Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Name: Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons molasses; 3 medium garlic cloves (peeled & smashed); 1/2 medium onion (chopped); 2 pounds skirt steak

Published: June 24, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and molasses creates a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, this marinade fits easily into any busy schedule.
Versatile Uses: Not only great for skirt steak, but this marinade can also be used on chicken or beef for added variety.
Perfect for Grilling: Designed specifically for grilling, this marinade ensures your meat stays juicy and tender.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To whip up the Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having these handy will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large zip bag
Grill
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large zip bag: This is crucial for marinating the steak evenly while ensuring all ingredients coat the meat thoroughly.
Grill: A reliable grill is essential for achieving that perfect sear and smoky flavor on your skirt steak.

Ingredients

Very flavorful marinade for steak!

Marinade Ingredients

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons molasses
3 medium garlic cloves, (peeled & smashed with the side of a knife)
1/2 medium onion, (chopped)
2 pounds skirt steak

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Mix all marinade ingredients in a large zip bag.
Smash the ingredients around to mix them together well.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Add the skirt steak into the bag with the marinade.
Seal up tight and refrigerate for 3 to 12 hours.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

About 15 minutes before grilling, take the steak out of the refrigerator.
Let it sit at room temperature while you preheat your grill to medium heat.

Step 4: Grill Perfectly

Remove the steak from the marinade.
Grill each side for 5 to 8 minutes depending on your preferred doneness level.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once grilled, remove from heat and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes.
Slice against the grain before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy an amazing meal with this flavorful skirt steak!

How to Serve Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Serving skirt steak marinated in the best marinade elevates any meal. The rich flavors and tender texture make it a standout dish at gatherings or family dinners.

Pair with Fresh Salads

Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the savory steak.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and parmesan add a delicious crunch that balances the marinated steak’s richness.

Accompany with Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilling these veggies enhances their natural sweetness, making them a perfect side for your skirt steak.
Asparagus: Simply seasoned and grilled, asparagus adds elegance to your plate and pairs beautifully with the marinade flavors.

Serve with Starchy Sides

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy texture and garlic flavor create a comforting base for your grilled skirt steak.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs provides a mild backdrop that allows the marinade’s flavor to shine.

How to Perfect Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

To achieve the best results when grilling skirt steak, consider these tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the steak to marinate for up to 12 hours infuses it with deeper flavors.
Use Room Temperature Steak: Letting the steak sit out for 15 minutes before grilling promotes even cooking.
Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures that you get nice sear marks while keeping the inside juicy.
Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your desired doneness; 130°F for medium-rare is ideal.
Let it Rest: Allowing the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling helps juices redistribute for better flavor.
Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain improves tenderness in each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Choosing complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your grilled skirt steak.

Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of your marinade.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings summer vibes and sweetness to balance the savory steak.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with sour cream or chives offer a hearty addition to any meal.
Grilled Corn Salad: Combining grilled corn, tomatoes, and avocado creates a vibrant, flavorful salad that pairs perfectly with skirt steak.
Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, quinoa mixed with vegetables makes a healthy side that complements the meat well.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts roasted in olive oil provide an earthy flavor that matches nicely with marinated beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your steak. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

Skipping the marination time: Many people underestimate the importance of letting the steak marinate. A longer marination time enhances flavor, so aim for at least 3 hours, but up to 12 hours is ideal.
Not using fresh ingredients: Using garlic or onions that are past their prime can dull the marinade’s flavor. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best results.
Ignoring meat temperature: Cooking straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Allowing the steak to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling promotes even cooking.
Overcooking the steak: Keep an eye on your cooking time. Grill each side for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on your desired doneness, to avoid dry and tough meat.
Cutting against the grain incorrectly: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Make sure you identify the direction of the grain before cutting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover skirt steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure that it’s completely cooled before sealing it in a container to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Wrap skirt steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steak in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Slice the steak into smaller pieces, place on a microwave-safe plate, and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat until warmed through without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best marinade for grilling skirt steak?

The best marinade includes soy sauce, Dijon mustard, red apple vinegar, and molasses among other ingredients. This combination enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat.

How long should I marinate skirt steak?

For optimal flavor, marinate skirt steak for at least 3 hours, but up to 12 hours is recommended.

Can I use this marinade on other cuts of beef?

Yes! This marinade works well with other cuts like flank steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

How do I know when my skirt steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time as necessary based on your preferred doneness.

What sides pair well with grilled skirt steak?

Consider serving grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic mashed potatoes as perfect side dishes that complement this flavorful skirt steak.

Final Thoughts

The Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak truly elevates your meal with its rich flavors and tenderizes this often-underappreciated cut of meat. It’s versatile enough to customize by adding herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table! Give it a try and savor every bite!

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