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Cilantro Lime Flank Steak Recipe

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4.1 from 8 reviews

This Cilantro Lime Flank Steak recipe features a zesty marinade of fresh cilantro, lime juice, jalapeños, and garlic, enhancing the thin flank steak with vibrant flavors. Perfectly grilled to your preferred doneness, this dish is great for serving on its own, or as a flavorful addition to tacos, salads, or nachos.

Ingredients

Steak

  • 1 1/2 pound thin flank steak

Marinade

  • 1 cup cilantro, packed (including leaves and stems)
  • 3 limes, juiced
  • 3 green onions, quartered
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed
  • 3 tomatillos, outer paper removed
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor, combine the cilantro, quartered green onions, freshly juiced limes, garlic cloves, olive oil, seeded jalapeño peppers, salt, and black pepper. Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency, creating a flavorful cilantro lime marinade.
  2. Marinate the Steak: Pour the prepared marinade into a sealable Ziploc bag or airtight container, then add the flank steak. Seal tightly and refrigerate to marinate for at least one hour. For best results and more intense flavor, allow the steak to marinate longer if time permits.
  3. Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, approximately 350-400°F (175-205°C), ensuring it is hot enough to sear the steak and lock in the flavors.
  4. Grill the Steak: Remove the flank steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the steak on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness, or 5-6 minutes per side for medium. Check that the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Adjust timing based on desired doneness.
  5. Rest the Meat: Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps redistribute the juices, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy when sliced.
  6. Serve: Slice the flank steak against the grain and enjoy it as a standalone dish or incorporate it into tacos, salads, or nachos for a fresh, vibrant meal.

Notes

  • Marinating the steak longer, up to 4 hours, intensifies the flavor.
  • Try removing seeds from jalapeños for milder spiciness or including them for more heat.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
  • Resting the steak after grilling is key to juicy meat.
  • Serve with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or avocado for added flavor.