Chili Lime Flank Steak with Avocado Salsa
Chili Lime Flank Steak with Avocado Salsa
This chili lime flank steak is marinated in a bold, zesty blend of lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and garlic, then grilled until perfectly charred on the outside and juicy pink inside. Topped with a fresh avocado salsa — it’s the ultimate summer steak recipe that takes just 25 minutes from grill to plate.
Why This Recipe Works
- Bold chili lime marinade — zesty, smoky, and slightly spicy
- Flank steak — affordable, flavorful, and perfect for grilling
- Fresh avocado salsa — cool contrast to the charred meat
- 25 minutes active time (plus marinating)
Ingredients
Chili lime marinade:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup fresh lime juice (2–3 limes)
- 3 garlic cloves minced, 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne (optional), salt, pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Avocado salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- Salt to taste
How to Make It
Step 1 — Marinate. Whisk all marinade ingredients. Pour over flank steak in a bag or dish. Marinate at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours).
Step 2 — Grill. Preheat grill to high (450°F+). Remove steak from marinade, shake off excess. Grill 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Internal temp: 130°F.
Step 3 — Rest. Tent with foil, rest 10 minutes. Temperature will rise to 135°F.
Step 4 — Slice and serve. Slice AGAINST the grain in thin strips. Top with avocado salsa.
Avocado Salsa
Mix all salsa ingredients gently. Season with salt. Make right before serving — avocado browns quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different steak cut?
Skirt steak is the best substitute. Sirloin works too. Avoid thick cuts like ribeye — this marinade works best on thin, flat cuts.
Can I cook this indoors?
Yes — cast iron skillet over high heat, 4 minutes per side. Or broil on the top rack 4–5 minutes per side.
How long to marinate?
Minimum 30 minutes. Maximum 8 hours. Don’t exceed 8 — the lime acid starts breaking down the meat fibers and makes it mushy.
Why must I slice against the grain?
Flank steak has long, visible muscle fibers. Cutting against (perpendicular to) the grain shortens them, making each bite tender instead of chewy.
Can I make this for fajitas?
Absolutely — slice thin, serve with warm tortillas, grilled peppers/onions, sour cream, and guacamole.
How spicy is this?
Mild to medium with chili powder alone. Add cayenne for more kick or use a chipotle chili powder for smoky heat.
Can I freeze marinated steak?
Yes — freeze in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, grill as directed.
What sides go with chili lime steak?
Mexican street corn, cilantro lime rice, black bean salad, grilled vegetables, or corn tortillas for tacos.
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Create the Best Chili Lime Flank Steak with Avocado Salsa!
Delight your senses with this flavorful chili lime flank steak topped with a refreshing avocado salsa. A perfect blend of bold spices and fresh ingredients that promise a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, seeded and diced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Optional: jalapeño pepper
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
- Grill the flank steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer according to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the steak is resting, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocados, red onion, tomato, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and additional lime juice to taste.
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and serve with the avocado salsa on top. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and sliced jalapeño if desired.
