled flank steak and serve it in warm tortillas, topped with fresh salsa and avocado.
• Spicy Slaw Tacos: Add a crunchy cabbage slaw and sriracha for a kick that complements the juicy meat.

Salad

• Steak Salad: Chop the juicy flank steak and toss it on a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and your favorite dressing.
• Citrus Dressing Salad: Pair with a light citrus vinaigrette to enhance the fresh flavors of the steak.

Sandwiches

• Steak Sandwiches: Layer the grilled steak slices on crusty bread with sautéed onions and peppers for a satisfying meal.
• Philly Style: Add provolone cheese and serve with a side of au jus for dipping.

Skewers

• Steak Skewers: Cut into cubes, marinate, then grill on skewers alongside bell peppers and onions for a tasty appetizer or main dish.

How to Perfect Juicy Flank Steak

To achieve the perfect Juicy Flank Steak, keep these tips in mind. Proper technique will elevate your cooking game significantly.

• Marinate Longer: For enhanced flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 12 hours. This allows the meat to absorb all the spices and juices.
• Preheat Your Grill: Always start with a very hot grill. This helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in juices and creating those beautiful grill marks.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Slice Against the Grain: To ensure tenderness, always slice your flank steak against the grain. This shortens muscle fibers for easier chewing.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check doneness with a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F (medium-rare) for optimum juiciness.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different BBQ sauces or toppings like chimichurri sauce to add variety each time you prepare this dish.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with Juicy Flank Steak can take your meal from good to great. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and seasoning make a colorful addition.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred brings out its natural sweetness—perfect alongside savory steak.
3. Baked Potatoes: Serve fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives; they balance well with flank steak’s richness.
4. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf cooked with herbs provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that pairs beautifully with juicy meat.
6. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit; consider seasoning them with garlic or herbs for an extra kick.
7. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any juices; it’s simple yet delicious!
8. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce dressed in creamy Caesar dressing—perfectly refreshing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making juicy flank steak, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the flank steak is essential for enhancing flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip this step; allow at least 2 hours for the best taste.
• Overcooking the steak: Flank steak cooks quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid grilling too long.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the cooked flank steak to rest for a few minutes helps retain juices. Cutting into it immediately can lead to a dry result.
• Using cold steak: If you take the flank steak directly from the fridge to the grill, it may cook unevenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Neglecting to slice properly: Always slice flank steak against the grain. This technique ensures each bite is tender and easier to chew.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover juicy flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Juicy Flank Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
• Juicy flank steak can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label your containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Juicy Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then cover and warm the steak for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve perfectly grilled juicy flank steak?

To ensure your flank steak is perfectly grilled, follow marination guidelines and monitor cooking times carefully. Using high heat is key for searing while keeping it juicy inside.

Can I use other cuts of meat instead of flank steak?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different cuts have varying thicknesses.

What should I serve with juicy flank steak?

This versatile dish pairs well with various sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or fresh salads. You can also use it in tacos or sandwiches for added flavor!

How do I know when my juicy flank steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures; 130°F (54°C) is ideal for medium-rare, while 145°F (63°C) is perfect for medium doneness.

Can I marinate overnight?

Absolutely! In fact, marinating overnight allows flavors to develop further. Just remember not to exceed 24 hours as acidity might begin breaking down the meat too much.

Final Thoughts

Juicy flank steak is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether served with classic sides or used in creative recipes like tacos, this dish promises satisfaction at any meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or sauces to make it your own!