Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak is a standout choice for grilling, especially when marinated in vibrant Cuban flavors. This Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. The marinade infuses the meat with zesty lime and spices, resulting in a dish that is both tender and full of flavor. Serve it hot with fresh lime slices for an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just marinate and grill! This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it accessible for busy cooks.
• Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of lime juice, spices, and olive oil creates a mouthwatering taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone dish, slice it for tacos, or serve it over rice for a complete meal.
• Healthier Choice: Flank steak is leaner than other cuts, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful grill marks and juicy slices make this dish a visual delight at any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your grilled Cuban flank steak, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and those sought-after grill marks.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This tool helps you check the doneness accurately, preventing overcooking.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating the flank steak evenly without mess.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the steak without piercing the meat and losing juices.

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

In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients until well mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak

Put the flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate to marinate all day or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature

Before grilling, take the marinated meat out of the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature, which helps cook evenly.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

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

Step 5: Grill the Steak

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

Step 6: Check Doneness

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check that your meat reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F for medium rare or 155-160°F for medium.

Step 7: Rest Before Slicing

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

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice across the grain of the meat into thin strips. Serve hot with slices of fresh lime on the side for squeezing over the top.

This Grilled Cuban Flank Steak will surely become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every juicy bite!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban flank steak is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or create a festive meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Tacos

• Use corn or flour tortillas to wrap the sliced steak, adding fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing bite.

Salad

• Slice the grilled steak over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette for a light yet filling meal.

Sandwiches

• Layer slices of flank steak on crusty bread with pickled onions and spicy mustard for a delicious sandwich option.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the sliced steak over fluffy white or brown rice, topped with black beans, corn, and avocado for a hearty bowl.

Quesadillas

• Fill tortillas with cheese and sliced flank steak, then grill until crispy. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Platter Style

• Arrange the grilled steak on a platter alongside grilled vegetables and plantains for an impressive family-style meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

To ensure your grilled Cuban flank steak turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor infusion, marinate the flank steak for up to 24 hours instead of just 8 hours.
• Bring to Room Temperature: Allowing the meat to come to room temperature before grilling helps it cook more evenly.
• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this gives the steak a nice sear while keeping it juicy inside.
• Check Doneness: Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check for perfect doneness—aim for 140-145°F for medium rare.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the meat rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain juices when slicing.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain makes the steak more tender and easier to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with your grilled Cuban flank steak can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Cuban Black Beans: Cooked with spices and served warm; they add protein and flavor balance.
2. Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa made from diced mango, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro offers sweetness and acidity.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brushed with lime butter enhances the summer vibe of your meal.
4. Avocado Salad: A fresh salad made with avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and lime dressing adds creaminess and zest.
5. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a delightful contrast to savory meat.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw dressed in vinegar complements the richness of the flank steak perfectly.
7. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf serves as an excellent base that absorbs any juices from the steak.
8. Corn Salad: A mix of fresh corn kernels, bell peppers, and herbs creates a colorful addition that’s refreshing and tasty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not marinating long enough: Many people underestimate the importance of marinating. For optimal flavor, allow at least 8 hours or overnight for the marinade to fully penetrate the meat.
• Skipping room temperature: Cooking cold meat can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your flank steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Overcooking the steak: Flank steak is best when cooked medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 140-145°F to ensure tenderness and juiciness.
• Cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain leads to tougher bites. Always slice against the grain to enhance tenderness and make each bite more enjoyable.
• Ignoring grill prep: A clean, oiled grill prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Don’t forget to oil your grill grates before placing the meat on them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Cuban Flank Steak in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the steak on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate; cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on low power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and reheat slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Cuban Flank Steak that may help you:

What is the best marinade for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

A great marinade includes lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and chipotle chile powder. This blend infuses rich flavors into the steak.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Use an instant-read meat thermometer! Aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare doneness. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.

Can I use another cut of meat instead of flank steak?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long should I let my flank steak rest after grilling?

Allow your grilled steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding various spices or serving it with different sides like rice or salad. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Cuba right at home!