Introduction
Grilling is a quintessential summer activity, and this delicious flank steak recipe paired with vibrant grilled vegetables showcases the true essence of outdoor cooking. The combination of smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and seasonal produce creates a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. Get ready to fire up the grill and enjoy the flavors of this simple yet impressive dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds flank steak
1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
2 cloves garlic, minced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons canola oil, divided
3 ears corn, shucked
2 large zucchini, halved lengthwise
1 pint cherry tomatoes
For the olive oil mixture:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1½ tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
By following these steps and using these ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful grilled flank steak meal complemented by deliciously charred vegetables, all ready to be enjoyed in no time.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Olive Oil Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chopped fresh rosemary, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside for later use.
Season the Flank Steak
Take the flank steak and season it with smoked paprika and minced garlic, ensuring to rub the mixture thoroughly on all sides. Then, season it with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Brush the steak lightly with 1 tablespoon of canola oil to enhance the grilling process.
Preheat the Grill
Set the grill to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the flank steak and vegetables.
Prepare the Vegetables
Brush the shucked corn, halved zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of canola oil. Season the vegetables with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Grill the Flank Steak
Place the seasoned flank steak onto the preheated grill. Cook the steak, flipping it once, until it reaches your desired level of doneness. This should take about 4-6 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Grill the Vegetables
Add the prepared vegetables to the grill. Cook the corn for about 8 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill the zucchini for approximately 5 minutes, and the cherry tomatoes for 2 minutes, or until they are lightly charred and tender.
Serve the Dish
Slice the rested flank steak and serve immediately. Drizzle the grilled steak and vegetables with the prepared olive oil mixture before serving for added flavor.
Notes
Selecting Flank Steak
Choose a flank steak that is bright red in color with minimal fat for the best flavor and tenderness.
Adjusting Vegetable Cooking Times
Cooking times for vegetables may vary based on their size and thickness. Check for doneness and adjust the grilling time as necessary.
Flavor Enhancements
Feel free to add other seasonings or herbs to the olive oil mixture for a personalized flavor profile (e.g., thyme, oregano, or lemon zest).
Resting the Steak
Letting the steak rest is crucial for a juicy result; it helps prevent juices from running out when it is sliced.
Grilling Alternatives
If a grill is unavailable, you can use a grill pan or broiler as an alternative cooking method for the steak and vegetables.
Cook techniques
Marinating Steak
Marinate flank steak by seasoning it with smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and letting it sit to absorb flavors. This enhances the overall taste and tenderness, making it more delicious when grilled.
Preheating the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the steak and vegetables. This ensures a good sear and helps lock in juices.
Grilling Steak
Cook the flank steak on the grill, flipping it once for even cooking. Aim for about 4-6 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on your preferred doneness level. Rest the steak after grilling for optimal juiciness.
Grilling Vegetables
Brush vegetables with canola oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling. Cook corn for about 8 minutes, zucchini for 5 minutes, and cherry tomatoes for 2 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve a nice char.
Drizzling with Olive Oil Mixture
Prepare an olive oil mixture with rosemary, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Drizzle it over the grilled steak and vegetables just before serving for extra flavor.
FAQ
What is flank steak?
Flank steak is a cut of beef from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is known for its rich beefy flavor and is best cooked quickly at high temperatures.
Can I use other cuts of meat besides flank steak?
Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts such as skirt steak or sirloin, but cooking times may vary based on the thickness and type of meat.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well. Alternatively, you can use the touch test for doneness.
Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?
Yes, you can shuck the corn, halve the zucchini, and rinse the cherry tomatoes ahead of time. Just keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to grill.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce or extra olive oil mixture on the side.
Conclusion
This grilled flank steak dish, paired with seasonal vegetables, is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The smoked paprika and fresh rosemary enhance the natural taste of the ingredients, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The preparation is simple, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends and family. Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh tastes of summer on your plate.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Combine grilled shrimp with cabbage slaw and a squeeze of lime for a fresh taco option. Serve with your favorite salsa for added flavor.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Use zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and any other favorite vegetables in a quick stir-fry. Add tofu or chicken for protein, seasoned with garlic and soy sauce.
Beef and Vegetable Skewers
Cut the flank steak and zucchini into chunks, and skewer them with cherry tomatoes for delicious kebabs. Grill until charred and serve with a garlic yogurt dip.
Roasted Corn Salad
Char the corn on the grill, then combine with diced tomatoes, avocado, lime juice, and fresh herbs for a refreshing salad.
Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato Sauce
Spiralize zucchini and sauté with minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil for a light pasta alternative.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Hollow out zucchini halves and fill them with a mixture of ground beef, cherry tomatoes, and herbs. Bake until the zucchini is tender and the filling is cooked through.
