Grilled Cilantro Lime Steak
This Grilled Cilantro Lime Steak recipe features tender steak marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection. It's a flavorful and juicy dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- medium bowl
- shallow dish
- large, sealable plastic bag
- grill
- cutting board
- foil
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1.5 - 2 lbs flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin steak
For the Cilantro Lime Marinade
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced optional
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
- Whisk together cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño (if using), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
Marinate the Steak
- Place steak in a shallow dish or plastic bag and pour marinade over, ensuring it is fully coated. Massage marinade into the meat.
Chill Out
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor. Do not marinate for more than 12 hours.
Preheat the Grill
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F / 200-230°C) and lightly oil the grates.
Grill the Steak
- Remove steak from marinade, discard excess, and place on the hot grill. Grill 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (flank/skirt steak) or 5-7 minutes per side for medium; adjust for sirloin.
Rest and Slice
- Transfer steak to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
Serve
- Slice steak thinly against the grain, garnish with cilantro and lime wedge if desired.
Notes
For extra tenderness, score the flank or skirt steak against the grain before marinating. Always slice steak against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier chewing. If you don't have a grill, you can cook the steak in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, following similar cooking times.