When it comes to grilling meat, nothing quite hits the spot like a beautifully marinated skirt steak. This cut of beef is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, making it a favorite among steak lovers. The key to a perfect marinated skirt steak lies in a flavorful marinade that penetrates the meat, enhancing its natural taste. Today, we’ll walk you through a simple yet delicious marinade that will elevate your steak game and leave your guests asking for seconds.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of marinated skirt steak is in its ability to soak up flavor while remaining juicy and tender. The combination of extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary creates a robust marinade that infuses the meat with delightful notes. Adding garlic and a touch of black pepper brings an aromatic depth that complements the beef beautifully. The acid from the olive oil helps to break down the meat fibers, resulting in a steak that is not only flavorful but also incredibly tender.

Shopping List

600 grams skirt steak (approximately 200 grams per steak)
2 sprigs fresh thyme
150 milliliters extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 sprig fresh rosemary
1 bay leaf
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fine sea salt to taste

Toolbox for This Recipe

Mixing bowl: For combining your marinade ingredients.
Whisk: To blend the marinade thoroughly.
Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish: For marinating the steak.
Grill or grill pan: For cooking the skirt steak to perfection.
Meat thermometer: To ensure your steak reaches the desired doneness.

Directions: Marinated Skirt Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, black pepper, bay leaf, and the 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 completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s nice and hot to achieve a beautiful sear on your steak.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Season both sides with fine sea salt to taste. Place the steak on the hot grill 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, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice against the grain, serve, and enjoy!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

Pair with a fresh spring salad topped with goat cheese and walnuts for a light spring meal.
Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty fall dinner.
Add to tacos with fresh salsa and avocado for a summer treat.
Top with chimichurri sauce for an extra burst of flavor any time of year.

Cook’s Commentary

The marinade for this skirt steak is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. This dish is perfect for gatherings, BBQs, or even a cozy family dinner. The key is not to rush the marinating process—allowing the steak to soak up those flavors will make a world of difference!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Leftover marinated skirt steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s fantastic sliced cold on salads or reheated quickly in a skillet for a delicious stir-fry. For meal prep, consider marinating several steaks at once and freezing them for later use. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking!

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different cut of meat for this marinade?

Absolutely! While skirt steak is ideal for this marinade, you can also use flank steak, sirloin, or even chicken for a delicious variation.

How long can I marinate the steak?

For best results, marinate the steak for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavor it will absorb, but be cautious not to go overboard, as the texture can become mushy.

What should I serve with marinated skirt steak?

Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even roasted potatoes make excellent sides. You can also serve it in tacos or on a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Can I grill this steak indoors?

Yes! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Just make sure to ventilate your kitchen well, as it can get smoky!

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Final Thoughts

Marinated skirt steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. With its bold flavors and tender texture, this recipe is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner, this dish will undoubtedly stand out. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process of making a meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!