This Cuban-inspired flank steak with lime and fresh mango is a dinner recipe that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. It’s bold, tangy, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect centerpiece for a Mediterranean-inspired feast or a tropical twist on your weeknight meals.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe isn’t just another steak dinner. It’s a masterpiece of flavors that combine the zestiness of lime, the sweetness of fresh mango, and a hint of smoky cumin.
The marinade doubles as a dressing, giving you a seamless way to add layers of flavor without extra effort. With every bite, you’ll experience the tangy, citrusy goodness paired with the rich, caramelized taste of grilled steak.
Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. The prep takes only about 20 minutes, and the result feels like a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Tips for Perfecting This Dish
To truly elevate this dinner recipe, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime and mango are essential for achieving the vibrant flavor profile. If mangoes aren’t available, ripe orange segments make an excellent substitute.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Letting the flank steak soak in the marinade for a few hours (or overnight) ensures each slice bursts with zesty goodness.
- Grill with Precision: Cook the steak to medium-rare for the best texture and juiciness. A quick sear on high heat locks in the flavors.
Modifications to Suit Your Diet
This versatile dinner recipe can be adapted for different dietary preferences without compromising its bold flavors:
- Low-Carb Option: Replace mango with grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to reduce carbs while keeping it vibrant.
- Vegan Alternative: Swap the steak for portobello mushrooms or tofu and marinate them in the same flavorful mix for a plant-based version.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Meal Prep & Serving Ideas
This Cuban-inspired flank steak with lime and fresh mango isn’t just great for dinner—it’s also a fantastic option for meal prep. The steak can be sliced and stored in the fridge for quick salads, tacos, or sandwiches throughout the week.
Pair it with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
For a dinner gathering, serve it with sides like:
- Garlic-infused rice: A perfect base to soak up the extra marinade.
- Grilled vegetables: A mix of eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers complements the smoky, tangy steak.
- Crispy plantains: Add a Cuban flair by serving with fried or baked plantains for a sweet and savory contrast.
Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipe
This dish brings excitement to your table with its harmonious blend of tangy citrus, sweet mango, and tender steak. It’s not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s easy enough for a casual dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions.
So, fire up the grill, grab some lime and mango, and get ready to savor a dinner recipe that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. It’s your ticket to a tropical getaway—one bite at a time.
Cuban Flank Steak with Lime & Fresh Mango Recipe
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Grill or broiler
Ingredients
For the Marinade and Sauce:
- 1 lime finely grated zest and juice
- ½ teaspoon finely grated orange zest
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1½ tablespoons fresh oregano leaves packed
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Steak:
- 1 flank steak about 1½ pounds
For Serving:
- 2 ripe mangoes pitted and sliced
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Add the lime zest and juice, orange zest and juice, olive oil, garlic cloves, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend everything until smooth to create the marinade.
- Pour off 2 tablespoons of the marinade into a small container and set it aside for serving later. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and coat it thoroughly with the remaining marinade. Let it rest uncovered at room temperature while you preheat the grill or broiler. For deeper flavor, you can cover the dish and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight.
- Preheat your grill or broiler to a high setting.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off any excess bits. Cook the steak directly over high heat or under the broiler, flipping once, for about 3 minutes on each side for rare, or adjust cooking time based on your desired doneness.
- After grilling, slice the steak thinly against the grain. Plate the slices alongside the mango slices and lime wedges. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the mango for added flavor and serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute orange segments if mangoes are unavailable.
- This dish can be served hot from the grill or broiler or cold as part of a sandwich or salad the next day.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.