As the sun shines brighter and days grow longer, there’s something undeniably appealing about firing up the grill for dinner. One dish that stands out in this delightful season is Grilled Flank Steak with Tomato Salad. This recipe not only showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients but also embraces a health-conscious attitude that’s perfect for summer dining.
Flavor & Texture
Imagine the satisfaction of biting into a tender, juicy flank steak, perfectly grilled to your liking, paired with a refreshing burst of grape tomatoes. The tomatoes, halved and lightly seasoned, bring a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the savory, smoky notes of the steak. The addition of fresh cilantro and a hint of heat from sliced jalapeños elevate the dish, making it vibrant and multidimensional on the palette.
Simplicity & Health Benefits
What makes this Grilled Flank Steak with Tomato Salad a go-to recipe for summer gatherings? Its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients, including grape tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, cilantro, and a small jalapeño, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but nutritionally beneficial as well. Lean flank steak is an excellent source of protein, while tomatoes provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C and K, along with dietary fiber.
Perfect for summer BBQs, this dish can be easily adapted to your dietary needs and preferences, making it a versatile option for any meal. Serve it as a main dish at your next backyard party or as part of a healthy weeknight dinner. Pair it with a side of quinoa or whole grain bread to create a complete meal.
Quick Facts
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Nutrition Tags: High Protein, Low Carb, Gluten-Free
Key Highlights
- Flavor: Combines smoky grilled steak with sweet, tangy tomatoes.
- Nutrition: Rich in protein and vitamins, making it a wholesome choice.
- Versatility: Perfect for family dinners or summer gatherings.
Test Kitchen Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: For extra flavor, marinate the flank steak in the olive oil, garlic, and jalapeño mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Rest Your Steak: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
- Uniform Cooking: Slice your flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness, enhancing the enjoyable texture.
- Tomato Variations: Feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables, such as corn or bell peppers, for a more colorful salad.
- Olive Oil Substitution: If you prefer, avocado oil can also be used as a substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
Nutrition Notes
Each serving of the Grilled Flank Steak with Tomato Salad packs a punch with essential nutrients. Flank steak is high in protein, contributing significantly to your daily intake. Meanwhile, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been associated with numerous health benefits. For more information on the nutritional value of tomatoes, check out Healthline.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 300mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Grilled Flank Steak with Tomato Salad: A Fresh Take on Summer Grilling
1. Can I use another cut of beef instead of flank steak?
Yes! Skirt steak or sirloin can work well, although the cooking times may vary slightly.
2. What can I substitute for cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be great alternatives that still provide a fresh herb flavor.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ahead of time and grill the steak when ready to serve, making it a convenient pick for meal prep.
4. Can I grill the steak indoors?
If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or broil in your oven to achieve a similar effect.
5. What sides pair well with this dish?
This meal pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, cilantro lime rice, or even a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
