Chili Lime Flank Steak is a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds, blending zesty lime and smoky chili for an unforgettable experience. Imagine biting into perfectly seared flank steak, bursting with juicy goodness and a tangy kick that makes your mouth water. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
This dish isn’t just about savoring flavors; it’s about creating memories. Picture this: you’re hosting a summer barbecue, the sun is setting, and the tantalizing aroma of Chili Lime Flank Steak wafts through the air, drawing friends and family to your backyard oasis. Get ready to be the star of your next gathering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chili Lime Flank Steak recipe is easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying great company.
- The flavor profile combines zesty lime with savory spices, making it a crowd-pleaser for any palate.
- Its vibrant presentation will make your dinner table pop with color and excitement.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for tacos, salads, or sandwiches!
Ingredients for Chili Lime Flank Steak
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose a well-marbled flank steak for tenderness and flavor; about 1-2 pounds should suffice.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the marinade’s brightness; avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Zest of One Lime: The zest adds an extra zing that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves provide depth and aroma; minced or crushed works best.
- Chili Powder: Use a good-quality chili powder for that smoky heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Cumin: Ground cumin adds warmth; it’s essential in balancing the flavors of the marinade.
- Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons will help to emulsify the marinade and keep the steak moist while cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste before grilling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chili Lime Flank Steak
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic cloves, chili powder, ground cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This vibrant marinade packs a punch of flavor that will infuse every bite of your flank steak.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place your flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring every inch is coated. Seal or cover it tightly and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour—overnight is even better if you can wait.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Get that grill fired up! Preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using charcoal, let those coals get nice and hot until they’re covered in grey ash.
Step 4: Grill Time
Remove the steak from the marinade (don’t forget to discard any leftover marinade!). Place it on the hot grill and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Use tongs to flip it—no poking with a fork allowed!
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once done grilling, transfer your steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about five minutes. This step is crucial as it keeps all those flavorful juices locked inside.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
Slice against the grain into thin strips—this ensures maximum tenderness. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus goodness.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every juicy bite!
You Must Know
- This Chili Lime Flank Steak recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds; it makes dinner prep feel like a fiesta.
- The vibrant flavors dance on your palate, and it’s perfect for grilling, but also shines in the oven or on the stovetop.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve juicy, flavorful Chili Lime Flank Steak, start by marinating the steak while preparing your grill. Sear the steak on high heat to lock in those amazing flavors before finishing off with a lower temperature for perfect doneness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative with this Chili Lime Flank Steak! Swap lime juice for lemon or add a splash of orange juice for extra citrus zing. Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or even some diced jalapeños for added heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chili Lime Flank Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain tenderness, or enjoy cold in salads or wraps. crunchy broccoli salad.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your steak rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
- Don’t skip marinating; it’s where all the flavor magic happens.
- Lastly, use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked steak every time.
I remember the first time I made Chili Lime Flank Steak for my friends. Their faces lit up with joy as they devoured it, and someone even declared it “the best thing I’ve ever eaten!” That moment made me realize how powerful good food can be.
FAQs :
What is Chili Lime Flank Steak?
Chili lime flank steak is a flavorful dish that features flank steak marinated in a mixture of chili powder, fresh lime juice, garlic, and other spices. This combination creates a zesty, spicy profile that enhances the natural taste of the beef. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with vibrant flavors. Grilling or searing the steak adds a smoky element, making it perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinner nights. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
How do I prepare the marinade for Chili Lime Flank Steak?
To prepare the marinade for chili lime flank steak, combine fresh lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients until well blended. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor absorption. This simple marinade elevates your dish to another level!
Can I cook Chili Lime Flank Steak in an oven?
Yes, you can cook chili lime flank steak in an oven if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After marinating the steak, place it on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20–25 minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remember to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure juiciness. Oven cooking still delivers delicious results!
What sides pair well with Chili Lime Flank Steak?
Chili lime flank steak pairs exceptionally well with various sides. Consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers or a fresh corn salad for a vibrant meal. Rice dishes like cilantro lime rice complement the flavors beautifully as well. Chipotle ranch grilled chicken For a lighter option, a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the beef.
Conclusion for Chili Lime Flank Steak :
In summary, chili lime flank steak is an easy yet impressive dish that bursts with flavor from its zesty marinade. Preparing this meal involves simple steps like marinating and grilling or baking the steak until perfectly cooked. fresh homemade Caesar salad Enjoying it with complementary sides enhances your dining experience further. Whether you serve it at gatherings or family dinners, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at your table!
Chili Lime Flank Steak
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chili Lime Flank Steak is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the bright flavors of fresh lime and smoky chili spices. Perfectly marinated flank steak is grilled to juicy perfection, making it an irresistible centerpiece for your summer gatherings. Whether served in tacos, salads, or on its own with a side of lime wedges, this recipe is sure to leave your guests asking for more.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chili powder, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly; marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard it. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 4 oz cooked steak)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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