Prepare to electrify your dinner table with a dish that's about to become your new culinary obsession! This Seared Flank Steak with Green Lightning Sauce isn't just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. Imagine perfectly seared, tender steak slices drizzled with a vibrant, zesty green sauce that packs a punch of freshness and heat. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 jalapeño, seeded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a perfect sear.
- Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, pressing the seasoning into the meat.
- For the Green Lightning Sauce, combine fresh cilantro, lime juice, peeled garlic cloves, seeded jalapeño, and a pinch of salt in a food processor or blender. Pulse until smooth and vibrant green.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer but not smoke.
- Carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the hot pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness.
- Drizzle the Green Lightning Sauce over the sliced steak or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves if desired, and serve immediately while the steak is still warm.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your steak come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Dry Means Crispy: Pat the steak completely dry before seasoning to achieve that coveted golden-brown sear.
- High Heat is Your Friend: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan and get it smoking hot before adding the steak.
- Rest Your Meat: Letting the steak rest after cooking is crucial—it allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique breaks down muscle fibers, making your steak incredibly tender.
- Sauce Preparation: For the Green Lightning Sauce, use fresh ingredients and adjust jalapeño to your spice preference.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve the sauce on the side or drizzled over the steak for maximum flavor impact.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 271kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg
