Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a culinary delight that combines the zesty brightness of orange with the rich, herbaceous notes of pesto! Our Orange Pesto Skirt Steak is not just a meal; it's an experience that will elevate your dinner to new heights. In just 25 minutes, you can impress your family and friends with this Italian-inspired dish that boasts vibrant flavors and succulent tenderness. Get ready to savor every bite and leave your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb skirt steak
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of skirt steak, 1/2 cup of pesto, 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice, and salt to taste. Make sure to have a cutting board, a sharp knife, a mixing bowl, and a grill or skillet ready for cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pesto and orange juice. Stir well until the ingredients are fully integrated, creating a flavorful marinade that will enhance the skirt steak.
- Place the skirt steak on a cutting board and season both sides generously with salt. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
- Once seasoned, pour the orange pesto marinade over the skirt steak, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 10 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour in the refrigerator will deepen the flavors.
- While the steak is marinating, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- After marinating, remove the skirt steak from the bowl and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- Place the skirt steak on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until a nice sear forms. Flip the steak and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness.
- Once cooked to your liking, remove the skirt steak from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring it remains tender and juicy.
- After resting, slice the skirt steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help to maximize tenderness.
- Serve the sliced skirt steak on a platter, drizzling any remaining juices from the cutting board over the top. Optionally, garnish with additional pesto or orange slices for a pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Orange Pesto Skirt Steak with your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes.
Tips
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Choose a high-quality skirt steak for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for well-marbled meat for optimal juiciness.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While 10 minutes is sufficient, allowing the steak to marinate for up to an hour in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more. If you can, plan ahead!
- Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Whether you're using a grill or skillet, make sure it's properly preheated to achieve a beautiful sear on the steak, which locks in the juices.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, consider using a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Slice Against the Grain: For the most tender bites, always slice the skirt steak against the grain after resting. This technique helps break down the muscle fibers, making each piece easier to chew.
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Complement your Orange Pesto Skirt Steak with fresh sides like grilled asparagus, a crisp salad, or roasted potatoes to balance the flavors and create a well-rounded meal.
- Garnish for Presentation: A drizzle of additional pesto or a few fresh orange slices can add a pop of color and extra flavor to your presentation, making the dish even more appealing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
