Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

One of my favorite ways to serve steak is with Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad! This dish is perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or even a special occasion. The combination of juicy steak and fresh tomato salad creates a delightful balance that tantalizes your taste buds. Make it ahead of time and simply grill the steak when you’re ready, making it an easy yet impressive meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious meal ready in under two hours.
• Flavorful Marinade: The marinade infuses the steak with rich flavors, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
• Fresh Ingredients: The vibrant tomato salad adds freshness, making it a healthy side that complements the steak beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests; this dish fits any occasion.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to the salad for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large non-reactive bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the skirt steak.
• Large non-reactive bowl: Ideal for marinating without affecting the flavor of your ingredients.
• Cutting board & Knife: Necessary for slicing the cooked steak and preparing your salad ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade

• 2 pounds hanger or skirt steak
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons agave nectar or honey

For the Tomato Salad

• 1-2 pints cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 handful of fresh arugula or upland cress
• 1/3 red onion (thinly sliced)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a large non-reactive bowl. Add the steak, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that you’ll get a good sear on your skirt steak.

Step 3: Season and Grill the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Place it on the hot grill and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side. Turn it 90 degrees halfway through cooking to create crisscross grill marks.

Step 4: Rest the Steak

Once cooked to your desired doneness (medium/medium rare), remove the steak from the grill. Transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Prepare Tomato Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss together halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, arugula, and thinly sliced red onions until evenly combined.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the rested skirt steak against the grain into thin strips. Top with tomato salad and garnish with finely chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Serve with Fresh Bread

• Rustic Baguette – Pair this steak and salad with slices of warm, crusty baguette for a satisfying addition.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of the steak and adds a crispy texture.

Garnish with Herbs

• Fresh Basil – Sprinkling fresh basil on top adds a burst of flavor and enhances the Mediterranean feel.
• Chopped Parsley – A handful of chopped parsley provides color and freshness, brightening up the plate.

Add a Creamy Element

• Feta Cheese Crumbles – Adding feta cheese offers a salty, creamy contrast to the vibrant tomato salad.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices can add richness and balance the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

For the best results when preparing Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the steak to marinate for 12-24 hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use High Heat – Cooking on high heat helps achieve those perfect grill marks while keeping the inside juicy.
• Rest Before Slicing – Letting the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing allows juices to redistribute for more succulent meat.
• Cut Against the Grain – Slicing against the grain ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
• Season Generously – Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate all the flavors in this dish.
• Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to add different toppings like salsa or chimichurri for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

A well-rounded meal is all about complementing flavors. Here are some perfect side dishes to serve alongside your Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad.

1. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized pairs perfectly with the steak’s richness.
2. Quinoa Salad – This light side brings protein and fiber, along with a nutty flavor that balances well with the meal.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall dining experience.
4. Grilled Asparagus – Tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender, asparagus adds a fresh element that complements the steak.
5. Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that satisfies any comfort food cravings.
6. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes an aromatic side that works beautifully with Mediterranean dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the steak can result in a lack of flavor. Always marinate for at least 2 hours for the best taste.
• Cooking on High Heat Only: Grilling at too high a temperature can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Aim for medium-high heat and monitor your cooking time closely.
• Cutting Against the Grain Incorrectly: Slicing the steak with the grain can make it tough. Always cut against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting the steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for about 10 minutes for maximum juiciness.
• Forgetting Seasoning: Neglecting to season your steak properly may lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled skirt steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• The tomato salad should be kept separately and consumed within 2 days for freshness.

Freezing Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

• You can freeze grilled skirt steak for up to 3 months.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or container.

Reheating Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and reheat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil, then warm the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Cut of Meat is Best for Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad?

The best cuts are hanger or skirt steak due to their rich flavor and tenderness when properly cooked.

Can I Make Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can marinate the steak a day ahead and prepare the tomato salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

How Should I Serve Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad?

Slice the steak against the grain and top it with tomato salad right before serving for a beautiful presentation.

What Are Some Variations of Grilled Skirt Steak?

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or herbs in your salad, or experimenting with various marinades.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Skirt Steak with Tomato Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or different dressings. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, so don’t hesitate to give it a try! Enjoy this flavorful dish that marries perfectly grilled meat with refreshing salad!