Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as impressive as it is easy, then you’ve come to the right place! This Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak has become a favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this recipe shines. The succulent flavors from the marinade really elevate the skirt steak, making every bite melt in your mouth. Plus, grilling it gives that wonderful charred flavor that everyone loves.

What I adore about this recipe is how simple it is. You can prep it ahead of time and let it marinate while you go about your day. The result? A deliciously charred steak that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, herbs, and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that infuses the meat beautifully.
• Impressive Presentation: Grilled skirt steak looks stunning on a platter, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences for a unique twist each time.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead and grill when ready, perfect for meal planning!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and approachable! For this Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch.

For the Steak

• 1 whole skirt steak (1.5-2 pounds)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup olive oil (or avocado oil)
• ¼ cup apple vinegar (or apple juice vinegar)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper

Variations

This skirt steak recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using flank steak or chicken breast instead of skirt steak for a different texture.
• Add spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give the marinade an extra kick.
• Fresh herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil if thyme and rosemary aren’t your favorites.
• Citrus twist: Add some orange or lime juice to the marinade for a refreshing citrus flavor.

How to Make Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak

Step 1: Trim the Steak

Start by prepping your skirt steak. Unroll it on a cutting board with the fattiest side facing up. It’s important to trim off any excess fat and silverskin; this helps ensure even cooking and prevents toughness. Use a sharp knife to gently cut away these sections without taking too much meat with them. Once trimmed, divide the steak into 3-4 evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Season and Marinate

Next, sprinkle kosher salt over all sides of the steak. This will enhance its natural flavor. Place the seasoned steaks into a gallon-sized resealable bag. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, and rosemary until well combined. Pour this luscious marinade over the steaks in the bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it shut; this helps the flavors penetrate better. Lay flat in the fridge for at least 2 hours (up to 12!), flipping occasionally if you can.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

When you’re ready to cook, remove the steaks from their marinade using tongs—letting excess drip off—and set them aside at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step prevents shock from cold meat hitting hot grills and ensures even cooking throughout.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Heat up your grill or skillet to high heat; it’s essential for achieving that delightful char we all crave! Just before grilling, pat each piece of steak dry with paper towels—this helps achieve that golden crust—and season generously with ground pepper. Place steaks on the grill or skillet without overcrowding them; they need space to breathe! Grill each side until beautifully charred—about 3-4 minutes per side—for medium-rare doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once grilled to perfection, transfer your steaks onto a cutting board and allow them to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period lets those juices redistribute throughout the meat so every slice is juicy and tender! When you’re ready, slice against the grain into half-inch pieces—this is key for tenderness! Serve immediately and watch everyone savor each bite! Enjoy every moment with good food around good company!

Pro Tips for Making Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak

Cooking skirt steak to perfection is all about technique and preparation, so here are some pro tips to ensure your steaks turn out delicious every time!

• Trim the Fat: Removing excess fat helps prevent flare-ups on the grill and allows for a better char, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Marinate Longer for Flavor: If you can, let your skirt steak marinate for the full 12 hours. This not only infuses deeper flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicier bite.
• Preheat Your Grill or Skillet: High heat is essential for achieving that perfect char. A properly heated grill or skillet ensures a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy.
• Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check the internal temperature as it cooks. Aim for 125-130°F for medium-rare; it’ll give you a perfectly tender cut.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the steak to rest for 10 minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute, preventing them from spilling out when you slice into it.

How to Serve Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak

Serving your charred and juicy marinated skirt steak can be as delightful as cooking it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the smoky notes of the steak, making each bite even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender make a perfect colorful accompaniment.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with steak, adding a nutritious element to your meal.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that balances well with the flavors of the skirt steak.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich meat.

Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with an unforgettable skirt steak dinner! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, flavorful meals throughout the week with minimal fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked steak to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped steaks in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the grill or in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave on low power, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.
• Enjoy your reheated steak in salads, wraps, or as a main dish!

FAQs

If you have some questions about making Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

How do I ensure my Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak is tender?

To ensure tenderness, make sure to slice the steak against the grain after resting. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites.

Can I use a different marinade for my Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even citrus juices to create a marinade that suits your taste preferences.

What is the best way to cook skirt steak?

The best way is by grilling it over high heat for a short amount of time. This method allows for that beautiful char while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

How long should I marinate skirt steak?

You can marinate skirt steak for anywhere between 2 hours and 12 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Charred and Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak as much as I do! It’s not just about a great meal; it’s about sharing delicious moments with family and friends. Whether it’s a weekend BBQ or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!