Name: Flank Steak Marinade
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds flank steak; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried thyme

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Flank steak is a culinary marvel, offering rich and savory flavors that truly shine when marinated. The magic lies in the marinade, which enhances the natural juiciness of the meat while imparting depth and character. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the entire cooking process — the aromas wafting through your kitchen, the vibrant colors of fresh ingredients, and the knowledge that you’re about to indulge in a delicious meal. Whether you’re preparing for a casual family dinner or an outdoor barbecue with friends, this flank steak marinade will elevate your dish and leave everyone raving.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Flank Steak Marinade
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Flank Steak Marinade

I remember the first time I marinated flank steak. The tantalizing smell filled my kitchen as I mixed together simple ingredients, all of which I had lying around. I was amazed at how such a brief marinating time could lead to jaw-dropping deliciousness. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special occasions. You don’t even need a grill to make it perfect— just a cast-iron skillet or your oven. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepping the marinade and letting it rest only takes about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is just as easy.
Irresistible Flavor: A harmonious blend of garlic, herbs, and soy creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The juicy, beautifully browned slices are sure to wow your guests.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for tacos, salads, or as a dinner centerpiece alongside roasted veggies.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 pounds flank steak: A lean cut that’s incredibly flavorful when marinated and sliced against the grain.
1/4 cup olive oil: Provides moisture and helps the marinade adhere to the meat, enhancing flavors.
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds acidity which tenderizes the meat while infusing it with a tangy kick.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: A crucial umami element that deepens the savory notes.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and depth to the marinade.
1 tablespoon honey: Offers a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of soy sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor with its aromatic qualities.
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
1 teaspoon salt: Needed to enhance the flavors and season the meat properly.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and a mild kick.
1 tablespoon dried thyme: Infuses a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

How to Make Flank Steak Marinade

Combine the Ingredients: In a gallon-sized zip-top bag or large container, mix together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon dried thyme. The texture should be smooth, with all ingredients well incorporated.
Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in the marinade, ensuring each side is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Cook the Flank Steak: When ready, remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. You can cook it by baking at 425°F for 13-17 minutes, grilling over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or pan-frying in a cast-iron skillet for 7-8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the flank steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for freshness. Slice against the grain to serve, which ensures tenderness in every bite.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover flank steak, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked steak for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, approximately 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that reheating may change the texture slightly, so enjoy the first bite fresh if possible!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid over-marinating: Flank steak can become mushy if left in the marinade for too long. Anytime from 20 minutes to overnight is perfect.
Use room temperature steak: Letting the flank steak sit out for about 30 minutes prior to cooking helps it cook more evenly.
Sear for flavor: If pan-frying, a good sear will develop a beautiful crust, which enhances the overall flavor.
Trust your thermometer: Cooking times vary; rely on a meat thermometer for perfect doneness every time.
Make it a meal: Add grilled veggies or a fresh salad to round out your meal beautifully.

This marinade not only enhances the flank steak’s flavor but also promotes tenderness, making each steak bite enjoyable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or vinegars to create your own signature twist.

Recipe FAQs

How long can you marinate flank steak?

Marinating flank steak for 20 minutes to 24 hours is ideal. While shorter times impart good flavor, longer marinating gives you a more tender and flavorful cut. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat may become overly mushy.

Can I use this marinade for other cuts of meat?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with other types of steak, chicken, or even pork. Just make sure to adjust cooking time according to the meat’s thickness and type.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes weeknight cooking even simpler—just grab it when you’re ready to cook!

What’s the best way to slice flank steak?

To ensure tenderness, always slice flank steak against the grain. Look for the direction of the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them. This will result in more tender, bite-sized pieces that are easier to chew.

With its delicious combo of flavors and ease of preparation, the flank steak marinade is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re throwing a backyard barbecue or prepping a cozy dinner at home, give this recipe a try. Enjoy the tender, juicy results that truly reflect the heart of good cooking!

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Flank Steak Marinade

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Author: Peter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dishes
Method: Grilling, Baking, Searing
Cuisine: American

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Description

This Flank Steak Marinade packs irresistible flavor with simple prep and key ingredients like garlic and honey. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds flank steak
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried thyme

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Instructions

In a gallon-sized zip top bag or large container, combine all ingredients and mix well.
Add the flank steak to the marinade, ensuring all sides are coated. Chill for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight.
Cook the flank steak as desired: Bake at 425°F for 13-17 minutes; Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side; or Cook in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 7-8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness.
Let the steak rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley and slice thinly against the grain to serve.

Notes

Marinating the steak overnight intensifies the flavor.
For the best results, use fresh herbs when possible.
Ensure to slice against the grain for tender pieces.