If you're like me, always on the hunt for easy and delicious recipes that fit into a low carb and keto lifestyle, you're going to 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 and GLUTEN-FREE.
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?
Should You Marinate 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: Marinating a steak properly isn’t fast. It requires planning and patience, as a good marinade often needs several hours to effectively impart its flavors to the steak.
- Risk of Overpowering: There's a fine line between a well-marinated steak and one where the marinade overwhelms the natural flavor of the meat. 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.
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HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN 3 INGREDIENT STEAK MARINADE:
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.
Let's make this homemade steak marinade together:
Follow along with these easy steps to make this steak marinade right in your kitchen, ready for the grill in no time flat.
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:
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 simple steak marinade doesn't mean that it doesn't bring home the flavor.
STORING AND FREEZING THIS SIMPLE STEAK MARINADE:
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 it 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.
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.
This Simple Grilled Steak Recipe Loves to Be Paired With:
1. Carrot Mash With Ginger & Garlic: A lively blend of sweet carrots and zesty ginger, this mash is a colorful, flavorful complement to your steak. This recipe is not considered keto-friendly or low carb.
2. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in the creamy richness of these garlic-infused mashed potatoes, a classic pairing for a hearty steak. This recipe is not low carb.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, slightly sweet, and utterly delightful, these sweet potato fries add a fun twist to any steak dinner.
4. 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.
5. Baked Brussels Sprouts Gratin: A creamy, cheesy gratin that transforms Brussels sprouts into a decadent treat, perfect alongside your grilled steak.
6. 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 steak perfectly.
Other Steak Recipes You'll Love
1. Bistecca Fiorentina: Experience the taste of Italy with this Tuscan classic. A simple yet elegant dish, highlighting the natural flavors of the steak.
2. Boneless Beef Chuck Roast: A slow-cooked wonder, this recipe turns a chuck roast into a tender, flavorful feast, perfect for family dinners.
3. The Perfect Porterhouse Steak: Master the art of cooking a porterhouse to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful steak every time.
4. Flat Iron Pan Seared Steak: Discover the secrets to a perfectly seared flat iron steak, a quick and delicious meal option.
5. 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.
The STruggle is REAl
Over the last year, I've fallen off the low carb way of eating and I know I'm not the only one. I've gained back over 50lbs and have tried desperately to kick-start myself back into ketosis... but it hasn't worked so far.
It's been a long and painful journey gaining so much weight back. I've learned that restarting low carb is so much harder than I'd ever imagined, but I have a plan that I want to share.
I will be documenting my return to the low carb lifestyle on this site. If you're interested in following along, be sure to subscribe below.
Restarting Low Carb
3 Ingredient Steak Marinade
A perfect choice for those following a keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diet, this easy and adaptable marinade brings out the best in your flank steak. Experiment with different herbs, oils, and aromatics to tailor the flavor to your taste. Whether you're grilling for a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering, this marinade promises a delightful and unforgettable steak experience. Fresh, fun, and undeniably flavorful, it's time to make every steak memorable with this simple yet sensational marinade!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
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.
This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.
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Norman says
That marinade has been done long time ago, but definitely gives meat a good flavor.
Scott Groth says
Hi Norman- thanks for letting me know! I love this recipe... and have so many steak recipes coming up in the spring- stay tuned!