Nothing says summer grilling like a perfectly marinated flank steak sizzling over an open flame. This Marinated Flank Steak is tender, juicy, and infused with the rich flavors of a simple peach-soy marinade. The combination of sweet, salty, and savory notes creates an irresistible dish that’s both effortless and impressive. Whether you serve it as a main dish, slice it for tacos, or top a fresh salad, this steak is incredibly versatile. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick grilling time, it’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, or even meal prep. Serve it with grilled veggies, roasted potatoes, or a crisp wedge salad for a complete and satisfying meal!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup peach juice or peach nectar*
- 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes
- 1 flank steak
Directions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large Ziploc bag or container, combine oil, soy sauce, peach juice, minced onion, and parsley.
- Marinate the Steak: Add the flank steak to the bag, seal it, and lay it flat in the refrigerator for 3-6 hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Remove steak from the fridge about 20 minutes before grilling. Heat grill to high heat and clean/oil the grates.
- Grill the Steak: Remove steak from the marinade and discard excess liquid. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness:
- 125-130°F for rare
- 140°F for medium-rare
- 150°F for medium
- Rest and Slice: Remove from grill, cover with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain and serve.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 13 minutes
Calories: 159 kcal | Servings: 4
The Ultimate Guide to Marinated Flank Steak: A Flavorful & Easy Grilling Favorite
Flank steak is one of the most beloved cuts of beef for grilling, and when marinated properly, it transforms into a juicy, flavorful, and tender delight. This Marinated Flank Steak recipe has been a favorite for decades, thanks to its simple yet powerful blend of ingredients. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the background of flank steak, the benefits of this recipe, tips for perfect grilling, serving ideas, and ways to customize it for your taste.
The History and Popularity of Flank Steak
Flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow, making it lean yet packed with rich, beefy flavor. Historically, it has been a popular cut for grilling because of its quick cooking time and affordability. Unlike premium cuts such as ribeye or filet mignon, flank steak requires a bit of preparation—primarily marination and slicing against the grain—to maximize its tenderness.
Flank steak has been a staple in many cuisines worldwide:
- Latin American Cuisine: Used in dishes like carne asada and fajitas, marinated flank steak is grilled and sliced for tacos and burritos.
- Asian Cuisine: Frequently featured in stir-fries, flank steak absorbs marinades beautifully, making it a great protein for beef and broccoli, bulgogi, or teriyaki beef.
- European and American Cuisine: Popular for steak salads, sandwiches, and classic grilled entrees, flank steak is a go-to choice for summer cookouts.
Why This Marinated Flank Steak Recipe is the Best
1. Perfectly Balanced Marinade
This recipe uses a simple yet powerful marinade made with soy sauce, peach juice, dried onion, parsley, and oil. Each ingredient plays a crucial role:
- Soy sauce: Enhances umami flavor and acts as a natural tenderizer due to its salt content.
- Peach juice: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the beef’s richness while also breaking down muscle fibers for a more tender bite.
- Dried minced onion & parsley: Brings aromatic depth, giving the steak a delicious herby finish.
- Vegetable or canola oil: Helps the flavors absorb into the meat while preventing it from sticking to the grill.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
- With only 5 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of grilling, this recipe is one of the easiest ways to serve a gourmet-quality steak at home. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned grill masters.
3. Naturally Tender and Juicy
- Since flank steak is lean, it benefits greatly from marination. The peach juice and soy sauce work together to tenderize the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
4. Versatile and Customizable
- This marinated flank steak can be used in so many ways! Serve it as a main dish, use it for steak tacos, add it to salads, or make steak sandwiches with crusty bread and garlic aioli.
Health Benefits of Marinated Flank Steak
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also offers several nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein – Flank steak is packed with lean protein (about 23g per serving), which helps with muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Iron and Zinc – Essential for maintaining healthy red blood cells and boosting the immune system.
- Lower in Fat than Other Cuts – Unlike ribeye or T-bone steaks, flank steak is naturally leaner, making it a great option for those watching their fat intake.
- Marinade Adds Nutrients – The peach juice provides Vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption, while parsley adds antioxidants that promote heart health.
Expert Tips for the Best Grilled Flank Steak
- Don’t Over-Marinate – More than 12 hours can make the texture mushy.
- Let the Meat Rest – Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak moist.
- Slice Against the Grain – Cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers ensures tenderness.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Guarantees perfect doneness every time!
Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Marinated Flank Steak
Pair your grilled steak with delicious side dishes to complete the meal:
- Air Fryer Baked Potato – Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.
- Classic Wedge Salad – Crisp iceberg lettuce with blue cheese dressing.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet and smoky flavor complements the steak.
- No-Knead Artisan Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful steak juices.
- Roasted Vegetables – Adds color, nutrition, and extra flavor.
Recipe Variations: Customize Your Marinated Flank Steak
- Flank Steak Fajitas – Serve with sautéed bell peppers and onions, warm tortillas, and guacamole.
- Flank Steak Tacos – Top with fresh pico de gallo, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
- Steak Salad – Serve on mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and blue cheese.
- Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for extra heat.
Conclusion
This Marinated Flank Steak recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner, a summer BBQ, or meal prepping for the week, this steak delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. The sweet and savory marinade makes the steak incredibly juicy, and when cooked correctly, it’s guaranteed to impress every time. Try it once, and you’ll see why this recipe has been a family favorite for decades!