Name: Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ lb flank steak; ½ tsp cumin; 2 cloves garlic; ½ tsp kosher salt; fresh cracked pepper; For the Black Bean, Corn and Tomatoes:; 3 tbsp red onion; 1 tsp olive oil; ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice; 2 medium vine ripe tomatoes; 1 cup canned black beans; 1 cups frozen corn kernels; 2 tbsp finely minced cilantro; kosher salt and fresh pepper

Experience the perfect harmony of flavors with this grilled flank steak accompanied by a vibrant black bean, corn, and tomato salad. This dish combines savory, zesty, and fresh ingredients to create a delightful meal that’s great for any occasion.

Photos of Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Recipe

If you don't regularly stock up on ingredients like flank steak, fresh cilantro, or frozen corn kernels, make sure to add them to your shopping list. These elements are crucial for achieving the intended flavors and textures of this recipe.

Ingredients For Grilled Flank Steak With Black Beans

flank steak: A lean cut of meat perfect for grilling, known for its rich flavor.

cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the steak marinade.

garlic: Infuses the steak with a pungent, aromatic flavor.

kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the steak and salad.

fresh cracked pepper: Adds a burst of spicy, aromatic heat.

red onion: Provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor to the salad.

olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.

fresh squeezed lime juice: Brings a zesty, tangy kick to the salad.

vine ripe tomatoes: Adds freshness and juiciness to the salad.

canned black beans: A hearty, protein-rich addition to the salad.

frozen corn kernels: Adds a sweet, crunchy texture to the salad.

cilantro: Offers a fresh, citrusy note to the dish.

One reader, Carlin Irby says:

This grilled flank steak with black beans recipe is a winner! The steak is perfectly seasoned and juicy, while the black bean, corn, and tomato salad adds a refreshing touch. Easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Carlin Irby

Cooking Techniques for Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans

How to season steak: Rub the steak with crushed garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides. How to combine ingredients: Mix red onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then add tomatoes, black beans, corn, and cilantro. How to grill steak: Heat a clean, lightly greased grill on high heat and cook the steak for 6 to 8 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired doneness. How to let meat rest: Allow the grilled steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices. How to slice beef: Cut the steak into thin slices across the grain for tenderness.

How To Make Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Corn and Tomatoes

Make any meal special by preparing this flavorful grilled flank steak flavored with the fermented taste from black beans and sweetness from corns.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Rest Time: 5 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbflank steak
½tspcumin
2clovesgarlic,crushed
½tspkosher salt
fresh cracked pepper,to taste

For the Black Bean, Corn and Tomatoes:

3tbspred onion,minced
1tspolive oil
¼cupfresh squeezed lime juice
2medium vine ripe tomatoes,diced
1cupcanned black beans,drained and rinsed
1cupsfrozen corn kernels,fresh is fine
2tbspfinely minced cilantro
kosher salt and fresh pepper,to taste

Instructions

Season steak with the crushed garlic, cumin, salt and pepper and set aside 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine red onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper in a medium bowl and set aside a few minutes.
Add tomatoes, black beans, corn, cilantro and set aside.
Heat a clean lightly greased indoor or outdoor grill on high heat.
Grill steak on high heat, 6 to 8 minutes on each side or until your desired degree of doneness.
Let the meat rest about 5 minutes before slicing.
Slice the beef into thin slices across the grain, place on a platter and top with corn, black bean and tomato salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 278.59kcal
Fat: 10.79g
Saturated Fat: 4.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.68g
Carbohydrates: 16.93g
Fiber: 4.39g
Sugar: 2.37g
Protein: 28.03g
Cholesterol: 77.11mg
Sodium: 550.33mg
Calcium: 62.65mg
Potassium: 706.30mg
Iron: 3.02mg
Vitamin A: 21.86µg
Vitamin C: 10.51mg

Pro Tip for Grilling Flank Steak Perfectly

For perfectly grilled flank steak, make sure to let it rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Marinate in advance: Season the flank steak the night before and let it marinate in the fridge to save time on prep day.

Use canned beans: Opt for canned black beans instead of cooking from scratch to cut down on cooking time.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Frozen corn convenience: Use frozen corn kernels which are already prepped and ready to use.

Quick grill prep: Preheat your grill while you prepare the other ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Recipe

flank steak - Substitute with skirt steak: Skirt steak has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative for grilling.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander provides a warm, earthy flavor that complements the dish well.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic for a similar flavor, though it is less pungent.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative.
fresh cracked pepper - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper can be used if fresh cracked pepper is not available.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor and can be used in place of red onion.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for olive oil.
fresh squeezed lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.
vine ripe tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used for their sweetness and juiciness, similar to vine ripe tomatoes.
canned black beans - Substitute with canned pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and can be used as an alternative to black beans.
frozen corn kernels - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn can be used if frozen corn kernels are not available, though it may be slightly softer.
finely minced cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used for a fresh, herbaceous flavor if cilantro is not available.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used in place of kosher salt, though you may need to adjust the quantity as it is finer.

