Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Flank steak is a fantastic choice for grilling, especially when marinated in vibrant Cuban flavors. This Grilled Cuban Flank Steak recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with bold tastes. The marinade enhances the natural richness of the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade combines lime juice, cumin, and oregano for a taste that’s both zesty and aromatic.
• Easy to Prepare: Just mix the marinade, let the steak soak, and grill it—simple yet delicious!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or slice it for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
• Quick Cooking Time: Once marinated, grilling takes only about 12 minutes for perfectly cooked steak.
• Healthy Choice: With low carbs and high protein content, this dish fits into various dietary plans.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the grilling process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bag
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that smoky flavor we all love.
• Meat Thermometer: This tool is essential for checking doneness without slicing the meat.
• Basting Brush: Use this to apply oil to the grill grate for non-stick cooking.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the flank steak without piercing it and losing juices.

Ingredients

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

For the Steak

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

For the Marinade

• 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 bowl. Put the flank steak into a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and let it marinate in the refrigerator all day—up to 24 hours works great too!

Step 2: Bring to Room Temperature

Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling. Allowing it to come to room temperature helps ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Oil your grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat; it’s ready when you can only hold your hand over it for a few seconds.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Place your flank steak on the hot grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for rare to medium-rare or about 6 minutes per side if you prefer medium doneness. Avoid cooking beyond medium to prevent toughness.

Step 5: Check Doneness

The best way to check if your steak is done is by using an Instant Read Meat Thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 140-145°F for medium-rare or 155-160°F for medium.

Step 6: Rest Before Slicing

Once cooked, remove the flank steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. You can cover it with foil to keep warm during this time.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Slice across the grain to maximize tenderness and serve hot with fresh lime wedges on the side for squeezing over each slice!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Serving your Grilled Cuban Flank Steak can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some creative and delicious ways to enjoy it.

Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas and fill them with sliced flank steak, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a flavorful bite.

Salad

• Slice the grilled steak over a bed of mixed greens, topped with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

Sandwiches

• Pile thin slices of flank steak onto crusty bread with chimichurri sauce and pickled jalapeños for a tasty sandwich option.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the steak on a bed of rice, accompanied by black beans, corn, and avocado for a hearty bowl that’s filling and nutritious.

Skewers

• Thread pieces of grilled flank steak onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for colorful BBQ skewers that are easy to eat.

Quesadillas

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

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

To achieve the perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, consider these essential tips.

• Marinate well: Allow the flank steak to soak in the marinade for at least 8 hours or overnight to absorb all those delicious flavors.

• Bring to room temperature: Before grilling, let the marinated meat sit out for about 30 minutes so it cooks evenly.

• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the meat on it; this helps achieve great sear marks.

• Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.

• Let it rest: After grilling, allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.

• Slice against the grain: Cut the meat across its fibers to ensure tenderness in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Cuban Flank Steak can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish complements the flavors of the steak perfectly. Cook rice with fresh cilantro and lime juice for added zest.

2. Black Beans: A classic Cuban side, seasoned black beans provide protein and flavor that works wonderfully with grilled meats.

3. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled add color and nutrition to your plate.

4. Plantains: Fried or baked plantains offer a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with savory steak.

5. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made from fresh corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and lime dressing provides crunch and brightness.

6. Avocado Salsa: Dice avocados with tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and cilantro for a creamy topping that balances the robust flavors of the steak.

7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the grilled flank steak.

8. Garlic Bread: Serve slices of buttery garlic bread on the side for an irresistible addition that’s perfect for soaking up juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling flank steak is straightforward, but common errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak.

• Not marinating long enough: A short marination might not fully develop the Cuban flavors. Aim for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.
• Ignoring room temperature: Placing cold meat directly on a hot grill can cause uneven cooking. Let your flank steak rest out of the fridge for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking flank steak beyond medium can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.
• Skipping the rest period: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can lose juices. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to retain moisture.
• Failing to slice correctly: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Look for the direction of the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them.

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 the sliced or whole steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the steak in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices of steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Sear each side of the steak briefly until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Grilled Cuban flank steak is marinated in vibrant Cuban spices and grilled to perfection, offering a flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.

How do I ensure my Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is tender?

To achieve tenderness, always slice against the grain and do not overcook it. Using quality marinade also helps break down fibers.

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

Yes! Skirt steak or sirloin can be used as alternatives, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What should I serve with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

This dish pairs well with rice and beans, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adjusting marinades or serving styles. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!