Name: Mouthwatering Flank Steak Marinade for Ultimate Grilling Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup less-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried ginger powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1.5-2.5 lbs flank steak (This cut absorbs flavors well and becomes tender.); 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (For garnish.)

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled flank steak, its deep, savory notes capturing the essence of outdoor cooking. It all begins with the marinade—a simple concoction of less-sodium soy sauce, honey, and a touch of ginger and garlic that infuses the meat with layers of flavor. When I first discovered this Flank Steak Marinade, I felt like I had stumbled upon a culinary secret that could breathe new life into our dinner routine.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a backyard barbecue or simply craving a home-cooked meal that feels special, this recipe effortlessly delivers. It requires just a little prep time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. The grilling is quick and yields juicy, tender slices that are perfect for taco nights or served alongside seasonal veggies. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s transform an ordinary steak into something extraordinary with this flavorful marinade!

Why is this Flank Steak Marinade a must-try?

Simplistic Preparation: This marinade requires only 10 minutes of prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Bold Flavors: The mix of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic creates a dynamic flavor profile that truly elevates the steak.

Perfect for Grilling: Achieve a beautifully grilled steak in just 10 minutes on high heat, letting you enjoy a delicious dinner without extensive cooking.

Versatile Delight: This marinade is not just for steak; try it with chicken or vegetables for equally delightful meals.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your friends and family with a gourmet taste that comes straight from your grill—perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.

Try pairing the steak with seasonal sides or incorporating it into recipes like salads or tacos for added deliciousness!

Delicious Flank Steak Marinade Ingredients

For the Marinade

Less-sodium soy sauce – This keeps the salt content lower while still providing rich umami flavors.
Vegetable oil – Helps to tenderize the meat and create a luscious marinade.
Honey – Adds a sweet depth, balancing the savory ingredients perfectly.
Seasoned rice vinegar – Brings a mild tanginess that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
Dried ginger powder – Offers a warm spice that pairs beautifully with the other elements.
Garlic powder – Infuses a robust flavor, elevating the marinade’s aromatic qualities.

For the Steak

Flank steak (1 ½ – 2 ½ lbs.) – This cut is ideal for marinating, as it absorbs flavors well and becomes incredibly tender.
Chopped green onions – Sprinkle these in for a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens up every bite.

How to Make Flank Steak Marinade

Whisk Together: In a small bowl, take your less-sodium soy sauce, vegetable oil, honey, seasoned rice vinegar, dried ginger powder, and garlic powder. Whisk everything until beautifully combined and smooth.
Marinate the Steak: Place your flank steak in a deep dish or a large Ziploc bag. Pour that delightful marinade over the steak, adding in the chopped green onions. Cover the dish or seal the bag tightly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to a full 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Pat Dry: Once marinated, carefully remove the steak and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade thoughtfully—this is meant to flavor the steak, not to be reused. Allow the steak to come to room temperature while you preheat your grill.
Preheat Grill: Set your grill to high direct heat, aiming for around 450°F. This high heat is crucial for that perfect grill char and juicy interior.
Grill the Steak: Place the steak on the grill, covering it for about 5 minutes to sear beautifully. Flip the steak and continue to cook, covered again, for 3-4 more minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness—think beautifully medium-rare!
Rest the Steak: Once grilled to perfection, remove the steak and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil to rest for 5-10 minutes which helps keep all those succulent juices intact.
Slice: Finally, slice the steak against the grain on a diagonal. This technique ensures tender bites that are easy to enjoy and full of flavor.

Optional: Garnish with additional chopped green onions for a fresh pop on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Flank Steak Marinade preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify beautifully. Simply whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable oil, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply marinate the flank steak for at least 2 hours but no longer than 24 hours for optimal flavor absorption. Remember to pat the steak dry before grilling for a perfect sear. With just a bit of prep ahead, you can have a gourmet meal at your fingertips, just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Flank Steak Marinade?

