Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak is a fantastic choice for grilling, especially when marinated in vibrant Cuban flavors. The Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with delicious flavors. This dish stands out due to its zesty marinade and tender meat, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor: The marinade packs a punch with lime juice, spices, and olive oil, giving your flank steak an irresistible taste.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for beginners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or slice it for tacos, salads, or sandwiches—great for any meal.
• Perfectly Grilled Every Time: Follow our cooking tips for consistently juicy and flavorful steak that’s grilled to perfection.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate ahead of time and grill when you’re ready, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

To make your grilling experience smooth, ensure you have the right tools at hand. A few essential items will help you achieve the best results with your Grilled Cuban Flank Steak.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer
• Ziploc bag
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the flank steak.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer: Helps you easily check doneness without cutting into the meat, ensuring juicy results.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly without mess.
• Mixing Bowl: Great for combining marinade ingredients before adding them to the steak.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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

Combine all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Put the flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.

Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature

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

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

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

Step 5: Grill the Flank Steak

Place the flank steak on the grill. Cook for approximately:
– 4-5 minutes per side for rare to medium rare
– 6 minutes per side for medium

Avoid cooking beyond medium to prevent toughness.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check that your steak reaches:
– 140-145°F for medium rare
– 155-160°F for medium

Step 7: Rest Before Slicing

Remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Cover with foil if needed to keep warm.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice across the grain and serve hot with fresh lime slices on the side for added zest!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Serving grilled Cuban flank steak can elevate any meal. The bold flavors of the marinade pair well with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile dish for gatherings or a simple dinner.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Adding fresh lime wedges allows guests to squeeze extra citrus on their steak, enhancing its zesty flavor.

Avocado Salad

• A refreshing avocado salad with diced tomatoes and onions complements the richness of the steak, adding a creamy texture.

Cilantro Rice

• Serve cilantro rice as a flavorful base. The herb adds a fresh note that pairs beautifully with the marinated meat.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and onions make excellent accompaniments. Their smoky flavor enhances the grilled steak experience.

Black Beans

• A side of seasoned black beans provides protein and a hearty element to your meal, rounding out the flavors nicely.

Steak Tacos

• Use sliced flank steak in soft tortillas topped with pico de gallo and avocado for delicious steak tacos that bring Cuban flair to your table.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Perfecting grilled Cuban flank steak involves attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving great results every time.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the steak for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.
• Room Temperature: Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
• Preheat Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated properly. A medium-high heat allows for a nice sear without overcooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool helps you check doneness accurately, ensuring perfectly cooked steak without guesswork.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the meat rest after grilling for about 5 minutes. This helps retain juices for a more flavorful bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain makes each slice tender and easier to chew, enhancing your dining experience.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing your grilled Cuban flank steak with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: A light and fluffy quinoa dish flavored with cilantro and lime juice adds freshness.
2. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa brings a tropical twist that balances the savory notes of the steak.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory steak; roast them with olive oil and spices.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime butter offers a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with flank steak.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing crunch that complements grilled flavors.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side dish that goes well with any meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling the perfect Cuban flank steak can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating your flank steak can lead to less flavor. Always marinate for several hours, ideally overnight, to enhance the taste.
• Grilling Straight from the Fridge: Placing cold meat on the grill can result in uneven cooking. Allow your steak to reach room temperature before grilling for better results.
• Overcooking the Steak: Flank steak can turn tough if overcooked. Use an instant-read thermometer and pull it off the grill at 140-145°F for medium-rare.
• Not Resting the Meat: Cutting into your steak right away lets juices escape, making it dry. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Ignoring Slice Direction: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Always check the grain direction before cutting your steak.
• Forgetting to Oil the Grill: A sticky grill can ruin your cooking experience and mess up your steak. Always oil the grill grates before preheating.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped steak for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and reheat slices for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about grilling Cuban flank steak, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

What is Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Grilled Cuban flank steak is a marinated beef dish flavored with lime juice, spices, and herbs, grilled to perfection and served hot.

How do I know when my Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is done?

Use an instant-read meat thermometer; aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare or 155-160°F for medium doneness.

Can I customize the marinade for my Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices or add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley according to your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Consider serving grilled vegetables, rice and beans, or a fresh salad to complement this flavorful dish.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban flank steak is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various marinades and sides. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any gathering!