Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite chili lime flank steak recipe! This dish is a total game changer for summer barbecues, casual gatherings, or even just a cozy dinner at home. Seriously, the way the flavors come together is just magical! The zesty lime paired with the smoky chili powder creates a marinade that’s not only super easy to whip up but also infuses the steak with a mouthwatering taste that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? You can let it marinate while you sip on your favorite drink and enjoy some sunshine! Trust me, this recipe is a must-try, and once you taste it, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the grill is put away!
Ingredients List
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, trimmed
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare the Chili Lime Flank Steak Recipe
Alright, let’s get into the fun part—preparing this delicious chili lime flank steak! I promise, it’s super easy and so rewarding. First things first, you’ll want to make that mouthwatering marinade that’s going to transform your steak into something extraordinary. So grab a mixing bowl and combine the lime juice, chili powder, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything’s well blended and you can practically smell the flavor bursting from the bowl. Yum!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Take your flank steak and place it in a large resealable bag. This is where the magic happens!
- Pour that gorgeous marinade over the steak, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal the bag tightly, and don’t forget to give it a little massage to really work that marinade into the meat.
- Now, pop it in the refrigerator. The longer you let it marinate, the more flavor it’ll soak up, but at least an hour is a must. Overnight is even better if you have the time!
- When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get those perfect grill marks.
- Take the steak out of the marinade and discard the marinade (we don’t want any of that on the grill!).
- Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare. Keep an eye on it—overcooking can happen quickly!
- After grilling, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes. This is super important as it allows the juices to redistribute. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
- Finally, slice it thin against the grain, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving. You’re in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible flavor: The combo of zesty lime and smoky chili powder creates a taste explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Quick and easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip this up in no time!
- Perfect for grilling: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a casual dinner, this steak shines on the grill.
- Meal prep-friendly: Make it ahead of time and marinate overnight for extra flavor—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Versatile: Serve it in tacos, salads, or alongside your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Gluten-free: A fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this amazing chili lime flank steak, let me share some of my top tips to ensure you nail it every time!
- Marinate Longer: If you can, let the steak marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat, making it even more delicious. But if you’re short on time, at least give it a solid hour!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice makes all the difference! Bottled juice just doesn’t pack the same punch. And don’t skimp on the garlic—freshly minced garlic is a must for that aromatic kick.
- Temperature Check: For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step to avoid overcooking!
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Slice Against the Grain: When it’s time to slice, make sure you cut against the grain. This ensures each piece is tender and easy to chew, which is what you want for a delightful dining experience!
- Experiment with Heat: If you like a bit of char, don’t hesitate to crank up the grill heat. Just be cautious not to burn it—keep an eye on your cooking times!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a steak that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Happy grilling!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! This chili lime flank steak recipe is not only delicious but also packs a solid nutritional punch. Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving, just so you know what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But don’t worry, you’re in for a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and full of flavor! Enjoy every juicy bite, guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak is fantastic for this chili lime marinade, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat.
How long should I marinate the steak?
For the best flavor, I recommend marinating the steak for at least one hour, but if you can swing it, letting it sit overnight is even better. This allows that zesty lime and spicy chili to really seep in!
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! You can easily cook this chili lime flank steak in a cast-iron skillet or under a broiler. Just make sure to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. The flavors will still shine through beautifully!
Can I prepare this steak ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the steak a day in advance and just grill it when you’re ready. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights or when hosting a gathering!
What sides pair well with chili lime flank steak?
Oh, so many options! I love serving this steak with cilantro lime rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh avocado salad. You can also throw it in tacos with some fresh salsa for a delicious twist!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this incredible chili lime flank steak ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right sides can really elevate your meal and complement all those vibrant flavors beautifully. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This is a classic pairing! The bright, zesty rice balances the bold flavors of the steak perfectly. Just toss some cooked rice with lime juice, fresh cilantro, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing side.
- Grilled Vegetables: Fire up the grill and throw on some bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. These veggies add a lovely char and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the chili lime profile.
- Avocado Salad: A simple salad with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a squeeze of lime is the perfect light accompaniment. It adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the steak.
- Black Bean and Corn Salsa: This colorful salsa is not only delicious but also adds a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness. Serve it on the side or even on top of the steak for an extra flavor boost.
- Grilled Pineapple: For a fun twist, slice up some fresh pineapple and grill it until caramelized. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs surprisingly well with the savory steak, bringing a tropical vibe to your plate!
- Tacos: Turn your steak into tacos! Slice the grilled steak and serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a drizzle of lime crema. Delicious!
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a meal that’s not only satisfying but bursting with flavor. Enjoy your delicious feast and the happy faces around the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious chili lime flank steak left over? Lucky you! Storing it properly is key to keeping that amazing flavor intact. First, let it cool down to room temperature before you wrap it up. I usually place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps lock in the moisture and prevents it from drying out in the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, just pop it in the freezer! Wrap the steak in foil or use a freezer-safe bag, making sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. It should be good for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label it with the date so you know when you made it!
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven or stovetop to keep it juicy. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), then wrap the steak in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re using the stovetop, slice the steak and heat it in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam it a bit, which keeps it nice and tender.
Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to dry out the meat and can make it chewy. Trust me, you want to preserve that succulent flavor! With these tips, you can enjoy your leftover chili lime flank steak just like it was freshly grilled. Happy eating!
For more delicious recipes, check out Serious Eats for their take on chili lime flank steak.
Z nadrukami
Chili Lime Flank Steak Recipe for Unforgettable Flavor
- Całkowity Czas: 30 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
A flavorful chili lime flank steak recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for grilling.
Składniki
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instrukcje
- In a bowl, mix lime juice, chili powder, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Place flank steak in a resealable bag and pour marinade over it.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove steak from marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill steak for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Uwagi
- For best results, use fresh lime juice.
- Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
- Serve with your favorite sides.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 15 minutes
- Kategoria: Main Course
- Sposób: Grilling
- Kuchnia: Mexican
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
- Kalorie: 350
- Cukier: 1g
- Sód: 600mg
- Kwasy: 20g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 5g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 15g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 3g
- Włókno: 1g
- Białko: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Słowa kluczowe: chili lime flank steak recipe