Surrounding your grilled steak with thoughtful sides can elevate your meal to the next level, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully, balancing the grilled steak’s rich, savory flavors. Add garlic for a delightful twist that complements the marinade.
Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned simply with olive oil and salt, grilled asparagus adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate while echoing the outdoor grilling experience.
Quinoa Salad: Tossed with fresh veggies and a lemon vinaigrette, this nutty salad brings brightness and a healthy crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the tender steak.
Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions topped on your steak create an enticing flavor profile that marries perfectly with the marinade’s sweetness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness matches the honey in the marinade, adding warmth and earthiness to your meal while providing a colorful side.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing offer a refreshing bite that brightens and complements the rich flavors of the steak.
Chimichurri Sauce: This zesty herb sauce adds a punch of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the marinade’s deeper notes. Perfect for drizzling on top of each slice!
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine can enhance your meal, complementing the marinade’s umami flavors while elevating the overall dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: A rich, velvety chocolate mousse rounds off your meal in an indulgent way, providing a delightful sweet end to a savory dining experience.

How to Store and Freeze Flank Steak Marinade

Fridge: Keep any leftover flank steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the marinated flank steak for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: To thaw, transfer the steak from the freezer to the fridge the night before cooking. This slow thaw ensures the meat remains juicy and flavorful.

Reheating: If you’ve already grilled the steak, gently reheat slices in a pan over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the meat.

Expert Tips for Flank Steak Marinade

Marination Time: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 2 hours; up to 24 hours enhances flavor depth. Don’t skip this step!
Temperature Matters: Always let the steak sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
Don’t Skip Drying: Pat the steak dry with paper towels before grilling. This step ensures a better sear and prevents steaming.
Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, as carryover cooking will raise the temp slightly.
Slice Right: Always slice against the grain for tender bites. This simple trick maximizes texture and flavor in your flank steak marinade dish.

Flank Steak Marinade Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creative juices flow and customize this marinade to suit your taste buds!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch that brightens the dish.
Citrus Twist: Incorporate fresh lime or lemon juice to add a zesty brightness, making it feel refreshingly light.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices to elevate the heat level for those who crave a little spice.
Sweet & Smoky: Substitute brown sugar for honey and add smoked paprika; this brings a delightful twist that complements the meat beautifully.
Asian Flair: Replace garlic powder with minced fresh garlic and add sesame oil for a more authentic Asian flavor profile.
Balsamic Touch: Use balsamic vinegar instead of rice vinegar for a richer sweetness and depth that will make your steak sing.
Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the meat.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.

Now go ahead and make this marinade truly your own; your taste buds will thank you!

Flank Steak Marinade Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for a piece that is deep red in color and has a good amount of marbling, which helps keep it tender and juicy during grilling. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or excessive fat. A flank steak should weigh between 1 ½ to 2 ½ lbs. for this recipe, so find one that fits comfortably within that range.

How should I store leftover marinated flank steak?
Very easy! Refrigerate any leftover flank steak in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely to room temperature before sealing it, as this helps maintain the meat’s freshness and quality.

Can I freeze the flank steak after marinating?
Definitely! To freeze marinated flank steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight to keep it juicy and flavorful.

What is the best way to reheat grilled flank steak?
Reheating is easy! If you’ve grilled your flank steak and have leftovers, the best method is to gently reheat slices in a pan over low heat. This way, it warms through without drying out. Generally, aim for 3-5 minutes until warmed, flipping occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid the microwave, as it can take away that beautiful juicy texture!

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?
Absolutely! This Flank Steak Marinade is versatile and works beautifully with chicken breasts or even vegetables. For chicken, marinate for about 1-2 hours. For veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, 30 minutes is sufficient to soak up all those lovely flavors. Experimenting can lead to some delightful surprises!

Can I give this dish to my pets?
It’s best to keep this dish away from your pets. While flank steak itself can be safe in moderation, ingredients like soy sauce are high in sodium, which isn’t suitable for pets. Always consult with your vet before sharing any human foods with your furry friends!