Citrus-Marinated Flank Steak Recipe: The Fresh, Zesty Twist Your BBQ Needs

Are you looking to wow your taste buds with a steak bursting with flavor? This citrus-marinated flank steak is here to deliver. It’s juicy, tender, and packed with the zesty brightness of fresh citrus. Whether firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ or making a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the marinade:

• 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the steak:

• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step 1: Craft the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Taste and adjust—you want the perfect tangy, sweet, and savory balance.

Step 2: Prep the Steak

Place your flank steak on a cutting board and lightly score the surface with a knife in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the marinade penetrate deeper. Season with salt and pepper, then place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.

Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Grilling:

1. Preheat your grill to high heat.
2. Remove the steak from the marinade and let the excess drip off. (There is no need to pat it dry—the remaining marinade will create a beautiful crust.)
3. Grill 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare or until your desired doneness.

Alternative Cooking Options:

• Broil: Set your oven to broil and cook the steak on a foil-lined baking sheet for 4–6 minutes per side.
• Pan-Sear: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add some oil, then cook the steak for 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes. This step is critical—resting keeps the juices where they belong: inside the steak!

When ready to serve, slice thinly against the grain. This makes each piece tender and easy to chew.

Serving Suggestions

This steak is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few ways to round out the meal:

• Serve with a crisp green salad or grilled veggies.
• Pair with roasted potatoes or fluffy rice.
• Add a drizzle of chimichurri or your favorite steak sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips and Variations

• No Soy Sauce? Swap it for tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free.
• Citrus Options: Experiment with grapefruit or blood orange for a fun twist.
• Spice It Up: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

This citrus-marinated flank steak recipe transforms an ordinary meal into something unforgettable. With its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite. So, grab some fresh citrus, fire up the grill, and enjoy every bite. Don’t forget to share your masterpiece—I’d love to see how it turns out!