Plating Ideas for Grilled Flank Steak and Black Beans

Use a large white plate: The blank canvas of a large white plate will allow the vibrant colors of the grilled flank steak and black bean salad to stand out, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Slice the steak thinly: After letting the flank steak rest, slice it into thin, even pieces across the grain. This not only makes it easier to eat but also showcases the juicy, perfectly cooked interior.
Fan out the steak slices: Arrange the thin slices of steak in a fan shape on one side of the plate. This creates a dynamic visual effect and makes the dish look more sophisticated.
Place the salad artistically: Spoon the black bean, corn, and tomato salad on the other side of the plate, slightly overlapping the steak. This ensures that the colors and textures complement each other.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely minced cilantro over the salad and steak. This adds a pop of green and a fresh aroma that elevates the dish.
Drizzle with lime juice: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of fresh lime juice over the steak and salad. This adds a zesty brightness that ties all the flavors together.
Add a touch of olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the entire dish. This adds a subtle richness and a beautiful sheen.
Serve with a lime wedge: Place a small lime wedge on the plate for an extra touch of color and an option for additional acidity.
Use microgreens for decoration: Scatter a few microgreens around the plate for an elegant touch that adds both visual appeal and a hint of freshness.
Ensure balance and symmetry: Make sure the elements on the plate are balanced and symmetrical. This creates a harmonious and professional presentation that is pleasing to the eye.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Flank Steak

Grill: Used to cook the flank steak, providing a charred and smoky flavor.
Tongs: Essential for flipping the steak on the grill without piercing the meat and losing juices.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for seasoning the steak and slicing it after grilling.
Chef's knife: Used for mincing garlic, chopping red onions, and slicing the steak.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the red onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper, as well as mixing in the tomatoes, black beans, corn, and cilantro.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of spices, olive oil, and lime juice.
Can opener: Necessary for opening the can of black beans.
Colander: Used to drain and rinse the canned black beans.
Spatula: Helps in mixing the ingredients for the black bean, corn, and tomato salad.
Serving platter: Used to present the sliced steak topped with the black bean, corn, and tomato salad.
Meat thermometer: Optional but useful for checking the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it reaches your desired doneness.
Basting brush: Useful for lightly greasing the grill before cooking the steak.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Grilled Flank Steak

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for grilled flank steak with black beans recipe:

Let the grilled flank steak cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Store the black bean, corn, and tomato salad separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze the grilled flank steak:
- Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets remain.
- Place the wrapped steak in a freezer-safe bag or container, label it with the date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the steak overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a skillet or on the grill until warmed through.
The black bean, corn, and tomato salad is not suitable for freezing due to the high water content of the tomatoes and the potential for the beans and corn to become mushy upon thawing.
When ready to serve, let the refrigerated salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Flank Steak and Black Beans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover flank steak on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the steak in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of warmth. This method helps to retain the steak's moisture and prevent it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the flank steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat the steak in 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval to avoid overcooking. Be careful not to overheat the steak, as it can quickly become tough and rubbery in the microwave.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat your flank steak to perfection. Place the steak in a vacuum-sealed bag and submerge it in a water bath set to your desired temperature (around 120°F or 49°C for medium-rare). Allow the steak to reheat for about an hour, then remove it from the bag and quickly sear it on a hot grill or skillet to restore the exterior crust.
For the black beans, corn, and tomato salad, simply reheat the mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the ingredients are warmed through. If the salad appears dry, you can add a splash of water or olive oil to help revive it.
Another option is to transform your leftover flank steak and black bean salad into a new dish. Slice the steak into thin strips and combine it with the black bean mixture. Serve the reheated steak and beans over a bed of fresh greens, or use them as a filling for tacos or burritos. This approach allows you to enjoy your leftovers in a fresh, new way.

Interesting Trivia About Flank Steak

A random fact about this recipe is that flank steak is a lean cut of beef that benefits from marinating and quick cooking methods like grilling. This helps to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor.

Budget-Friendly: Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans

This grilled flank steak with black beans recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The flank steak provides a hearty protein source, while the black beans and corn add affordable, nutritious bulk. Fresh ingredients like tomatoes and cilantro elevate the dish without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option.

Is This Grilled Flank Steak Recipe Healthy?

This grilled flank steak with black beans recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and vegetables. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Flank steak: A lean cut of beef, providing high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
Black beans: An excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, promoting digestive health and satiety.
Corn: Provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, although it is a starchy vegetable.
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and other antioxidants that support overall health.
Garlic and onion: Offer unique compounds with potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.
Olive oil: A healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Lime juice and cilantro: Provide fresh flavors and additional nutrients, such as vitamin C and antioxidants.

