how to cook costco flank steak with lime cilantro marinade

Indulge in the culinary artistry of creating a succulent and flavorful Costco flank steak marinated in a tantalizing blend of lime, cilantro, and aromatic spices. This blog post will guide you through the culinary journey, providing step-by-step instructions and valuable tips to ensure a mouthwatering dining experience.

Selecting the Perfect Flank Steak

At Costco, you’ll find premium-quality flank steaks ideal for this recipe. Look for steaks that are a deep red color, with minimal marbling and a firm texture. Avoid steaks that are pale or have excessive fat.

Preparing the Lime Cilantro Marinade

The marinade is the key to infusing your steak with an explosion of zesty flavors. In a large bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Marinating the Flank Steak

Place the flank steak in the prepared marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight. The longer the steak marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Grilling the Flank Steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Season the steak with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 135°F. For medium, cook to 145°F. For medium-well, cook to 155°F.

Resting the Steak

Once the steak is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.

Slicing and Serving

Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a tangy salsa.

Tips for Cooking a Perfect Flank Steak

• Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the steak in a skillet or under a broiler.
• Experiment with different marinades to create unique flavor profiles.

Flavorful Variations

• Spicy Flank Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Herb-infused Flank Steak: Incorporate fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the marinade for a fragrant and aromatic twist.
• Asian-inspired Flank Steak: Use soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil in the marinade for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.

Accompanying Sides

• Grilled Vegetables: Sauté or grill your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
• Rice: Serve the steak over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice.
• Salsa: Prepare a fresh salsa using tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
• Guacamole: Create a creamy and flavorful guacamole to pair with the steak.

Beyond the Grill

• Slow Cooker Flank Steak: Marinate the steak and place it in a slow cooker with a cup of beef broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.
• Flank Steak Tacos: Shred the grilled steak and use it to fill tacos with your favorite toppings.
• Flank Steak Salad: Slice the grilled steak and toss it over a bed of mixed greens, vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use other citrus juices in the marinade?
A: Yes, you can use lemon juice or orange juice instead of lime juice.

Q: How can I tenderize the flank steak before grilling?
A: You can use a meat mallet to pound the steak before marinating it.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
A: You can use 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro instead of fresh cilantro.

Q: Can I grill the steak without marinating it?
A: Yes, but marinating the steak enhances its flavor and tenderness.

Q: How long can I store the marinated steak in the refrigerator?
A: You can store the marinated steak in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.