Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba right to your grill. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a special weekend treat. The marinade infuses the flank steak with zesty lime and aromatic spices, creating a unique taste that will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lime juice, cumin, and oregano gives the steak an irresistible taste that stands out.
• Quick Cooking Time: With just 12 minutes on the grill, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course, in tacos, or sliced over salad for a fresh twist.
• Healthy Choice: With lean protein and low carbs, this recipe fits well into various dietary plans.
• Easy Preparation: The marinade can be made ahead of time and requires minimal hands-on cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bag
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs
• Brush for oiling the grill

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A reliable grilling surface is vital for achieving that perfect char and flavor.
• Meat thermometer: This tool ensures you cook the steak to the right doneness without cutting into it.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating; it minimizes mess and seals in all flavors effectively.

Ingredients

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

For the Steak

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

For the Marinade

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Place the flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Oil the Grill

Using a paper towel dipped in olive oil, carefully brush the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Place the flank steak on the grill. Cook each side for approximately 4-5 minutes for rare to medium-rare or about 6 minutes per side for medium doneness. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check that it reaches between 140-145°F for medium-rare or 155-160°F for medium.

Step 5: Rest Before Slicing

Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if needed to keep warm.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Slice across the grain into thin pieces. Serve hot with fresh lime wedges for squeezing over each slice. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Cuban Flank Steak!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Serving grilled Cuban flank steak can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and toppings, enhancing its deliciousness.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Fresh lime wedges add a zesty kick when squeezed over the steak, enhancing the marinade’s citrus notes.

Cilantro Chimichurri

• A vibrant cilantro chimichurri sauce complements the grilled flavors and adds a fresh herbaceous touch.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions make for a colorful and healthy side that pairs beautifully with the steak.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances the steak’s robust flavors, making for a satisfying bite.

Pineapple Salsa

• Sweet pineapple salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the savory steak, with its juicy chunks and tangy lime dressing.

Tortillas or Rice

• Serve the flank steak with warm tortillas for tacos or over rice for a complete meal that soaks up those delicious juices.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

To achieve the best grilled Cuban flank steak, follow these simple tips that ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate, the more flavor your meat absorbs. Aim for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours if possible.
• Room Temperature: Letting the flank steak sit at room temperature before grilling helps it cook evenly and retain moisture throughout the cooking process.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Investing in an instant-read meat thermometer allows you to check doneness accurately. Aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the grilled steak to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking is crucial. This step lets the juices redistribute, keeping your meat tender and juicy.
• Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the meat against the grain. This technique shortens muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

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

1. Cuban Black Beans: A hearty staple in Cuban cuisine, black beans are nutritious and complement flank steak perfectly.
2. Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa provides a delightful contrast to savory flavors while adding freshness.
3. Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a perfect base for your steak.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime butter offers a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with meat.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with citrus dressing can provide a crunchy texture to balance out your meal.
6. Plantains: Fried or baked plantains bring sweetness and richness, enhancing every bite of your flank steak.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs can be a satisfying addition, soaking up any juices from the meat.
8. Green Salad: A light green salad dressed in vinaigrette can cleanse your palate between bites of rich grilled meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the flank steak means missing out on essential flavors. Always marinate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours for the best taste.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking flank steak beyond medium can make it tough. Aim for a doneness of medium-rare or medium, and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Not letting the meat rest: Cutting into the steak right after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Neglecting to oil the grill: Failing to oil the grill can lead to sticking. Before preheating, wipe the grates with an oil-soaked paper towel to ensure easy flipping.
• Cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain can result in chewy pieces. Always slice across the grain to enhance tenderness and chewability.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled Cuban flank steak in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped in foil until warmed through. This helps retain moisture.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water for extra moisture while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best marinade for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

A great marinade includes lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder. This combination brings out authentic Cuban flavors.

How long should I cook Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Grill each side for approximately 4-5 minutes for medium-rare or about 6 minutes for medium doneness. Always check with a meat thermometer.

Can I use other cuts of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.

What sides pair well with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Serve it with rice and beans, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the bold flavors of the steak.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not just delicious but also versatile. Its vibrant flavors make it perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Feel free to customize your marinade with different spices or heat levels according to your taste preferences! Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of your grilling repertoire!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a flavorful dish that captures the essence of Cuban cuisine right on your grill. This easy-to-follow recipe features a vibrant marinade made from zesty lime juice, aromatic spices, and olive oil, creating a mouthwatering experience that will impress family and friends. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this steak can be served in various ways—tacos, salads, or simply on its own. With minimal preparation time and quick cooking, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large piece of flank steak (up to 3 pounds)
• 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 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground chipotle chile powder
• Optional: 2 tsp lime zest

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Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Place the flank steak in a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat about 30 minutes before cooking.
4. Oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the flank steak for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or about 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.
6. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Cuban

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg