Introduction
Welcome to a culinary adventure that’s sure to steal hearts and tantalize taste buds! This 20-Minute Chili Lime Flank Steak is perfect for anyone who craves a quick, delicious meal brimming with bold flavors. Imagine a juicy flank steak, marinated to perfection in a zesty blend of lime and spices, grilled to a delightful char that locks in all the savory goodness. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe will not disappoint!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by creating your vibrant marinade. In a small bowl, mix together the lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a little extra heat. Stir until well combined.
- Place your flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s beautifully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. You want to get it nice and hot to achieve that mouthwatering sear.
- Take the marinated steak out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off (but don’t rinse it—those flavors are precious!). Discard the leftover marinade.
- Carefully place the steak on the grill and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. Aim for a nice sear and juicy interior!
- Once grilled to perfection, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent.
- Finally, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Garnish with fresh cilantro for that burst of color and flavor, then serve and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lime zest to your marinade! If you have time, letting the steak marinate for longer amplifies the taste wonderfully. Also, for a delightful side, serve with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad to complete your meal.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling is a fantastic method for cooking flank steak as it allows for a quick cook time while adding a lovely charred flavor. If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan works beautifully as well. Just remember, the key to tender beef is slicing against the grain!
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of beef? Yes, while flank steak is ideal for this recipe, you can also try using skirt steak or sirloin for different flavor profiles.
What if I don’t have a grill? A stovetop grill pan or broiler will work just as well. Just keep an eye on the steak to prevent overcooking.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
Conclusion
This 20-Minute Chili Lime Flank Steak is not only a quick and easy recipe but also a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, the combination of zesty lime and smoky chili flavors creates a memorable meal that’s packed with love. Happy cooking!