To round out your meal, flank steak pairs excellently with a variety of sides.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Nothing says comfort like a mountain of buttery, garlicky potatoes. They soak up juices well, giving you extra flavor with every bite.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrients. Season them with herbs for a delicious crunch.
Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of arugula complements the rich steak beautifully. Toss it with some olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a refreshing contrast.
Now, let’s dive into creating this culinary delight, shall we?
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Flavorful Yet Simple: The marinade includes just a few key ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the beef to shine. You won’t be overwhelmed with an array of spices to juggle.
2. Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of just minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who want something hearty without standing over the stove all night.
3. Versatile Pairing Options: Whether with sides or on its own, this flank steak can adapt to whatever you have in your fridge.
4. Health-Conscious Ingredients: You’re not just throwing together a random assortment of sauces. The ingredients are wholesome and clean, making this a dinner that’s good for you too.
How Does It Taste?
If you’ve never tasted flank steak, you’re in for a delight. The first bite is rich and savory, with a hint of garlic and smokiness from the paprika. Each slice has a satisfying chew but is tender enough to enjoy without much effort. A well-cooked flank steak, seasoned perfectly, has a depth of flavor that keep you going back for more.
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
This recipe stands out from others in a few ways. First, quick cooking is the priority, making it perfect for a weekday meal. Many flank steak recipes opt for marinades that require hours of preparation. This method uses a quick marinade that you can whip up on the spot.
Another unique feature is the simple use of Worcestershire sauce. It adds complexity without overwhelming the natural flavor of the meat. Finally, the balance of butter and oil for cooking creates a perfect crust that seals in the juicy goodness. You won’t find that in every recipe!
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this culinary adventure:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1.5 pounds flank steak, trimmed and patted dry
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon high-smoke point oil (such as avocado or canola oil)
These ingredients come together seamlessly, resulting in a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fabulous dinner on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This mixture is where the flavor begins. Coat your flank steak in this marinade, ensuring both sides get full coverage. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Heat Your Pan
Choose a large skillet for this task. Place it over medium-high heat and add the high-smoke point oil. Wait for it to shimmer before you proceed. A hot pan is essential for that perfect sear.
Step 3: Sear the Flank Steak
Once your pan is hot enough, carefully place the flank steak into the skillet. Here’s where the magic happens. Sear it for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving it. You want a beautiful crust to develop. Flip it carefully to the other side and add the butter. Spoon the melting butter over the steak as it cooks for an additional 3-4 minutes for a medium-rare finish.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This is important. Resting helps retain the juices, so every bite is as succulent as possible.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once rested, it’s time for the final cut. Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure tenderness. Serve it alongside your chosen sides and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Helps you check for doneness without guesswork. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Let it Rest: As mentioned, resting is crucial for a juicy steak.
- Cut Against the Grain: This is the secret to tenderness. If your steak fibers run vertical, slice it horizontally.
- Consider Marinating Longer: If time allows, refrigerate for several hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming. A hot pan is your friend.
Nutrition Information
A serving of this dish, roughly 4 ounces of flank steak, contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
This dish is a fantastic source of protein, making it a satisfying choice for a hearty meal.
How to Store Quick and Easy Pan Fried Flank Steak?
If you have leftovers (and that’s a big if because this steak generally disappears fast!), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently to maintain flavor and tenderness.
Sides for Quick and Easy Pan Fried Flank Steak
Consider these three fantastic sides:
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Sauté fresh green beans with garlic and a bit of butter. This dish adds a crunch that plays well with the softness of the steak.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Toss potatoes with olive oil, herbs, and salt, and roast until golden. The exterior is nice and crispy, providing a great contrast.
Classic Caesar Salad: With crunchy romaine, parmesan cheese, and a zesty dressing, it brings a nice freshness to balance the rich meat.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
If you find yourself short on certain ingredients, here are some alternatives:
- Unsalted Butter: You can use ghee or olive oil if you’re dairy-free.
- Flank Steak: Skirt steak or sirloin can work in a pinch. Each will bring slightly different flavors.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce can serve as a substitute, but adjust the salt levels accordingly.
- Smoked Paprika: Regular paprika or a dash of cayenne can offer a different yet still enjoyable taste.
Conclusion
Quick and easy pan-fried flank steak is not just a dish; it’s a ticket to effortless deliciousness. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe allows anyone—regardless of culinary skill—to impress at the dinner table. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or preparing for guests, this steak shines through.
Give it a try, play around with your preferred sides, and let your taste buds decide. This dish may just become a regular feature in your kitchen—after all, who can resist juicy, flavorful steak? Happy cooking!
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Quick and Easy Pan Fried Flank Steak – Easy Meals To Cook
Description
When you've got a delicious pan-fried flank steak sizzling away, it's only natural to think about what to serve with it. A great side can elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying. Here are three excellent pairs for flank steak that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This mixture is where the flavor begins. Coat your flank steak in this marinade, ensuring both sides get full coverage. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Heat Your Pan
-
Choose a large skillet for this task. Place it over medium-high heat and add the high-smoke point oil. Wait for it to shimmer before you proceed. A hot pan is essential for that perfect sear.
Step 3: Sear the Flank Steak
-
Once your pan is hot enough, carefully place the flank steak into the skillet. Here’s where the magic happens. Sear it for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving it. You want a beautiful crust to develop. Flip it carefully to the other side and add the butter. Spoon the melting butter over the steak as it cooks for an additional 3-4 minutes for a medium-rare finish.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
-
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This is important. Resting helps retain the juices, so every bite is as succulent as possible.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
-
Once rested, it’s time for the final cut. Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure tenderness. Serve it alongside your chosen sides and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 194kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.6g15%
- Saturated Fat 4.8g24%
- Cholesterol 75mg25%
- Sodium 266mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Helps you check for doneness without guesswork. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Let it Rest: As mentioned, resting is crucial for a juicy steak.
- Cut Against the Grain: This is the secret to tenderness. If your steak fibers run vertical, slice it horizontally.
- Consider Marinating Longer: If time allows, refrigerate for several hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming. A hot pan is your friend.
