Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak is a fantastic choice for grilling, especially when marinated in bold Cuban flavors. The Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe brings together zesty lime juice and spices that create a mouthwatering dish suitable for family gatherings, barbecues, or a special dinner. With its tender texture and rich taste, this steak will impress anyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor – The marinade infuses the flank steak with vibrant Cuban spices that elevate its taste.
• Quick to Prepare – With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this grilled steak fits right in.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it on its own or slice it for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
• Easy to Customize – Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, having the right tools is key. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bag
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer
• Tongs
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill – A reliable grill ensures even cooking and adds that perfect smoky flavor to your meat.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer – This tool takes the guesswork out of cooking by accurately measuring doneness.
• Ziploc Bag – It makes marinating easy and mess-free while allowing the meat to soak up all those tasty flavors.

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)

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. 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, ideally overnight.

Step 2: Bring Steak to Room Temperature

Take the marinated flank steak out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling. Allow it to come to room temperature for more even cooking.

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 until it’s hot enough that you can only keep your hand above the grates for a few seconds.

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 or around 6 minutes per side for medium doneness. Avoid cooking beyond medium as it may 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 Before Slicing

Remove the flank steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Cover it with foil if needed to keep warm during this time.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

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

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban flank steak is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides and toppings. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious steak that will enhance its taste and presentation.

Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap slices of flank steak. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic experience.

Salad

• Slice the grilled steak thinly and serve it over a bed of mixed greens. Add avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing salad.

Sandwiches

• Make a hearty sandwich by placing sliced flank steak on crusty bread. Add sautéed onions and peppers along with your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Rice Bowls

• Serve the sliced steak over fluffy rice or quinoa. Top with black beans, corn salsa, and avocado for a fulfilling meal.

Skewers

• Cut the flank steak into cubes and thread them onto skewers. Grill with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a colorful presentation.

With Chimichurri Sauce

• Drizzle fresh chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak for an extra burst of flavor. This herb-based sauce complements the marinated meat perfectly.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

To achieve the best results when grilling your Cuban flank steak, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate for maximum flavor: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight to absorb all those wonderful Cuban flavors.
• Bring to room temperature: Letting the meat sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling ensures even cooking throughout.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the meat on it; this helps create a nice sear and lock in juices.
• Use a meat thermometer: To check doneness accurately, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.
• Let it rest: After grilling, allow the meat to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and keeps it tender.
• Slice against the grain: Always cut across the grain of the meat to ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban flank steak can shine alongside several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to complete your meal.

1. Black Beans: A classic side that adds protein and fiber; serve with spices or as a cold salad.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro offers a zesty complement to the savory steak.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can be grilled alongside the steak for added flavor.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter can be grilled until charred; it’s a simple yet satisfying side.
5. Plantains: Fried or baked plantains add sweetness and texture, balancing out the savory flavors of the steak.
6. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
7. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado mixed with diced tomatoes, onion, lime juice, and cilantro makes a vibrant side dish.
8. Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad can serve as a filling side that complements both flavor profiles beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s what to avoid for the best results:

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating for less time than recommended can result in less flavorful meat. Aim for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible, to ensure the steak absorbs all the robust Cuban flavors.
• Skipping room temperature: Grilling cold steak straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your flank steak sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even doneness.
• Overcooking the steak: Flank steak is best served medium rare to medium. Using an Instant Read Meat Thermometer will help you avoid overcooking and keep the meat tender.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for about 5 minutes so that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its flavor and moisture.
• Not slicing correctly: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Always identify the grain direction of the meat and cut across it to ensure each bite is easy to chew.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap grilled steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the steak on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat 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 (30 seconds), checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring not to dry out the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The marinade made with lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, soy sauce, chipotle powder, and lime zest offers an authentic Cuban flavor profile that enhances the flank steak beautifully.

How do I know when my grilled flank steak is done?

Using an Instant Read Meat Thermometer is key. Aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium rare or 155-160°F (68-71°C) for medium doneness.

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of flank steak?

While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture when grilled, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

How should I serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Serve it hot with fresh lime wedges on the side. It pairs well with rice, beans, or as filling in tacos or sandwiches for a delicious meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to fit various occasions—whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different spices or serving it alongside your favorite sides. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant taste of Cuba with our Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual barbecues. The flank steak is marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, spices, and olive oil, creating a tender and flavorful meal that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve it sliced for tacos, salads, or on its own with a squeeze of fresh lime. With minimal preparation time and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large piece of flank steak (up to 3 pounds)
• 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 chile powder (or hot sauce)
• Optional: 2 tsp lime zest
• Garnish: Fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, soy sauce, chipotle powder, and lime zest.
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 overnight.
3. Remove the steak from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the flank steak for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or around 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.
6. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is between 140-145°F for medium-rare or 155-160°F for medium.
7. Let the steak rest for about 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: 280
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 85mg