Flank steak is a flavorful and lean cut of beef that can be prepared in a variety of ways. One delicious option is to make flank steak florentine, an Italian-inspired dish that combines tender steak with the flavors of Florence.

To make flank steak florentine, you will need a few key ingredients, including a flank steak, garlic, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The first step is to marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This will help to infuse the meat with flavor and make it tender. While the steak is marinating, you can prepare the spinach by sautéing it with garlic and olive oil.

Once the steak has marinated, it is time to cook it. You can either grill the steak for a smoky flavor or cook it in a hot skillet for a quick and delicious meal. Make sure to cook the steak to your desired level of doneness, whether that is rare, medium-rare, or well done. Let the steak rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing it against the grain.

To serve flank steak florentine, place a bed of sautéed spinach on a plate and top it with slices of the cooked steak. Sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs well with a glass of red wine and a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Preparing the Flank Steak

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Before you start cooking the flank steak florentine, it’s important to properly prepare the meat. This will ensure that it is tender and delicious.

Here are the steps to prepare the flank steak:

Step Description
1 Start by marinating the steak. You can use a marinade of your choice, but a combination of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs works well for this recipe. Place the steak in a shallow dish and cover it with the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2 Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade.
3 Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4 Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
5 Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
6 Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
7 After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew.

Now that the flank steak is prepared, it’s ready to be incorporated into the delicious florentine recipe.

Choosing the Right Cut

When it comes to cooking flank steak florentine, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is particularly popular in Italian cuisine, where it is often used in dishes like the famous Florentine steak.

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When selecting flank steak for this recipe, look for a cut that is bright red in color with minimal fat marbling. The meat should feel firm to the touch and have a smooth surface. It’s also important to choose a flank steak that is of consistent thickness, as this will ensure even cooking.

If you can’t find flank steak, there are a few alternatives you can consider. Skirt steak, hanger steak, or flat iron steak can all be substituted for flank steak in this recipe. These cuts have a similar texture and flavor, making them suitable replacements.

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Whichever cut of beef you choose, be sure to trim away any excess fat or silver skin before cooking. This will help prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure a more tender and enjoyable eating experience.

Marinating the Meat

Marinating the flank steak is an essential step to infuse it with incredible flavor and tenderness. Here is a simple marinade recipe to use:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
  3. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  5. Occasionally flip the steak or spoon the marinade over it to ensure even distribution of flavors.

The longer the steak marinates, the more intense the flavor will be. It’s best to marinate it for at least a couple of hours, but if you have the time, overnight marination is highly recommended.

Cooking the Flank Steak

Once you have marinated the flank steak, it’s time to cook it. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan or broil the steak in the oven.

2. Remove the flank steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the steak sear nicely.

3. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add any other spices or seasonings that you like.

4. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer if you prefer it more well done. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your grill.

5. Once the steak reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy and tender steak.

6. After the steak has rested, slice it against the grain into thin strips. This helps to ensure that each bite is tender.

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7. Serve the flank steak Florentine with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Note: You can also cook the flank steak in a skillet on the stovetop if you prefer. Simply heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the steak for the same amount of time per side as you would on the grill.

Grilling the Meat

Before grilling the flank steak, you should ensure that the grill is clean and preheated to medium-high heat. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Marinating the Meat

Prior to grilling, it’s recommended to marinate the flank steak to enhance its flavor and tenderness. You can prepare a simple marinade using olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices. Place the meat in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling the Flank Steak

Once the meat has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help to ensure even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess marinade.

Place the flank steak on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).

While grilling, try to avoid constantly flipping the steak as this can prevent it from developing a nice charred crust. Instead, flip it only once and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Once the steak has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy steak.

After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain, which helps to maximize tenderness. Use a sharp knife to cut thin slices, and serve it alongside your favorite sides or in a delicious Florentine-inspired dish.

Searing the Steak on a Pan

Before searing the steak, it is important to bring it to room temperature. This allows for more even cooking and ensures that the center is not raw when the outside is cooked.

1. Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature.

2. While the steak is coming to room temperature, preheat a pan over medium-high heat. A cast-iron skillet works best for searing as it retains and distributes heat evenly.

3. Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil to coat the surface. Vegetable or canola oil works well for searing due to their high smoke points.

4. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the steak to brown nicely and develop a flavorful crust.

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5. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add any additional seasonings or spices of your choice.

6. Carefully place the flank steak into the hot pan, making sure it lays flat. Be cautious as the oil may splatter.

7. Allow the steak to cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.

8. Using tongs, carefully flip the steak to the other side and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. The steak should develop a caramelized crust on both sides.

9. Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board.

10. Allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Now that the flank steak has been seared to perfection, it is ready to be served as the centerpiece of a delicious Florentine-inspired meal.

FAQ

What is flank steak Florentine?

Flank steak Florentine is a delicious Italian dish made with thinly sliced flank steak, marinated in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices, and then grilled to perfection. The steak is typically served with a side of sautéed spinach or other green vegetables.

How do I choose a good flank steak for this recipe?

When selecting a flank steak for this recipe, look for one that is bright red in color and has minimal fat marbling. The meat should feel firm to the touch and have a fresh, slightly metallic smell. Avoid any steak that has a grayish color or a strong odor.

What are some good marinade options for flank steak Florentine?

There are many delicious marinade options for flank steak Florentine. Some popular choices include a mixture of olive oil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and a blend of Italian herbs and spices. You can also use a combination of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic for an Asian-inspired flavor.

How long should I marinate the flank steak?

The recommended marinating time for flank steak Florentine is at least 4 hours, but you can marinate it overnight for even more flavor. Make sure to turn the steak occasionally to ensure that it is evenly coated in the marinade.

Can I cook flank steak Florentine in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can cook flank steak Florentine in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated steak on a baking sheet. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the desired level of doneness is reached. Just make sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

What is flank steak florentine?

Flank steak florentine is a dish made with flank steak, which is a lean and flavorful cut of beef, cooked in the style of Florence, Italy. It is typically seasoned with herbs and spices, then grilled or broiled to perfection.