Budget-friendly gourmet: cook costco flank steak like a pro with this easy lime cilantro marinade

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a juicy and flavorful flank steak? Costco’s flank steak, renowned for its affordability and versatility, makes the perfect canvas for a zesty lime and cilantro marinade. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of cooking Costco flank steak with this refreshing and aromatic marinade, ensuring a mouthwatering meal that will impress even the most discerning palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 Costco flank steak (about 1.5-2 pounds)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

1. Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the meat to cook more evenly and reduces the risk of overcooking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Marinating

1. Place the flank steak in the marinade and turn to coat it evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight. The longer the steak marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Grilling

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F).
2. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess.
3. Grill the steak for 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F; for medium, 135-140°F; and for medium-well, 140-145°F.

Slicing and Serving

1. Let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
2. Serve the flank steak with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfection

• Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This will prevent the meat from becoming tough.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the flank steak in a skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat.
• For a more intense flavor, marinate the steak for longer. Up to 24 hours is ideal.
• Don’t overcook the steak. Flank steak is a lean cut, so it’s important to cook it quickly over high heat to prevent it from becoming dry.

Variations

• Add some chopped jalapeño peppers to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Use orange juice or pineapple juice instead of lime juice for a sweeter marinade.
• Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.

Substitutions

• If you don’t have flank steak, you can use another lean cut of beef, such as skirt steak or sirloin steak.
• If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can use dried cilantro. However, fresh cilantro will provide a more vibrant flavor.
• If you don’t have olive oil, you can use another type of vegetable oil, such as canola oil or avocado oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long can I marinate the steak?
A: The steak can be marinated for up to 24 hours. However, 4-8 hours is usually sufficient.

Q: What is the best way to slice the steak?
A: Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This will prevent the meat from becoming tough.

Q: How do I know when the steak is done cooking?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F; for medium, 135-140°F; and for medium-well, 140-145°F.