Grilled Flank Steak with Mango Avocado Salsa

I love making this Grilled Flank Steak because the marinade tenderizes the meat beautifully and infuses it with fresh, vibrant flavors. Paired with a bright, zesty mango avocado salsa, it’s a perfect summer meal that’s both satisfying and colorful. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a family dinner, this dish never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The herb-citrus marinade blends fresh rosemary and thyme with cumin, tamari, and a splash of lime and orange juice for a savory, herbal, and slightly sweet flavor profile that’s far from ordinary. I don’t marinate the steak overnight—just 2 to 6 hours is enough to get great flavor without bitterness. While grilling, I brush the steak with some of the marinade or olive oil and herbs to create a glossy, flavorful finish. The mango avocado salsa adds a fresh, zingy contrast that balances the richness of the beef and brightens up the plate.

Ingredients

For the marinade and steak:

• 1 flank steak (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)

• ⅓ cup olive oil

• 3 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce

• Juice of 1 lime

• Juice of 1 orange

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• ½ red onion, finely chopped

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)

• Juice of 1 lime

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl or resealable bag, whisk together olive oil, tamari, lime juice, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

2. Add the flank steak to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours, turning occasionally.

3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade and let excess drip off. Reserve some marinade and boil it briefly if you want to baste during grilling.

4. Grill the steak for about 4–6 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. While grilling, brush the steak with reserved marinade or olive oil and herbs to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

6. While the steak rests, prepare the mango avocado salsa by combining mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix gently to combine.

7. Serve sliced steak topped with a generous spoonful of mango avocado salsa.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Marinating takes 2–6 hours (can be done ahead), and grilling plus prep takes about 25-30 minutes.

Variations

• Swap flank steak for skirt steak or sirloin if preferred.

• Add diced cucumber or cherry tomatoes to the salsa for extra crunch.

• For a smoky twist, add smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the marinade.

• If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeño from the salsa.

Storage and reheating

Store leftover sliced steak and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat steak gently on the stove or grill. Salsa is best served fresh but can be kept chilled for a day.

FAQs

Can I marinate the steak overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight is fine, but I recommend no longer than 12 hours to avoid overpowering the flavors.

What if I don’t have tamari?

Regular soy sauce is a great substitute; just adjust salt accordingly since soy sauce is saltier.

Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the salsa a few hours in advance, but add avocado last or just before serving to prevent browning.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

Can I cook this indoors without a grill?

Absolutely. Use a cast iron grill pan or a heavy skillet on medium-high heat.

Conclusion

This Grilled Flank Steak with Mango Avocado Salsa is a refreshing and flavorful way to enjoy summer dining. The herbaceous marinade and juicy, tender steak paired with a bright salsa create a meal that’s perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or any time I want a satisfying dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. It’s simple to prepare but feels special every time.

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