Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak is a fantastic choice for grilling, especially when marinated with vibrant Cuban flavors. This Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe offers a delicious and juicy result that is perfect for any gathering or special occasion. The marinade enhances the meat’s natural taste while adding a zesty kick that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking to impress family at dinner, this dish is sure to stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as the main dish, slice it for tacos, or pair it with fresh sides for a complete meal.
• Bold Cuban Flavors: The marinade brings vibrant tastes of lime and spices that elevate your steak experience.
• Perfectly Grilled Every Time: The grilling process ensures a juicy interior with enticing grill marks on the outside.
• Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, this recipe fits well within various healthy eating plans.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (Gas or Charcoal)
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer
• Ziploc Bag
• Mixing Bowl
• Grill Brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good quality grill provides even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked flank steak.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This tool helps you monitor the doneness of the meat accurately, ensuring it’s cooked just right.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating the flank steak; it allows the marinade to coat the meat evenly without mess.
• Grill Brush: Keeping your grill clean helps prevent sticking and ensures better flavor during grilling.

Ingredients

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

For the Marinade

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

How to Make Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients until well blended.
2. Place the flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring all parts of the meat are coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

1. Remove the marinated flank steak from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature before grilling.
2. Use a paper towel dipped in olive oil to oil your grill grates lightly.
3. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Place the flank steak on the grill once it reaches medium-high temperature.
2. Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes per side for rare to medium rare or about 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.
3. Avoid cooking beyond medium to prevent toughness.

Step 4: Check Doneness

1. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check internal temperature:
2. Cook to 140–145°F for medium rare
3. Cook to 155–160°F for medium

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once cooked, remove the flank steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
2. Slice against the grain into thin strips and serve hot with fresh lime slices on the side for added zest.

Enjoy this amazing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak at your next gathering!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap slices of flank steak. Add fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing touch.

Salad

• Create a hearty salad by topping mixed greens with sliced grilled flank steak. Drizzle with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, lime juice, and spices.

Sandwiches

• Slice the steak thinly and serve on crusty bread with avocado and aioli for a satisfying sandwich option.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the sliced flank steak over fluffy rice or quinoa. Top with black beans, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a filling meal.

Skewers

• Cut the flank steak into cubes and skewer them with bell peppers and onions. Grill until everything is nicely charred for a fun appetizer.

With Dipping Sauce

• Pair the grilled steak with chimichurri or spicy salsa for an extra burst of flavor when serving as an appetizer or main course.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Perfecting your grilled Cuban flank steak requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time you cook this flavorful dish.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, let the flank steak marinate for up to 24 hours. This helps the spices penetrate the meat more thoroughly.

• Bring to Room Temperature: Allow the meat to sit out for 30 minutes before grilling. This ensures even cooking throughout.

• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill sears the meat quickly, locking in juices.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for 140-145°F for medium rare doneness.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the meat rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows juices to redistribute within the meat.

• Slice Against the Grain: For tender bites, always slice across the grain of the meat. This technique helps break down muscle fibers.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with your grilled Cuban flank steak can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice
   A zesty rice dish that complements the flavors of the steak perfectly. Mix cooked rice with lime juice and fresh cilantro for added brightness.

2. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus tossed in olive oil make a colorful and tasty side when grilled alongside your steak.

3. Black Beans
   A classic side in Cuban cuisine, seasoned black beans add protein and fiber while pairing well with marinated meats.

4. Avocado Salad
   Creamy avocado slices mixed with lime juice, diced tomatoes, and red onion create a refreshing salad that balances the richness of the steak.

5. Sweet Plantains
   Fried sweet plantains offer a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors of grilled meats.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn brushed with lime butter adds a smoky sweetness that complements both flavors of the meat and marinade.

7. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides texture along with refreshing acidity.

8. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices can serve as hearty comfort food alongside your flavorful grilled steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating flank steak is an art, and a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold choice of marinade duration: Marinating flank steak for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 8 to 24 hours for the best flavor and texture.
• Bold neglecting room temperature: Failing to let the meat come to room temperature before grilling can result in uneven cooking. Always rest the steak for about 30 minutes outside the fridge.
• Bold skipping the oiling step: Not oiling the grill can cause sticking and tearing of the meat. Use a paper towel dipped in olive oil to prepare your grill grates.
• Bold overcooking the steak: Cooking flank steak beyond medium will make it tough. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check doneness accurately.
• Bold cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain can lead to chewy pieces. Always slice across the grain for tender bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled Cuban flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Slice the meat into smaller pieces and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts until warm, checking frequently.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Add sliced steak and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing grilled Cuban flank steak.

What is Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Grilled Cuban flank steak is marinated beef that infuses bold Cuban flavors, then grilled to perfection for a delicious meal.

How do I ensure my flank steak is tender?

To ensure tenderness, slice across the grain after grilling. Additionally, avoid over-marinating or cooking it too long.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts like skirt steak or sirloin if you prefer.

What should I serve with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

This dish pairs well with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban flank steak is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various meals. You can easily customize it by adding different spices or serving it in tacos and salads. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich taste!