Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. This recipe features flank steak marinated in zesty Cuban flavors, resulting in tender and juicy meat that’s grilled to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or planning a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without stress.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the steak with vibrant Cuban spices, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it sliced for tacos, alongside rice, or on a salad for a delicious meal.
• Perfect for Grilling Season: Enjoy the outdoors while grilling this tasty flank steak with family and friends.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the steak ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner option.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Cuban Flank Steak experience smooth, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help you marinate, grill, and serve your delicious creation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Ziploc bag
• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating the flank steak evenly in the marinade.
• Grill: Provides that authentic smoky flavor that makes grilled meats irresistible.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your steak reaches the perfect doneness without guessing.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping and removing the steak from the grill safely.

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

Combine all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

• Place the flank steak into a Ziploc bag.
• Pour the marinade over the steak.
• Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Remove the marinated flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

• Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.
• Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil.
• Grill the flank steak for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for rare to medium rare, or about 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.

Step 5: Check Doneness

Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check internal temperature:
* Aim for 140-145°F for medium rare
* Aim for 155-160°F for medium

Step 6: Let It Rest

Remove the grilled flank steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice across the grain and serve hot with fresh lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Cuban Flank Steak!

This recipe serves six people and makes an excellent addition to any meal!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban flank steak is a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Tacos

• Use the sliced flank steak as a filling for soft corn tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic taco experience.

Salad

• Create a refreshing salad by combining mixed greens with sliced grilled flank steak. Add cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a vibrant dish.

Sandwiches

• Layer slices of grilled Cuban flank steak between crusty bread with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and spicy mustard for a hearty sandwich.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the sliced steak over a bed of fluffy rice. Add black beans, corn, and pico de gallo for a filling and satisfying meal.

Skewers

• Cut the grilled flank steak into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers with bell peppers and onions. This makes for great finger food at gatherings.

Quesadillas

• Fill tortillas with cheese and slices of grilled flank steak. Cook on a skillet until golden brown for cheesy, meaty quesadillas that are perfect for snacking.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Perfecting your grilled Cuban flank steak is all about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Marinate Well: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 8 hours; this enhances flavor and tenderness significantly.
• Bring to Room Temperature: Before grilling, let the meat sit out for about 30 minutes so it cooks evenly.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the meat on it. A properly preheated grill helps create those beautiful grill marks and locks in juices.
• Use an Instant Read Thermometer: This tool helps you check doneness accurately without cutting into the meat. Aim for 140-145°F for medium rare.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, rest the meat covered with foil for about 5 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the steak.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain results in more tender slices, making each bite enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing your grilled Cuban flank steak with complementary side dishes enhances its delicious flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice
   A fragrant rice dish seasoned with cilantro and lime juice that perfectly balances the rich flavors of the steak.
2. Black Bean Salad
   A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and onions dressed in lime juice adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil make for a colorful side that’s easy to prepare on the grill.
4. Avocado Salsa
   Creamy avocado combined with tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and lime creates a zesty topping that complements the steak wonderfully.
5. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn brushed with herb butter offers sweetness that pairs nicely with savory flavors from the beef.
6. Plantain Chips
   Crispy plantain chips provide a crunchy texture contrast while adding an exotic twist to your dining experience.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy on the outside provide natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory meats.
8. Mixed Green Salad
   A simple salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette offers freshness and lightness alongside rich grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling flank steak can be a rewarding experience, but several common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Bold marinades: Using a marinade that’s too salty can overpower the meat. Balance flavors by not exceeding recommended amounts of salty ingredients like soy sauce.
• Bold temperature mishaps: Grilling cold meat leads to uneven cooking. Always allow your flank steak to reach room temperature before grilling for consistent doneness.
• Bold cutting techniques: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Failing to do this can result in chewy steaks, so be sure to identify the grain direction before slicing.
• Bold overcooking: Overcooked flank steak becomes tough. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid cooking past medium.
• Bold resting time: Skipping the resting period after grilling can dry out your steak. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing for juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place steak in an oven-safe dish 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) until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth and reheat slices for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Grilled Cuban flank steak is marinated in citrus and spices, then grilled to perfection, offering bold flavors and tenderness.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes, you can substitute other cuts like sirloin or skirt steak, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Use an instant read meat thermometer; aim for 140-145°F for medium rare or 155-160°F for medium doneness.

What sides pair well with Grilled Cuban Flank Steak?

Serve with rice, black beans, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban flank steak is flavorful and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy an unforgettable meal!

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

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the bold flavors of Cuban cuisine to your table. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this marinated steak offers a delightful combination of zesty spices and juicy tenderness.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large flank steak (about 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, soy sauce, and chipotle powder to create the marinade.
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 up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat about 30 minutes before grilling.
4. Remove steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Grill for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare or about 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Cuban

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg