Memorial Day is that glorious time of year when we gather our loved ones, fire up the grill, and celebrate the beginning of summer with delicious food. Picture this: the sun is shining, laughter fills the air, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled flank steak wafts through your backyard, making your neighbors green with envy. American Flag Fruit Pizza The juicy, marinated meat sizzles on the grill, creating those beautiful caramelized grill marks that scream flavor. Just the thought of it is enough to make you want to dive face-first into a plate of this delectable dish.
This Memorial Day Flank Steak recipe isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories. I still remember my first attempt at grilling flank steak. After a few mishaps and minor singes (thanks to a rogue flare-up), I managed to serve up a feast that had everyone asking for seconds. This dish is perfect for any gathering—whether you’re throwing a big party or just enjoying a quiet evening with close friends. Trust me; once you taste this savory delight, you’ll be counting down the days until your next cookout. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Memorial Day Flank Steak recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy hosts and novice cooks alike.
- The flavor profile balances sweet and savory elements perfectly, ensuring each bite is deliciously memorable.
- Its stunning presentation will have your guests snapping photos before they even sit down to eat.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for tacos, salads, or sandwiches—perfect for leftovers!
Ingredients for Memorial Day Flank Steak Recipes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose a piece that’s about 1-1.5 pounds; look for good marbling for maximum flavor.
- Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons will help keep the meat moist while grilling.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce adds depth without overwhelming saltiness.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch; about four cloves should do!
- Brown Sugar: This adds a delightful sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Lime Juice: A splash of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors remarkably.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Memorial Day Flank Steak Recipes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Flank Steak
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and lime juice until well combined. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least one hour—preferably overnight if you can wait!
Step 2: Prepare Your Grill
Fire up your grill and preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Make sure your grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Remove From Marinade
Take the flank steak out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade—trust me; you don’t want it turning into an unappetizing puddle on your plate!
Step 4: Grill That Steak
Place the flank steak on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use tongs to flip it only once—this helps get those gorgeous grill marks while keeping all those juices locked in.
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
Once cooked to your desired doneness (130°F or so for medium-rare), transfer the flank steak to a cutting board and let it rest for at least five minutes. This step is crucial as it allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Step 6: Slice Against The Grain
Finally, slice your beautifully grilled flank steak against the grain into thin strips—this ensures tenderness in every bite! Serve immediately with sides like grilled vegetables or fresh salad.
Transfer to plates and enjoy this amazing flavor experience that will have everyone asking how you became such a grill master!
You Must Know
- This Memorial Day Flank Steak recipe is easy to master and perfect for outdoor grilling.
- The marinated steak is bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any backyard barbecue.
- Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up without breaking a sweat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the flank steak for at least an hour to enhance its flavor. While it marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for that perfect char and juicy interior.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your marinade! Swap out balsamic vinegar for lime juice or add some honey for sweetness. Toss in your favorite herbs or spices to make this Memorial Day Flank Steak recipe uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the steak and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your flank steak rest after cooking; this helps retain its juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach the desired doneness without overcooking.
- For maximum flavor, marinate overnight if you can—your taste buds will thank you!
The first time I made this Memorial Day Flank Steak recipe, my friends devoured it in minutes—no leftovers! It became our go-to dish for summer gatherings after that deliciously chaotic day.
FAQs:
What are some popular marinades for Memorial Day Flank Steak Recipes?
When it comes to Memorial Day flank steak recipes, marinades play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor. Popular options include a classic chimichurri made with parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Alternatively, consider using a soy sauce-based marinade combined with ginger and honey for a sweet and savory twist. zesty cilantro lime chicken Citrus-based marinades, such as lime or orange juice mixed with spices, can also tenderize the meat while adding zesty flavors. slow cooker crack chicken chili Jamaican jerk sauce Experimenting with different herbs and spices allows you to customize your dish to your liking.
How do I grill flank steak perfectly for Memorial Day?
To grill flank steak perfectly for your Memorial Day gathering, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the steak is at room temperature before cooking. Season it generously with salt and pepper or your favorite spice blend. Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until you reach an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Let it rest for about 10 minutes after grilling before slicing against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Can I prepare flank steak ahead of time for Memorial Day?
Absolutely! Preparing flank steak ahead of time can save you stress on Memorial Day. You can marinate the steak a day in advance; just make sure to keep it refrigerated. On the day of your gathering, simply grill it shortly before serving. If you have leftover cooked steak, slice it thinly and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It makes a delicious addition to salads or sandwiches throughout the week!
What are some side dishes that pair well with flank steak?
Memorial Day flank steak recipes shine when paired with delicious side dishes. Classic options include grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or a refreshing corn salad with tomatoes and avocado. A creamy potato salad or coleslaw adds a traditional touch that appeals to many guests. Don’t forget about fresh bread or garlic bread for soaking up any delicious juices from the flank steak! For more inspiration, check out this baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
Conclusion for Memorial Day Flank Steak Recipes:
Memorial Day is an excellent occasion to showcase flavorful flank steaks that delight everyone at your gathering. By using marinades, grilling techniques, and pairing sides effectively, you can create an unforgettable meal. Remember to let your grilled steak rest before slicing to maintain its juiciness and tenderness. With these tips and recipes in mind, you’ll impress family and friends while enjoying great food together this holiday!
Memorial Day Flank Steak
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Memorial Day Flank Steak is the ultimate grilling dish that brings family and friends together to celebrate summer. This mouthwatering, tender steak is marinated in a blend of savory and sweet flavors before being grilled to perfection. Whether served hot off the grill or used in tacos and salads, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the barbecue.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Marinate the flank steak: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and lime juice. Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour in the marinade, seal or cover it, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight).
- Prepare your grill: Preheat to medium-high heat (400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Grill the steak: Remove from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Rest before slicing: Let the cooked steak rest for at least 5 minutes on a cutting board.
- Slice against the grain: Cut into thin strips and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 4 oz)
- Calories: 296
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Customize your marinade with herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin for added flavor. Leftover flank steak can be stored in an airtight container and used in salads or sandwiches.
