Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner that will impress your guests? Look no further! This Flank Steak recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Ina Garten herself, is the perfect solution. It’s a simple weeknight meal elevated to something truly special with minimal effort. Get ready to experience perfectly tender, juicy flank steak bursting with delicious, savory flavors. This recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create delicious dishes with homemade cooking. This is one of those best recipes that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Preparing the Flank Steak:
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Pat the steak dry: This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of the flank steak. Any moisture will hinder browning.
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Season generously: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the flank steak, ensuring it's evenly coated. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
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Let it rest: Allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender outcome.
Cooking the Flank Steak:
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Sear the steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the flank steak in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice crust forms. This step contributes to the delicious crust and overall flavor profile.
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Reduce the heat: Lower the heat to medium and continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overcooking will result in a tough steak.
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Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Slicing and Serving:
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Slice against the grain: Once rested, slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This is essential for tenderness. If you slice with the grain, the steak will be tough.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the sliced flank steak immediately. It’s delicious on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Flank Steak:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space in the skillet for the steak to sear properly. If necessary, cook the steak in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your stovetop. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Variations:
- Marinade: For an even more flavorful steak, marinate it in your favorite marinade for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Herb-infused oil: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the olive oil, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Garlic butter: After searing, add a knob of butter and a few cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and baste the steak with the flavorful butter for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy flank steak recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a healthy and delicious meal that's sure to please everyone. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking and a fantastic example of delicious dishes achievable with minimal effort! Remember to adapt the recipe to your preferences; cooking is all about experimentation and finding what tastes best to you.