This Easy Steak Marinade comes together in minutes and elevates a budget-friendly steak from good to amazing! Perfect for grilling season, this marinade infuses rich flavors into your steaks, making it suitable for family dinners, barbecues with friends, or any special occasion. Its combination of tangy lemon and savory herbs creates a unique taste that will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This marinade can be whipped up in just a few minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
- Flavorful Boost: The blend of ingredients guarantees a mouthwatering taste that enhances any cut of steak.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for various types of steaks, this marinade works well with chicken or pork too!
- Budget-Friendly: Transform inexpensive cuts into gourmet meals without breaking the bank.
- Perfect for Grilling: Designed specifically for grilling, ensuring juicy and perfectly cooked steaks every time.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the process easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining all the marinade ingredients effectively.
- Whisk: Ensures that all flavors are well blended together for better marination.
- Grill or grill pan: These provide the high heat necessary to achieve those perfect grill marks and caramelization on your steaks.
- Meat thermometer: Helps you cook your steak to the perfect doneness without guessing.
Ingredients
This easy steak marinade comes together in minutes and transforms a budget-friendly steak from good to amazing!
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 large lemons
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons dried basil
- 1-1/2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1-1/2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- Coarse salt (optional)
- Steaks (of your choice)
- Canola oil (for grill grates)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Easy Steak Marinade
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, zest and juice the lemons to get 1/2 teaspoon of zest and 1/4 cup of juice. Add the following ingredients:
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
* 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
* 3 tablespoons dried basil
* 1 tablespoon minced garlic
* 1-1/2 tablespoons garlic powder
* 1-1/2 tablespoons dried parsley
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
Whisk until ingredients are combined and incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Steaks
Pour the marinade over your steaks (the pictures show a NY Strip Steak; read the post for the “best grilling steaks”). Cover or seal in a bag and place it in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Avoid marinating too long as acidity can start to cook the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
About 20 minutes before grilling, remove steaks from the fridge. Let them sit covered at room temperature while you heat your grill to high heat. Clean it with a wire brush once hot.
Step 4: Prepare Grill Grates
Roll up a few paper towels soaked in canola oil. Using tongs, rub this along your grill grates generously to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Season and Cook
Remove steaks from marinade. Optionally sprinkle coarse salt over them. Place steaks on grill; cook about 4–5 minutes per side, rotating 90 degrees halfway through for diamond grill marks.
Step 6: Check Doneness
Flip steaks using tongs and continue grilling for an additional 3–5 minutes for medium-rare (aiming for an internal temperature of 135°F).
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once cooked to desired doneness, remove from grill and place on a plate or cutting board. Tent loosely with foil for about 5–10 minutes to let juices redistribute.
Enjoy your juicy grilled steaks with friends and family!
How to Serve Easy Steak Marinade
Serving your steak marinated with this easy steak marinade can elevate your dining experience. There are various ways to enjoy it, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just having a cozy meal at home.
On a Platter
- Serve the steaks sliced on a large platter for easy sharing. Garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
In Tacos
- Shred the grilled steak and use it as a filling for tacos. Top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a fresh twist.
With Salad
- Slice the steak and place it atop a mixed greens salad. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a healthy meal.
As Sandwiches
- Create delicious sandwiches using sliced steak, crusty bread, and toppings like arugula and aioli for extra flavor.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Pair the grilled steak with fluffy rice or quinoa. Add veggies to the grain bowl to make it more nutritious.
How to Perfect Easy Steak Marinade
To get the most out of your easy steak marinade, follow these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor better than dried alternatives.
- Marinate properly: Allow the steaks to marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour but no longer than 6 hours.
- Temperature matters: Let marinated steaks come to room temperature before grilling; this helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat your grill: A hot grill creates nice sear marks and locks in juices.
- Rest after cooking: Tent your cooked steaks with foil for 5–10 minutes before cutting to allow juices to redistribute.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the marinade based on your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Steak Marinade
To complement your easy steak marinade, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with grilled steak.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic add comfort alongside your flavorful steak.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus cooked on the grill offers a fresh crunch that balances the meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled and slathered with butter for a classic summer side.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to rich flavors of steak.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides color and nutrition.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds tanginess that complements the savory notes of marinated steak.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans are hearty and satisfying next to grilled meat.
- French Fries: Classic crispy fries are always a hit; try seasoning them with garlic powder for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your easy steak marinade works perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.
- Using low-quality steaks: Opt for a good cut of meat. Budget-friendly steaks can still taste great with the right marinade, but poor quality will lead to disappointing results.
- Marinating for too long: Do not exceed 6 hours in the marinade. Over-marinating can make the meat mushy due to the acidity. Stick to the recommended time for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping salt: If you use regular soy sauce, it’s easy to overlook adding salt. Be mindful that low-sodium options might need extra seasoning. Taste your marinade before applying it.
- Grilling on a dirty grill: Cleaning your grill is essential. A dirty grill can affect flavor and cooking efficiency. Always clean your grates before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Ignoring resting time: Don’t rush cutting into your steaks right after grilling. Let them rest for 5–10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover steak in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep the marinade separately if you want to use it again.
Freezing Easy Steak Marinade
- Freeze steak in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Easy Steak Marinade
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover steak with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; cover loosely and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
- Stovetop: Place steak in a skillet over low heat; cover and heat gently until warmed, avoiding overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate my steak with this easy steak marinade?
You should marinate your steak for up to 6 hours. This allows enough time for flavors to penetrate without over-tenderizing the meat.
Can I use this easy steak marinade on other meats?
Yes! This easy steak marinade works well with chicken, pork, or even vegetables. Just adjust marinating times accordingly based on the protein or vegetable used.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar or soy sauce mixed with a little brown sugar for a similar flavor profile.
Is this easy steak marinade suitable for grilling?
Absolutely! This easy steak marinade is perfect for grilling. It enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat while adding a delicious char when cooked over high heat.
Can I make this easy steak marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this easy steak marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week before using it on your steaks.
Final Thoughts
This easy steak marinade is not only simple but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy flavorful steaks any night of the week. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting ingredients based on personal taste. Give this recipe a try, and elevate your next grilling experience!
Easy Steak Marinade
Elevate your grilling game with this Easy Steak Marinade, a simple yet flavorful blend that transforms budget-friendly cuts into gourmet delights. Perfect for any occasion, this marinade combines zesty lemon and savory herbs to infuse rich flavors into your steaks. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for last-minute meals, family dinners, or barbecues with friends. Marinate your steak for a few hours, fire up the grill, and enjoy perfectly juicy steaks that will impress everyone at the table.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Coarse salt (optional)
- Steaks of your choice
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and optional salt until well combined.
- Pour the marinade over your steaks in a resealable bag or a covered dish. Refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
- Preheat your grill to high heat about 20 minutes before grilling. Clean the grates with a wire brush.
- Remove steaks from marinade and season with salt if desired. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness.
- Allow cooked steaks to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg