If you're like me, always on the hunt for easy and delicious recipes that fit into a low-carb and keto lifestyle, you'll love this. I've got a super simple 3 Ingredient Steak Marinade that's a game-changer. It's all about keeping things straightforward yet flavorsome. With just a touch of patience for the marinade to work its magic, you've got a foolproof way to jazz up your steak nights. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a fantastic meal without fuss or complexity.
This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free and Paleo
Table of Contents
8 Reasons to Love This Recipe
Here’s why this 3 ingredient steak marinade is a game-changer for your kitchen:
- Simple and quick with only 3 main ingredients.
- Packed full of rich, delicious flavors that steak loves.
- An easy to make marinade that makes meat taste great.
- Works well with any cut of steak.
- Perfectly low-carb! Use it with abandon.
- Can be used with other proteins like chicken, pork, or lamb.
- Perfect for grilling because it enhances the flavor of the steak.
- Delightfully fresh flavor.
Inspiration For This 3 Ingredient Steak Marinade
For the last 25 years, grilling has been a passion for me. However, when it came to marinades, I'll be honest: they never really made it to my grill. It wasn't that I didn't like them; it was more about not having enough time to do them justice. So, I became the guy who mastered the art of dry rubs and using simple aromatics to bring out the best in my beef.
Recently, my family asked for something different, so I decided to look at the marinade. With my love for simplicity in cooking, I decided not to stray too far from what I know best. That's how this "3 Ingredient Steak Marinade" was born. I stuck to the basics — just three ingredients that I knew would complement the steak without overpowering it.
The result? The whole family was impressed, and that's saying something. It turns out you don't need 20 ingredients to make a great marinade; just a few well-chosen ones will do the trick.
And I know there are actually 5 ingredients, but I'm not counting salt and pepper.
Is This Easy Steak Marinade Low-Carb Or Keto?
When I create any recipe, including this Easy Steak Marinade, I am keenly aware to make it fit into the low-carb and keto-friendly lifestyle. This recipe has only 2 g net carbs per serving, which makes it ideal for low-carb followers. Now let's explore the ingredients and their contribution in this scenario.
- Olive oil, the primary ingredient, is a keto favorite, rich in healthy fats and absolutely zero carbs.
- Then there's garlic - while it contains some carbs, the quantity used here is so small that it barely makes a dent, yet it brings a robust flavor that's hard to miss.
- Rosemary, whether fresh or dried, is an ideal herb for low-carb diets, adding a punch of flavor without contributing any significant carbs.
So, to answer this question: yes, this marinade is both low-carb and keto-friendly. This is a great example of how we can enjoy big flavors in our meals while keeping our carb count in check. Plus, if you pair a zero-carb food like chicken, pork, or beef with this marinade, the overall net carbs will be less than 1 g per serving.
Should You Marinade Steak?
Deciding whether to marinate your steak is a bit like choosing the right seasoning — it all boils down to personal preference and the desired outcome. But, to help make an informed decision, let’s explore the pros and cons of marinating steaks.
Pros:
- Flavor enhancement: The primary benefit of a marinade is the depth and variety of flavors it can infuse into the steak. Ingredients like herbs, spices, and even mild acids can introduce subtle or bold tastes that complement the natural flavor of the meat.
- Tenderness: Certain components of a marinade, particularly those with enzymatic properties like pineapple or ginger, can help tenderize the steak, making it more succulent and enjoyable to eat.
Cons:
- Time consumption: Properly marinating a steak isn’t fast. It requires planning and patience, as a good marinade often needs several hours to impart its flavors effectively to the steak.
- Risk of overpowering: There's a fine line between a well-marinated steak and one in which the marinade overwhelms the meat's natural flavor. This is particularly true for marinades with strong acids or bold spices.
- Acidic reactions: Speaking of acids, marinades with high acidic content (like those with vinegar or citrus juices) can start to 'cook' the surface of the steak if left for too long. This can lead to a change in texture, sometimes making the outer layer of the steak a bit mushy. Nobody wants a mushy steak.
Balancing act:
The key to a good marinade is to strike a balance. It should enhance, not mask, the steak’s natural flavor. It should add to the meat’s tenderness without altering its fundamental texture. My 3 ingredient steak marinade, for example, is designed to be subtle yet flavorful, adding tenderness without the risks of overpowering or pre-cooking the steak.
Marinating time:
For most steaks, a marinating time of 30 minutes to 2 hours is sufficient. However, tougher cuts can benefit from longer marination, but it’s rarely necessary to go beyond 8 hours. Remember, the goal is to complement the steak’s flavor, not compete with it.
Simple Steak Marinade
Simple cooking brings out the most satisfying flavors. That's precisely why I made the 3 ingredient steak marinade. It stands out for its ability to enhance the steak's natural flavors without overpowering them, using minimal yet fresh ingredients. Here's why this marinade is a hit:
Flavors in harmony: Olive oil, garlic, and rosemary come together to accentuate the beef's savory taste, ensuring the steak remains the star. These ingredients complement rather than compete with the steak’s flavor.
Freshness counts: The key to this marinade's success is its reliance on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh rosemary and garlic bring a vibrancy that enlivens the steak, providing a light yet flavorful addition.
Easy and versatile: This recipe is as approachable as it is versatile. Perfect for any cooking skill level, it's not just great for steaks but also adaptable for other meats like chicken or pork.
Just because it is a simple steak marinade doesn't mean that it doesn't bring home the flavor.
3 Ingredient Steak Marinade Ingredient List
Below is the list of ingredients you'll need to make the steak marinade recipe:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
INGREDIENT NOTE: You will need to add in a large 2-3lb flank steak. This recipe and nutritional information contains ingredients just for the marinade for steak!
Ingredient Substitutions
Here are some simple alternatives you can use to keep the flavors just as delightful for this easy steak marinade:
- Olive oil: Use avocado oil, deodorized coconut oil, or MCT oil.
- Garlic: Use 4-6 cloves of my roasted garlic for a nice depth of flavor.
- Rosemary: Use chives, green onion, or even sage in place of the rosemary.
Additional Ingredients
Looking to elevate the flavors even more for this simple steak marinade? Here are some tasty additions that pair perfectly with the main ingredients:
- Fresh herbs: Load up with fresh thyme, lemongrass, parsley, sage, chives, or green onions.
- Citrus: Add a tablespoon or two of fresh lemon or lime juice, or even fresh orange juice for red meat.
- Spices: Spice things up with cumin, dried mustard powder, granulated garlic, onion powder, or chili powder.
- Mustard: Add about a tablespoon of Dijon, spicy brown, or yellow mustard for a subtle flavor boost.
- Gluten-free soy sauce: If not gluten-free, just soy sauce; omit the salt and add 2 teaspoons of soy sauce.
Note: These ingredients are optional, and are not included in the main recipe for 3 ingredient steak marinade.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Steak Marinade: Complete Cooking Guide
Start by gathering your ingredients. In a small bowl, combine these ingredients and whisk them together until they're well blended. The olive oil forms the base of the marinade, providing moisture and helping the flavors of garlic and rosemary to infuse into the steak. The minced garlic adds a subtle pungency, while the rosemary brings a fragrant, earthy note to the mix.
Once your marinade is ready, place your flank steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring that every part of the meat is coated. For the best flavor penetration, gently rub the marinade into the steak. This little bit of extra attention ensures that the flavors really start to penetrate the meat.
Now, let your steak marinate in the refrigerator. For the best results, you should give it at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours can really enhance the flavors.
When it's time to cook, take the steak out of the fridge about 20 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature. This step helps in cooking the steak more evenly. Grill your marinated steak over medium-high heat to your preferred level of doneness, then let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
This easy marinade is a perfect way to add some extra flavor to your steak without overwhelming its natural taste. It's an effortless recipe that delivers delicious results every time.
Cooking Method
- Grilling
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients to make 3 ingredient steak marinade.
- Mince garlic.
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and rosemary. Mix well.
- Marinate the steak: Place the flank steak in a dish or a plastic bag. Coat evenly with the marinade, rubbing it gently into the meat.
- Rest: Allow the steak to marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Prepare for grilling: Take the steak out of the fridge 20 minutes before grilling.
- Grill: Cook the steak over medium-high heat to your liking... this is a personal preference and also depends on a number of factors discussed in the notes.
- Serve: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after taking off the grill, then slice against the grain and serve.
Steps 1 & 2: Chop the fresh rosemary and garlic. Add to the steak in a sealable bag.
Step 3 & 4: Add in the olive oil, salt and pepper. No need for a bowl, just right in the bag.
Step 5&6: Press the marinade into the steak through the bag. Allow to rest and then prepare to grill!
Step 7: Grill the steak to perfection. View the grilling notes on the recipe card for more tips.
💡 My Pro Tip
The cooking time for this keto steak marinade varies based on several factors that can be challenging to specify precisely. These factors include the thickness of the meat, the time it takes for the steak to reach room temperature, the heat level, and intensity of the grill, among others. The most reliable method to determine doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Here are the recommended cooking temperatures: Rare (120-130°F or 49-54°C), medium (135-145°F or 57-63°C), well-done (155-165°F or 68-74°C).
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
- Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Use minced garlic from a jar to save time on peeling, chopping, and cleaning.
- Marinate the steak overnight for enhanced flavor.
This Simple Grilled Steak Recipe Loves to Be Paired With:
- Carrot Mash With Ginger & Garlic: A lively blend of sweet carrots and zesty ginger, this mash is a colorful, flavorful complement the steak taste. This recipe is not considered keto-friendly or low-carb.
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Step up your steak game with the creamy richness of these garlic-infused mashed potatoes, a classic pairing for a hearty steak. This recipe is not low-carb.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, slightly sweet, and utterly delightful, these sweet potato fries add a fun twist to any steak dinner.
- Creamy Mashed Potato Recipe: Nothing says comfort like creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, making for a timeless steak side dish. This recipe is not low-carb.
- Baked Brussels Sprouts Gratin: A creamy, cheesy gratin that transforms Brussels sprouts into a decadent treat, perfect alongside your grilled steak.
- The Ultimate Iceberg Wedge Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad is drenched in homemade blue cheese dressing, bacon and has all the robust flavors to compliment the bold flavors of the beefy steak perfectly.
Storage Instructions
Storage
There are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure the 3 Ingredient Steak Marinade stays fresh and flavorful. It’s important to remember we’re talking solely about the marinade here, not the steak itself.
If you’ve made a batch of marinade and find that you have some leftover, or perhaps you’ve prepared it in advance, you can store excess marinade in the refrigerator. Pour the unused marinade into an airtight container or a jar with a tight-fitting lid. It’s best used within three days, ensuring the flavors stay vibrant.
It's also worth noting that if the marinade has been in contact with raw meat, it should not be reused or stored for later use, as this can pose a risk of cross-contamination. In the case where the marinade has touched the steak, it’s best to discard any leftovers for safety reasons.
Freezing
For those who like to plan ahead, you can also make the marinade in larger batches and freeze it. Pour the marinade into ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw what you need. Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your marinade.
Remember, the key to storing this simple steak marinade is keeping it airtight and cold, whether in the fridge for short-term use or in the freezer for extended storage.
Recipe Conclusion
This best 3 Ingredient Steak Marinade is now ready with just three simple ingredients! Now that you know the recipe, it's time to get rid of the basic steak recipe and enjoy some flavorful beef dinner! Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ with friends, this marinade guarantees a mouthwatering steak every time. Fire up that grill, sizzle away, and get ready to enjoy!
Now, take action—grab your ingredients, marinate like a pro, and transform your steak into a culinary delight! Share your grilling adventures with us, and let’s savor the deliciousness together. Happy cooking! You can also find us on Facebook or Instagram.
Other Steak Recipes You'll Love
- Bistecca Fiorentina: Experience the taste of Italy with this Tuscan classic. A simple yet elegant dish, highlighting the natural flavors of the steak.
- Boneless Beef Chuck Roast: A slow-cooked wonder, this recipe turns a chuck roast into a tender, flavorful feast, perfect for family dinners.
- The Perfect Porterhouse Steak: Master the art of cooking a porterhouse to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful steak every time.
- Flat Iron Pan-Seared Steak: Discover the secrets to a perfectly seared flat iron steak, a quick and delicious meal option.
- Tender Steak Tartare: For the more adventurous, this raw steak dish, seasoned and served fresh, offers a unique and exquisite taste experience. This is one of my favorite meals.
FAQs
Tough cuts like flank steak or skirt steak benefit most from a homemade steak marinade.
Use a meat mallet or marinate with acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus.
Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices before cooking.
3 Ingredient Steak Marinade
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients to make 3 ingredient steak marinade.
- Mince garlic.
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and rosemary. Mix well.
- Marinate the steak: Place the flank steak in a dish or a plastic bag. Coat evenly with the marinade, rubbing it gently into the meat.
- Rest: Allow the steak to marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Prepare for grilling: Take the steak out of the fridge 20 minutes before grilling.
- Grill: Cook the steak over medium-high heat to your liking... this is a personal preference and also depends on a number of factors discussed in the notes.
- Serve: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after taking off the grill, then slice against the grain and serve.
Notes
- INGREDIENT NOTE: You will need to add in a large 2-3lb flank steak. This recipe and nutritional information contains ingredients just for the marinade!
- Herb Variations: Feel free to substitute rosemary with other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Oil Options: While olive oil is a great choice, you can also try avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a twist.
- Additional Aromatics: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding chopped shallots, a splash of lemon juice, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Meat Alternatives: This marinade works wonderfully with other meats such as chicken, pork, or even lamb.
- More Beef: If you can't find flank steak, then opt for skirt steak. It works just as well. If you're living abroad, this cut of beef is called Bavette.
- Cooking Notes: The cook time on this recipe is variable dependent on a number of factors that are hard to convey in a recipe. They include: the thickness of the meat, time to let the steak come to room temperature, heat and intensity of the grill, and more. The best way to know when to remove from the grill is a meat thermometer. Here are some cooking temperatures: Rare 120-130F, Medium 135-145F, Well-done is 155-165F.
- Storage: Store unused marinade in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid reusing marinade that has been in contact with raw meat.
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
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5 Responses
That marinade has been done long time ago, but definitely gives meat a good flavor.
Hi Norman- thanks for letting me know! I love this recipe... and have so many steak recipes coming up in the spring- stay tuned!
Tried it and it was super tasty
Simple and yet yummy!
Hi Michelle: thanks so much! I hope that you enjoy this recipe and many others!
Have a great day-
Scott