While this recipe has many nutritious components, there are a few ways to make it even healthier:

Opt for a grass-fed or organic flank steak to ensure higher quality meat with a better fatty acid profile.
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, especially if you are sensitive to sodium or have high blood pressure. Instead, rely on herbs, spices, and citrus to add flavor.
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding more tomatoes, onions, or other colorful veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This will boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the meal.
Consider using a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice as a base for the black bean and corn salad, adding more complex carbohydrates and fiber to the dish.
If you're looking to reduce the overall fat content, you can trim any excess fat from the flank steak before grilling.

Editor's Opinion on This Flank Steak and Black Bean Dish

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The cumin and garlic-seasoned flank steak pairs beautifully with the vibrant black bean, corn, and tomato salad. The lime juice and cilantro add a refreshing zest, while the red onion provides a subtle bite. Grilling the steak to your preferred doneness ensures a juicy, flavorful result. Allowing the meat to rest before slicing is crucial for retaining its juices. Overall, this dish is a harmonious blend of savory and fresh elements, perfect for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Enhance Your Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Imagine the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes caramelizing to perfection, their edges crisp and golden. These wedges, seasoned with a hint of smoked paprika and a touch of sea salt, will add a delightful contrast to the savory grilled flank steak and black bean salad.

Garlic Butter Asparagus: Envision tender asparagus spears bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, their vibrant green color popping against the rich hues of the steak. The garlic and butter meld together, creating a symphony of flavors that will elevate your dining experience.

Citrus Avocado Salad: Picture a refreshing salad bursting with the zesty flavors of citrus and the creamy goodness of avocado. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this side dish will provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty flank steak and black beans.

Cheesy Polenta: Visualize a bowl of creamy polenta, enriched with a generous helping of Parmesan cheese. This comfort food side dish, with its smooth texture and cheesy flavor, will complement the robust taste of the grilled steak perfectly.

Mango Salsa: Imagine a vibrant salsa made with juicy mangoes, finely chopped red onions, and a hint of jalapeño. This sweet and spicy concoction will add a tropical twist to your meal, balancing the savory notes of the flank steak and black bean salad.

Similar Recipes to Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans

Spicy Lime Chicken With Avocado Salsa: Ignite your taste buds with this zesty chicken dish. Marinate the chicken in a blend of lime juice, chili powder, and garlic, then grill to perfection. Top with a refreshing avocado salsa made with diced avocados, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Serve with a side of black beans and corn for a complete meal.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos: Dive into these vibrant shrimp tacos that are bursting with flavor. Marinate the shrimp in a mix of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, then grill until succulent. Serve in warm tortillas with a crunchy slaw made from cabbage, red onion, and a tangy lime dressing. Don't forget the black beans and corn salsa on the side!

Southwestern Quinoa Salad: This hearty quinoa salad is packed with southwestern flavors. Combine cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Dress with a zesty lime vinaigrette and serve chilled. Perfect as a main course or a side dish for any grilled meat.

Chili Lime Grilled Vegetables: Elevate your vegetables with this smoky, spicy recipe. Toss a medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion in a chili-lime marinade, then grill until tender and slightly charred. Serve alongside black beans and corn for a delicious vegetarian option.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Transform your corn into a delightful salad inspired by Mexican street food. Grill the corn until charred, then cut the kernels off the cob. Mix with black beans, diced red onion, cilantro, and a creamy lime dressing. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese and serve as a side or a light main course.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Grilled Flank Steak

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of stuffed mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until golden and tender, creating a delightful contrast between the creamy filling and the earthy mushroom caps. These bite-sized delights are perfect for setting the stage for your grilled flank steak.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your meal with a classic shrimp cocktail. Serve chilled shrimp with a zesty cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice. The shrimp are poached to perfection, offering a tender and juicy bite that pairs wonderfully with the tangy sauce. This refreshing appetizer is a sophisticated start to your main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the richness of Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a molten center that oozes out as you cut into it, creating a delightful contrast with the soft, spongy exterior. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a refreshing slice of Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The crisp, buttery crust provides the perfect base for the zesty lemon curd, while the golden-brown meringue adds a sweet, airy finish. Serve chilled for a cool, refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled flank steak with a vibrant black bean, corn, and tomato salad. The cumin and garlic seasoning enhances the steak's natural taste, while the lime juice adds a refreshing zest to the salad. The use of fresh ingredients like vine ripe tomatoes and cilantro ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust this recipe for a balanced, nutritious, and delicious meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Want to share your own tips and tricks for making the perfect grilled flank steak with black beans? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum to join the discussion and see what others have to say about this mouthwatering dish.

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the flank steak?

You don't need to marinate it for long. Just season the steak with the crushed garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper, and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn kernels?

Absolutely! Fresh corn will work great in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it first before adding it to the salad.

What’s the best way to slice the flank steak?

Slice the beef into thin slices across the grain. This helps make the meat more tender and easier to chew.

Can I use a different type of bean instead of black beans?

Sure, you can substitute black beans with other beans like pinto or kidney beans if you prefer.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Grill the steak on high heat for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, depending on how well done you like it. Use a meat thermometer if you're unsure—145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done.