Name: Marinated Skirt Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 600 grams skirt steak; 2 sprigs thyme (fresh); 150 milliliters extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 sprig rosemary (fresh); 1 leaf bay leaf; 2 cloves garlic (minced); to taste fine sea salt

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Marinated skirt steak is a culinary delight that brings together the robust flavors of herbs and spices with the tender juiciness of the steak. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The marinating process infuses the meat with aromatic flavors that are simply irresistible. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or cooking indoors, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing with joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marinated skirt steak is perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors and tender meat. The marination process not only enhances the steak’s natural taste but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. Plus, skirt steak is known for its rich beefy flavor, making it an excellent choice for steak lovers. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish, in tacos, or sliced over salads for a fresh twist.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of thyme, rosemary, and garlic creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor gatherings, making it a great choice for barbecue season.

The Essentials

To create your own marinated skirt steak, you will need the following ingredients:

600 grams skirt steak: This cut is known for its rich flavor and tenderness when properly marinated.
2 sprigs thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aromatic quality to the marinade.
150 milliliters extra virgin olive oil: This high-quality oil enhances the flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the marinade.
1 sprig rosemary: Fresh rosemary brings a fragrant woodsy flavor that complements the steak.
1 bay leaf: Infuses the marinade with a delicate herbal note.
2 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic provides a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
Fine sea salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors in the marinade and the steak.

Equipment & Tools

To prepare your marinated skirt steak, you will need a few essential tools:

Mixing bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
Whisk or fork: To mix the marinade thoroughly.
Resealable plastic bag or dish: To marinate the steak effectively.
Grill or stovetop pan: For cooking the steak to perfection.
Meat thermometer: To ensure your steak reaches the desired doneness.

Cook Marinated Skirt Steak Like This

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering marinated skirt steak:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, freshly ground black pepper, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and minced garlic. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Pan

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the steak.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Season both sides with fine sea salt to taste. Place the steak on the grill or pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides or in a fresh taco.

Seasonal Adaptations

This marinated skirt steak can be adapted to fit different seasons and occasions. Here are some ideas:

Summer: Serve with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob.
Fall: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes and a side of apple slaw for a hearty meal.
Winter: Serve with a warm quinoa salad and sautéed greens for a comforting dish.
Spring: Accompany with asparagus and a light citrus salad to brighten the meal.

Errors to Dodge

When preparing marinated skirt steak, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish:

Over-marinating: While marinating is essential, letting the steak sit in the marinade for too long can lead to an overly salty or mushy texture. Stick to the recommended marinating time.
Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is crucial for juicy results. Don’t skip this step!
Cooking on Low Heat: Skirt steak benefits from high heat for a good sear. Cooking on low heat can lead to a tough texture.
Not Slicing Correctly: Always slice against the grain to ensure each bite is tender. Slicing with the grain can make the steak chewy.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To ensure you get the most out of your marinated skirt steak, follow these storage tips:

Leftover marinated skirt steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked steak. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight, then gently warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes! While skirt steak is fantastic for this marinade, you can also use flank steak or hanger steak as alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different cuts may require slight adjustments.

How do I know when my skirt steak is perfectly cooked?

The best way to know is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). For medium, go for 140°F (60°C). Remember to let the meat rest before slicing!

Can I marinate the steak overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in an even richer taste. Just be cautious not to over-marinate.

What can I serve with marinated skirt steak?

This steak pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. You can also serve it in tacos with your favorite toppings for a fun twist.

Before You Go

With its bold flavors and succulent texture, marinated skirt steak is a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that’s both straightforward and delicious. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite sides and enjoy every juicy bite! Happy cooking, and may your marinated skirt steak turn out perfectly every time!