Easy Steak Marinade

This Easy Steak Marinade is your go-to solution for infusing flavor into your steaks with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a cozy family dinner, or looking to impress guests, this marinade elevates even the most budget-friendly cuts of beef. With its blend of zesty lemon, garlic, and herbs, it ensures juicy and tender results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This marinade comes together in just minutes, making meal prep a breeze.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon juice, soy sauce, and herbs creates a deliciously tangy and savory flavor profile.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for different cuts of steak; whether you prefer ribeye or sirloin, this marinade works wonders.
• Budget-Friendly: Transform inexpensive steaks into a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.
• Make-Ahead Option: Marinate ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect steak marinade, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill (or grill pan)
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are well mixed for even flavor distribution.
• Grill: Provides high heat needed to achieve those beautiful grill marks and char.
• Tongs: Helps safely flip steaks without piercing them and losing juices.

Ingredients

This easy steak marinade comes together in minutes and transforms a budget-friendly steak from good to amazing!

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 large lemons
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons dried basil
• 1-1/2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1-1/2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• Coarse salt (optional)

For the Steaks

• Steaks (of your choice)

For Grilling

• Canola oil (for grill grates)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Steak Marinade

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Zest and juice the lemons to get 1/2 teaspoon zest and 1/4 cup juice. In a medium bowl, add olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, garlic powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, and white pepper.

Step 2: Mix Marinade

Whisk until ingredients are combined and incorporated. Pour mixture over steaks of your choice (the pictures show a NY Strip Steak; read the post for the “best grilling steaks”).

Step 3: Marinate Steaks

Cover (or seal the bag) and place in fridge for up to 6 hours. Avoid marinating for too long as acidity can start to cook the meat.

Step 4: Bring Steaks to Room Temperature

About 20 minutes before grilling, remove steaks from fridge. Let them sit covered at room temperature to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Grill

Heat your grill to high heat. Once hot, clean it with a wire brush. Roll up a few paper towels drenched in canola oil. Using tongs, rub the paper towel wad along the grill grates generously.

Step 6: Season Steaks (Optional)

Remove steaks from marinade. Optionally sprinkle coarse salt over the top if desired (avoid adding salt if you used regular soy sauce).

Step 7: Grill Steaks

Place steaks on grill and cook about 4–5 minutes. Rotate them 90 degrees at 2-1/2 minutes for those perfect diamond grill marks.

Step 8: Flip Steaks

Using tongs, flip steaks over. Continue grilling for another 3–5 minutes for medium-rare doneness (aim for an internal temperature of 135°F).

Step 9: Check Doneness

Cooking times may vary based on grill type and steak thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy; remove meat when it’s about 5 degrees below desired doneness as it will continue cooking slightly after removal.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked to your preferred doneness, transfer steaks to a plate or cutting board. Tent loosely with foil for about 5–10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing into them. Enjoy your perfectly grilled steak!

How to Serve Easy Steak Marinade

Serving steak marinated with this easy marinade can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some delicious suggestions to complement your perfectly grilled steaks.

With Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the steak.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a bright contrast to the savory meat.

In Tacos

• Steak Tacos: Thinly sliced marinated steak in soft tortillas topped with onions and cilantro makes for a tasty handheld meal.
• Fajita-Style Tacos: Add sautéed peppers and onions for a colorful and flavorful taco experience.

On Sandwiches

• Steak Sandwich: Pile slices of grilled steak on crusty bread with arugula and a spread of chimichurri for a hearty lunch.
• Philly Cheesesteak: Melt provolone cheese over the steak and serve it in a hoagie roll for a classic take.

With Dips

• Steak Sliders: Mini burgers served with barbecue sauce or horseradish cream provide a fun party snack.
• Fondue Style: Serve alongside melted cheese for dipping, creating an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Easy Steak Marinade

To ensure your easy steak marinade achieves maximum flavor, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Combinations: Experiment by adding different herbs or spices to the marinade for unique flavors that suit your taste.
• Marinating Time Matters: Aim for at least 2 hours but no more than 6 hours for the best results; this allows flavors to penetrate without over-tenderizing the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemons enhance the overall taste compared to dried or bottled options.
• Temperature Check: For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer; remove it from the grill at least 5 degrees below desired doneness.
• Let It Rest: Always let your steaks rest after grilling; this helps retain juices for a more flavorful bite.
• Grill Maintenance: Preheat and clean your grill properly before cooking to avoid sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Steak Marinade

Pairing side dishes with your marinated steak can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that balances the steak’s richness.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds freshness and crunch, making it an excellent accompaniment.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with tender steak.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar add depth to your plate.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans bring heartiness that complements grilled flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your easy steak marinade, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your steak. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using regular soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can overpower the flavors and make your steak too salty. Opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce to keep the balance.
• Marinating for too long: Leaving steaks in the marinade for more than six hours can lead to mushy meat due to the acidity. Stick to the recommended time for juicy results.
• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the steak to rest after grilling means you miss out on juicy bites. Tent it with foil for 5–10 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Placing cold steaks on a hot grill can cause uneven cooking. Let your steaks sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before grilling.
• Not using a meat thermometer: Relying solely on time can lead to overcooked or undercooked steaks. A meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked meat every time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover marinade in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep marinated steaks in a sealed bag or container, consuming them within 2 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy Steak Marinade

• Freeze marinade in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label bags with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Easy Steak Marinade

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place marinade in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot but not boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this easy steak marinade on other meats?

Yes! This versatile marinade works well with chicken, pork, and even vegetables.

How long should I marinate my steak?

For optimal flavor and texture, marinate your steak for at least 30 minutes and up to 6 hours.

What if I don’t have all the ingredients?

You can customize this easy steak marinade by substituting herbs or using different citrus juices like lime or orange.

Can I reuse the marinade?

It’s not safe to reuse marinades that have been used with raw meat. However, you can store it separately if you plan to use it again without contact with raw meat.

What is the best way to grill steaks?

Preheat your grill on high heat, clean grates thoroughly, and monitor internal temperatures closely using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Final Thoughts

This easy steak marinade elevates any cut of beef into a delicious meal that’s quick and fun to prepare. With its blend of savory and tangy flavors, it’s adaptable enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or citrus juices based on what you have on hand! Try it today and enjoy perfectly marinated steaks every time.

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Easy Steak Marinade

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 steaks 1x

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Description

Discover the secret to perfectly flavorful steaks with this easy steak marinade! This simple yet delicious marinade transforms even the most budget-friendly cuts into mouthwatering meals. Combining zesty lemon, savory soy sauce, and aromatic herbs, it infuses your steaks with rich taste while ensuring they remain juicy and tender. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a cozy family dinner, this marinade is your ultimate culinary companion. It’s quick to whip up, versatile for any steak cut, and perfect for make-ahead meal prep. Elevate your grilling game with this must-try recipe!

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• Juice and zest of 2 large lemons
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Optional: Coarse salt for seasoning

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, and optional salt.
2. Whisk until well blended.
3. Pour marinade over steaks in a resealable bag or container. Seal and refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours.
4. Grill steaks as desired after bringing them to room temperature.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: Varies based on thickness
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 steak (200g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 29g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 130mg