Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Flank Steak?
It is a flavor-packed dish featuring flank steak marinated in a tangy blend of garlic, jalapeño, lime, and fresh cilantro, then grilled to perfection.
What are the primary flavors in this marinade?
The marinade combines the boldness of fresh garlic, spicy jalapeño, fragrant cilantro, and tangy lime juice.
How many garlic cloves are required for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 peeled garlic cloves.
What type of onion is used in the marinade?
One-half of a red onion, chopped, is used for the marinade base.
Can I use a different cut of meat besides flank steak?
Yes, while flank steak is recommended, this recipe is versatile and works well with any cut of beef that is on sale or preferred.
How long should the flank steak marinate?
For optimal flavor absorption, it is recommended to refrigerate the steak in the marinade overnight.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Combine garlic, red onion, lime juice, jalapeño, thyme, and cilantro in a blender or food processor and puree until well-integrated.
When do I add the oil and honey to the marinade?
Add the 3/4 cup of corn oil and 2 tablespoons of honey after the initial ingredients have been pureed, then blend again until fully combined.
How much marinade should I use for the steak itself?
Place the steak in a bag and pour in 1/2 cup of the prepared marinade, reserving the rest for serving.
Is the steak spicy?
The recipe includes one whole jalapeño, which provides a spicy kick to the zesty flavor profile.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves and 1 cup of loosely packed cilantro leaves.
How should I prepare the grill?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking the steak.
Should the steak be cold when placed on the grill?
No, it is best to let the steak sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes after removing it from the refrigerator.
Do I reuse the marinade from the bag?
No, you should discard any marinade that was in the bag with the raw meat for safety.
When should I season the steak with salt?
Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt right before placing it on the grill.
What type of grill provides the best aroma for this dish?
A charcoal grill is recommended to introduce an irresistible smoky aroma to the meat.
How long does it take to grill the steak for medium-rare?
Grill the steak for approximately 4 minutes on each side.
What should I do after removing the steak from the grill?
Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure it remains juicy.
What is the proper way to slice flank steak?
Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices ranging from 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
How do I use the reserved marinade?
Drizzle the reserved marinade over the sliced steak just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 228 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 23g of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 12g of fat per serving.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
Yes, it contains 4g of sugar, primarily from the 2 tablespoons of honey used in the marinade.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
There are 9g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much steak is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 lbs of flank steak.
What type of oil is used?
The recipe specifies 3/4 cup of corn oil.
Is this recipe good for summer entertaining?
Yes, it is described as ideal for summer barbecues due to its grilled nature and zesty flavors.
How do I prepare the limes?
You will need the juice of 2 limes for the marinade mixture.
What preparation is needed for the jalapeño?
The jalapeño is used whole in the blender mixture.