Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

This Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of smoky, perfectly seared flank steak and fresh, zesty salsa brings bold flavors to the table. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of preparation, this dish comes together rapidly, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The smoky steak paired with spicy roasted tomato-cilantro salsa delivers a delightful flavor that excites the palate.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe adapts well to various settings and tastes.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the flank steak and vitamins from the fresh salsa ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything ready will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or skillet
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or skillet: Essential for achieving that perfect sear on your flank steak, creating a delicious crust while keeping the meat juicy.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting the tomatoes evenly, ensuring they turn blistered and flavorful without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients for the salsa, allowing you to toss everything together easily.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Flank Steak

• 2 lbs flank steak
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt, divided

For the Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

• 2 pints grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ⅔ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 small jalapeño peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
• 4 tsp finely chopped garlic
• Juice of 1 lime for brightness
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or chipotle powder (rub on steak)
• 1 small red onion, finely diced (add to salsa)

For Toppings (Optional)

• Crumbled cotija cheese or sliced avocado

How to Make Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dinner that everyone will love.

Step 1: Season the Steak

Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with ½ tsp of salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if desired. Allow it to sit at room temperature while you prepare the salsa.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

In a mixing bowl, combine halved grape tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and chopped garlic. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in an oven preheated to 425°F for about 10–12 minutes until they are blistered and juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Salsa

Once the tomatoes are roasted, add them to another mixing bowl along with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced red onion (if using), lime juice, and remaining olive oil. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

Heat your grill pan or skillet over high heat. Sear the flank steak for about 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness (cook longer if you prefer it more done). After searing, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Serve It Up

To serve, place slices of flank steak on plates and top generously with tomato-cilantro salsa. If desired, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese or add slices of avocado for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

Serving seared flank steak with roasted tomato-cilantro salsa can elevate your dining experience. The vibrant flavors of the salsa complement the smoky, juicy steak perfectly. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Salad: Serve the steak over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and crunchy element.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Pair it with cilantro lime rice for a zesty, flavorful base that complements the salsa.

Tacos or Wraps

• Flank Steak Tacos: Use soft tortillas to create delicious tacos filled with sliced steak and topped with the salsa.
• Steak Wraps: Roll the steak and salsa in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap option.

On a Platter

• Family Style Serving: Present the sliced steak on a large platter, drizzled with salsa, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Charcuterie Board: Incorporate the steak slices into a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers for a fun appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

Perfecting your seared flank steak requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to achieve restaurant-quality results.

• Bold seasoning: Generously season your steak with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
• High heat: Ensure your grill pan or skillet is hot enough before searing; this creates a beautiful crust.
• Resting time: Allow the cooked steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.
• Slice against the grain: To ensure tenderness, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
• Adjust doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if you’re unsure—medium-rare is typically around 130°F (54°C).
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder based on your taste preference.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

Side dishes can enhance your meal by adding complementary flavors and textures. Here are some great options that pair nicely with seared flank steak.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender add color and flavor.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and herbs offers a light and nutritious side.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs provide a hearty accompaniment.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with olive oil and lime adds sweetness and crunch that balances the savory flavors of the dish.
5. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed black bean salad tossed with lime and cilantro complements the flavors beautifully.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This flavorful corn dish loaded with cheese, chili powder, and lime is a crowd-pleaser alongside steak.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that can be seasoned similarly to rice but provides additional nutrients and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and even the best recipes can suffer from common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind when preparing your Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa.

• Ignoring the resting time: Not allowing the steak to rest after cooking leads to loss of juices. Always let your steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much steak on the grill or skillet can lower the temperature. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Ensure you season both sides of the steak well before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the quality of ingredients: Using low-quality tomatoes or cilantro can affect the salsa’s taste. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain makes steak tough to chew. Always slice against the grain to ensure tender bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover seared flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

• Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• The steak can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place steak on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil, and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa.

What kind of meat is best for this recipe?

Flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and tenderness when cooked correctly. You can also use skirt steak as an alternative.

Can I use other herbs in the salsa?

Absolutely! While cilantro adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with parsley or basil if you prefer different tastes.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Using a meat thermometer helps; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on your doneness preference.

Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time?

Yes! The salsa can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

How can I customize my salsa?

You can add diced mango or pineapple for sweetness or adjust spice levels by including more jalapeños or adding chili powder.

Final Thoughts

This Seared Flank Steak with Roasted Tomato-Cilantro Salsa is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize your salsa with different fruits or herbs to make it your own!