There’s nothing quite like the joy of grilling steak on a warm summer evening, the aroma wafting through the air as it sizzles on the grill. My favorite way to elevate this classic is with my lemon herb grilled steak recipe. The bright, zesty flavors from the lemon combined with the earthy notes of fresh herbs create a mouthwatering marinade that truly enhances the richness of the ribeye. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it a staple at your summer barbecues! It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for impressing your friends and family.
Ingredients for the Lemon Herb Grilled Steak Recipe
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant and tasty marinade that will take your steak to the next level:
- 2 lbs ribeye steak – Look for well-marbled cuts for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil works best for a rich taste.
- Juice of 2 lemons – Freshly squeezed is key; bottled juice just won’t have the same zing!
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped – Use a sharp knife to finely chop the leaves for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped – Strip the leaves from the stems before chopping.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a punch; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Salt and pepper to taste – I recommend kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper for the best seasoning.
These simple yet high-quality ingredients come together to create a marinade that’s bursting with flavor. Make sure to prep them just before you start marinating your steak for the freshest taste!
How to Prepare the Lemon Herb Grilled Steak Recipe
Preparing this lemon herb grilled steak is a straightforward yet rewarding process. Let’s dive into each step to ensure you get that perfect flavor and texture!
Preparing the Marinade
First, grab a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. To really extract the flavors from the herbs and garlic, give them a little rub between your fingers as you add them to the bowl. This releases their essential oils and enhances the marinade’s aroma. Make sure everything is well combined; you want that zesty, aromatic mixture to envelop the steak completely!
Marinating the Steak
Next, place your ribeye steak in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible. This helps the flavors penetrate better. For the best results, allow the steak to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but if you can swing it, let it soak overnight. Trust me, the longer, the better!
Grilling the Steak
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to high heat—around 450°F to 500°F is ideal. To check if it’s hot enough, hold your hand a few inches above the grill grates; if you can only keep it there for 2 seconds, it’s ready! Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time if you prefer it more or less done. Once grilled to your liking, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing; this helps retain all those delicious juices!
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. I love garnishing it with fresh herb sprigs for that extra pop of color and flavor. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every juicy, herb-infused bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of active prep time, you can have a delicious meal marinating, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!
- Flavorful Results: The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs infuses the steak with incredible flavor, elevating your grilling game to a whole new level.
- Healthy Choice: Ribeye steak is packed with protein, and using fresh herbs and lemon juice adds nutrients without any added preservatives or unhealthy ingredients.
- Versatile Pairings: This steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to fresh salads, allowing you to customize your meal to your liking.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the herbs and the juicy steak make for a stunning dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual barbecue or a fancy dinner, this lemon herb grilled steak fits seamlessly into any dining experience.
Tips for Success with the Lemon Herb Grilled Steak Recipe
Getting the perfect lemon herb grilled steak is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years to help you achieve the best results!
- Quality Matters: Always choose a high-quality ribeye steak. Look for well-marbled cuts, as the fat adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. You can also try this marinade with other cuts like flank or sirloin, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Herb Variations: While rosemary and thyme are my go-to herbs, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding oregano, parsley, or even fresh sage for a different flavor profile. Each herb brings its own unique twist to the marinade.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. It adds a delightful kick that balances beautifully with the lemon.
- Marinating Time: For the most flavor, aim for at least 4 hours of marinating time, but overnight is ideal. The longer the steak sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be. Just don’t go overboard; marinating too long can break down the meat’s texture.
- Grill Temperature: Preheating your grill is crucial for a nice sear. Make sure to clean the grates before cooking for a nice char and to prevent sticking. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the steak hits the grill!
- Testing Doneness: Invest in a meat thermometer for perfect doneness every time! For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of about 130°F. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests, so take it off the grill just before it reaches your desired doneness.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the steak rest for 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
- Presentation: When slicing, remember to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. You can also drizzle a bit of the leftover marinade (that hasn’t touched the raw meat) over the sliced steak for added flavor and a beautiful finish.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of grilling the perfect lemon herb steak. Enjoy the process and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. It’s important to consider that individual dietary needs may differ. Here are the estimated values based on the ingredients listed in this lemon herb grilled steak recipe:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
For precise nutritional information, I recommend calculating based on your specific ingredients using a trusted nutrition calculator or app. Enjoy your meal, mindful of your dietary preferences!
FAQ about the Lemon Herb Grilled Steak Recipe
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is my favorite for its marbling and flavor, you can use other cuts like flank steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and tenderness of the cut.
How long should I marinate the steak?
For the best flavor, aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal! The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. Just be careful not to go overboard, as too long can affect the texture.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
No worries! You can use dried herbs in a pinch. Generally, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. So, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs, about 2 teaspoons of dried will do the trick!
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! You can whip up the marinade a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This way, the flavors have more time to meld together!
What should I serve with my lemon herb grilled steak?
This steak pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a crisp salad, or even some roasted potatoes. You can also serve it with a light chimichurri sauce for an extra burst of flavor. The options are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of your delicious lemon herb grilled steak (which is a rarity in my house), storing it properly is key to keeping that flavor intact! First, allow the steak to cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also use an airtight container for added protection. It should stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend doing it gently to maintain the juicy texture. The best method is to use a skillet on the stovetop over low heat. Just place the steak in the pan and cover it with a lid to help retain moisture, flipping it occasionally until warmed through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can pop it in the microwave, but be careful! Use a low power setting and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Another option is to slice the steak before reheating, which can speed up the process. Just remember, the goal is to get it warm without cooking it further. Enjoy those tasty leftovers, and savor every bite just like the first time!
For more information on the health benefits of herbs, check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about the nutritional value of ribeye steak, visit this Nutrition Value page.
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Lemon Herb Grilled Steak Recipe: 5 Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled steak marinated with lemon and herbs for a flavorful finish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ribeye steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steak in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice against the grain and serve with a garnish of fresh herbs.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Pair with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley for variation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: lemon herb grilled steak recipe
