The Tequila Lime Flank Steak is a mouthwatering dish that brings together bold flavors and tender meat. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any festive gathering, this recipe highlights the delightful combination of tequila and lime. The marinade infuses the flank steak with zesty notes, making it a standout choice for meat lovers. Whether you’re serving it at a casual cookout or a more formal occasion, this steak is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to go.
- Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste that elevates the steak.
- Versatile Serving Options: Great on its own or served with sides like rice, veggies, or in tacos.
- Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor cooking, bringing friends and family together around the grill.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering with its unique flavor profile.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you’re equipped with the right tools. Having the essential kitchen gear will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large gallon-sized resealable bag
- Grill
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large gallon-sized resealable bag: This is perfect for marinating the steak evenly while keeping cleanup easy.
- Grill: A good grill is essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the flank steak.
- Medium saucepan: Needed for simmering the marinade to create a rich sauce to serve with your dish.
Ingredients
Beautiful flank steak marinated in a tequila lime mixture then grilled to perfection that is sure to be a hit with the family!
For the Marinade
- 3 heads garlic (chopped)
- 3/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup blanco tequila
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (sliced)
- 1 Tbsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
For the Steak
- 2 lb flank steak
How to Make Tequila Lime Flank Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large gallon-sized bag, add chopped garlic, lime juice, tequila, soy sauce, cilantro, jalapeño, black pepper, and cumin.
- Seal the bag and mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
- Add the flank steak to the bag with the marinade.
- Seal again and ensure that the marinade coats all sides of the steak.
- Place in the refrigerator and let marinate for about 2-3 hours.
Step 3: Preheat Grill
- When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
- Remove the steak from the marinade (keep marinade) and place it on the grill.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer if you prefer it more well-done.
Step 5: Resting Period
- Once cooked, remove steak from grill and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare Sauce from Marinade
- While the steak rests, pour reserved marinade from bag into a medium saucepan.
- Heat over medium-high heat until just simmering; let simmer for 2-3 minutes then strain and reserve.
Step 7: Serve Your Dish
- Slice steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve immediately with reserved marinade as dressing over your sliced flank steak.
Enjoy your flavorful Tequila Lime Flank Steak, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Tequila Lime Flank Steak
Tequila Lime Flank Steak is a flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to please your family and guests. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Tacos
- Use warm corn tortillas to wrap slices of flank steak and top with fresh salsa, diced onions, and cilantro for a delicious taco.
Salad
- Slice the steak over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Burrito Bowls
- Layer rice, black beans, sliced flank steak, and your favorite toppings like cheese and guacamole for a hearty burrito bowl.
Sandwiches
- Serve the steak in crusty bread with aioli, arugula, and pickled jalapeños for a tasty sandwich option.
Fajitas
- Sauté bell peppers and onions in a skillet; add sliced flank steak for quick fajitas. Serve with warm tortillas.
Skewers
- Cut the steak into cubes and thread onto skewers with vegetables for grilled steak skewers. Perfect for appetizers or outdoor dining!
How to Perfect Tequila Lime Flank Steak
To achieve the best flavor and tenderness in your Tequila Lime Flank Steak, follow these essential tips.
- Marinate properly: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 2-3 hours to absorb all the flavors from the marinade.
- Use high heat: Grill on medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Rest the meat: Letting the steak rest after grilling helps redistribute the juices, making it more tender when sliced.
- Slice against the grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each bite is tender. This is crucial for flank steak!
Best Side Dishes for Tequila Lime Flank Steak
Pairing sides with your Tequila Lime Flank Steak can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that complements the steak perfectly; consider garnishing with lime wedges.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter adds a delightful crunch alongside your meal.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness; serve it chilled as a side or topping.
- Refried Beans: A classic Mexican side; they add protein and fiber to balance out your plate.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make an excellent appetizer before serving the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted till tender provide color and nutrition; season them lightly to let their flavors shine.
- Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of grilled steak.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This light side dish adds another layer of zest that pairs beautifully with flank steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating flank steak incorrectly can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the marinade time: Failing to allow enough time for marinating can result in bland meat. Aim for at least 2-3 hours for full flavor penetration.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale garlic or wilted cilantro can diminish the recipe’s quality. Always choose fresh herbs and spices for the best taste.
- Overcooking the steak: Cooking flank steak too long will make it tough. Monitor cooking times closely, aiming for medium-rare doneness.
- Cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain will yield chewy pieces. Always cut against the grain for tender slices.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking can lead to juices running out. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Freezing Tequila Lime Flank Steak
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Tequila Lime Flank Steak
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped in foil until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Tequila Lime Flank Steak.
Can I use other cuts of meat?
You can substitute skirt steak or sirloin, but adjust cooking times based on thickness.
How do I know when my flank steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
What sides pair well with Tequila Lime Flank Steak?
Consider serving with grilled vegetables, rice, or a zesty salad that complements the flavors.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the steak a day before cooking for even more flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Tequila Lime Flank Steak is a flavorful and versatile dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or adjusting the marinade ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and impress your loved ones with its vibrant flavors!

Tequila Lime Flank Steak
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Tequila Lime Flank Steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer grilling. This recipe infuses tender flank steak with a zesty marinade made from fresh lime juice, blanco tequila, garlic, and cilantro, delivering an explosion of taste in every bite. Ideal for barbecues, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile in its serving options. Enjoy it sliced in tacos, atop salads, or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 lb flank steak
- 3 heads garlic (chopped)
- 3/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup blanco tequila
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (sliced)
- 1 Tbsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- In a large resealable bag, combine chopped garlic, lime juice, tequila, soy sauce, cilantro, jalapeño, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well.
- Add the flank steak to the bag and ensure it's evenly coated in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness.
- After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve with reserved marinade as a dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 6 oz or 170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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