Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak shines when marinated in rich Cuban flavors and grilled to perfection. This Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe is not only simple but also an ideal choice for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. The vibrant marinade infuses the meat with a zesty punch, making each bite unforgettable. Serve it sliced with fresh lime on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful dish that impresses.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines lime, spices, and seasonings to give the flank steak a unique Cuban twist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or slice it for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this steak fits right in.
• Quick Cooking Time: Grill this steak in under 15 minutes for a meal that’s fast yet satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bag
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that perfect charred flavor to your flank steak.
• Meat Thermometer: This tool helps you achieve the desired doneness without guessing.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating, it allows the flavors to penetrate the meat 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. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate it to marinate all day or up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Bring to Room Temperature

Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Oil your grill grates using a paper towel dipped in olive oil. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Place the flank steak on the grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for rare to medium-rare doneness or about 6 minutes per side for medium. Avoid overcooking as flank steak can become tough.

Step 5: Check Doneness

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check doneness: aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare or 155-160°F for medium.

Step 6: Rest the Meat

Once grilled, remove the steak from the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice across the grain into thin strips and serve hot with slices of fresh lime for squeezing over the meat. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Cuban Flank Steak!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban flank steak is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that pair wonderfully with this flavorful dish.

Tacos

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Warm up corn tortillas and fill them with sliced grilled flank steak, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a traditional taco experience.
• Pickled Red Onions: Add tangy pickled red onions on top of your tacos for a crunch and added flavor.

Salad

• Cuban-Inspired Salad: Serve the steak over a bed of mixed greens with avocado, black beans, corn, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. This adds freshness to your meal.
• Caesar Salad Twist: Incorporate sliced steak into a Caesar salad for a hearty version of this classic dish.

Sandwiches

• Steak Sandwich: Layer sliced grilled flank steak on crusty bread with chimichurri sauce for a savory sandwich option.
• Cuban Sandwich: Combine the flank steak with Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and ham in pressed Cuban bread for an authentic Cuban sandwich.

Rice Bowls

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Serve slices of grilled flank steak over fluffy cilantro lime rice, topped with fresh salsa and guacamole for a vibrant rice bowl.
• Fajita Bowl: Create a fajita bowl with sautéed peppers and onions around the grilled meat, drizzled with ranch dressing or sour cream.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Achieving the perfect grilled Cuban flank steak requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Marinate Well: A good marinade is crucial. Let the flank steak marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight to absorb all the flavors.
• Room Temperature: Allow the meat to come to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated properly to medium-high heat for optimal searing. This helps lock in juices and flavors.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve your desired doneness accurately, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for 140-145°F for medium rare.
• Rest Before Slicing: Let the meat rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute for a tender bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the flank steak against the grain. This technique ensures each piece is tender and easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with grilled Cuban flank steak can enhance its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options that will complement your meal perfectly.

1. Black Beans: A staple in Cuban cuisine, seasoned black beans add protein and depth to your meal. Serve warm or chilled as a side dish.
2. Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa brings sweetness and acidity that balances out the richness of the steak.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions make a colorful and healthy addition alongside flank steak.
4. Plantains: Fried or baked plantains offer a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with savory meats like flank steak.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lime juice provides a crisp texture that complements grilled meats well.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds smokiness and sweetness—brush it with lime butter for extra flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating for less than 8 hours can result in bland steak. Allowing the flank steak to soak up the flavors overnight will make it much tastier.
• Not Letting Meat Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, leaving you with a dry meal. Let your grilled steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking flank steak beyond medium will make it tough and chewy. Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness and avoid overcooking.
• Ignoring Thickness: The thickness of your flank steak affects cooking time. Always adjust grilling time based on how thick the meat is to achieve perfect doneness.
• Using a Cold Grill: Placing cold meat on a grill can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your grill properly before adding the steak for a good sear.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled Cuban flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s cooled down before sealing to avoid condensation inside the container.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices of flank steak on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Add sliced steak and heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

You should marinate the flank steak for at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours for optimal flavor absorption.

What is the best way to slice Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Always slice against the grain to ensure tender pieces. This helps break down muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew.

Can I use other cuts of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin, keeping an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

What sides pair well with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Serve with black beans, rice, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the rich flavors of the marinade beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in storage and reheats nicely without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba right to your grill. This recipe features a zesty marinade made from fresh lime juice, aromatic spices, and olive oil, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. The flank steak is grilled to perfection, delivering a tender and juicy texture that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. Serve it sliced with fresh lime wedges for an added burst of citrusy goodness. This dish can also be enjoyed in tacos, salads, or sandwiches, making it a versatile favorite in your culinary repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 3 pounds flank steak
• 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 chili powder
• 2 tsp. lime zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by mixing lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, soy sauce, chipotle powder, and lime zest in a bowl.
2. Place the flank steak in a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before grilling, take the steak out of the refrigerator to bring it to room temperature.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
5. Grill the flank steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.
6. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.
7. Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Cuban

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg