Are you getting tired of having steak dinners all the time? Perhaps your steaks aren’t as tasty as you’d like them to be. You’re looking for a delicious solution. You’re not alone; many home chefs struggle to find that mix of seasonings that can transform a piece of meat into a mouthwatering dish. Give this straightforward 3 ingredient steak marinade recipe a try and enhance the flavor!

Did you know that by using three household items, you can create a marinade that will completely change your steak cooking game? It’s absolutely true! Olive oil, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar team up to become your weapon in the kitchen.

This article will walk you through preparing a 3 ingredient steak marinade that adds a kick, without overpowering the flavor of your beef. Ready for more tender steaks? Keep reading—deliciousness is on its way!

Key Points

• Combine olive oil, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar to whip up a flavorful steak marinade.
• Let the steak soak in the marinade for one hour, but no longer than 24 hours, for optimum taste and tenderness.
• This marinade pairs well with types of steaks such, as flank, sirloin, filet mignon and strip steaks.
• To enhance the taste of your marinade, try adding ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce or finely chopped cloves. 
• It’s important to marinate your steak in the refrigerator to prevent any growth.

What exactly is a steak marinade?

A steak marinade is a liquid in which you soak your steak before cooking it. This process helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Typically, marinades contain components such as vinegar or lemon juice along with oil, herbs, or spices.

The acid helps break down the fibers of the meat, while the oil retains moisture during cooking. Herbs and spices contribute to enhancing the flavor profile of the steak.

You can experiment with combinations of ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder or Italian seasoning to create flavors for various types of steaks. Whether its a succulent sirloin or a delicate filet mignon,.

Just mix all the ingredients together and let your steak marinate for some time before grilling or searing it.

The 3 Ingredients for the Perfect Steak Marinade

For a steak marinade, all you need are three ingredients: olive oil, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. Olive oil helps lock in moisture. Adds richness to the meat.

Using soy sauce adds a kick. That savory umami flavor elevates a decent steak to an exceptional one.

Adding vinegar brings a hint of sweetness and tanginess to harmonize the tastes. When combined, these elements form an impactful pairing, for your barbecue or main dish.

Blend these liquids before applying them to your beef tenderloin or sirloin steak. Ensure each piece is coated evenly so that every bite is just as delightful as the last. This trio works wonders when allowed time to penetrate the meat—an hour before cooking. Up to 24 hours for optimal flavor and tenderness!

The Advantages of Marinating Steak

Marinating steak has an effect on the meat. It breaks down fibers, resulting in easy-to-cheek bites. The flavors seeped within, providing a tantalizing taste with every mouthful.

A thorough soak in marinade also keeps your steak succulent. When cooked at these temperatures, your steak remains moist; instead, it cooks perfectly with a delicious crust that retains its juiciness.

Another benefit is grilling practices. Steak often undergoes cooking at high heat levels, which can produce chemicals. However, the appropriate marinade reduces these risks significantly, allowing you to relish your meal without concern.

Marinating your meat is like preparing it for a grilling or frying session that will be delicious and healthier for you!

A guide to creating a 3-ingredient marinade for steak

Enhance your steak game with an impressive 3-ingredient marinade that’s simple to make and bursts with flavor. Get ready for a mouthwatering makeover of your cut using a few pantry essentials.

Ingredients

Let’s craft a steak marinade that’s both uncomplicated and flavorful. You will only need three ingredients.

• Olive oil: Begin with 1/4 cup of olive oil. This will help tenderize the steak and enhance its juiciness.
• Soy sauce: Incorporate 1/4 cup of soy sauce for a flavor that elevates the meat.
• Balsamic vinegar: Mix in 2 tablespoons of vinegar to harmonize sweetness and acidity.

Instructions

Creating a delightful steak marinade is easy and fast. All you need are olive oil, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar to get started.

• Pour 1/4 cup of olive oil into a mixing bowl. Olive oil aids in tenderizing the meat.
• Add 1/4 cup of soy sauce to the bowl. Soy sauce imparts a taste to your steak.
• Incorporate 1/4 cup of vinegar into the mix.
• Balsamic vinegar brings a hint of sweetness and liveliness, to the mix. 
• Combine all three ingredients until they are thoroughly mixed. Ensure the mixture is smooth in texture. 
• Place your steak in a plastic bag or a shallow container that fits the meat. 
• Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully immersed in it. Every part of the steak should be coated with the marinade. Seal the bag. 
• Cover the dish tightly with wrap to retain flavor and keep air out. Store the marinated steak in the refrigerator to maintain food safety standards. 
• Let it sit in the fridge for 60 minutes but not more than 24 hours to enhance its flavor profile gradually over time. If possible, flip the steak through marinating to coat both sides with deliciousness. 
• Grill your steak on a grilling surface or pan at high heat to lock in juices swiftly. 
• Cook until you reach your desired level of doneness, using a meat thermometer for precision results.

How Long to Marinate Steak

• Marinate your steak for at least an hour to let the flavors soak in. But if you have time, letting it sit for up to 24 hours will make it even tastier.
• Plan ahead and marinate your steak overnight in the fridge for best results.
• Always cover the meat while it’s marinating to keep it safe and clean.
• Flip the steak halfway through marinating to make sure all sides get flavored evenly.
• If you’re short on time, even a quick 60-minute soak can add some zing to your steak.
• Don’t go over 24 hours; too long, and the acids in the marinade can break down the meat too much, making it mushy.
• Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking; this helps with even grilling or searing.

The Best Steaks to Use for this Marinade

The right cut of steak can elevate this simple marinade to culinary heights, with options like a robust flank or the thin and tender milanesa offering perfect canvases for these bold flavors.

Choose your favorite to create a savory masterpiece that marries well with the marinade’s enhancing touch.

Cook your marinated Milanesa in a hot cast-iron skillet for a crispy outer sear while keeping the inside juicy. This quick-cooking method ensures your steak gets that perfect char without overcooking.

Whether you’re aiming for medium rare or medium well, timing is key—just a few minutes per side should do the trick because of how thin these steaks are. Enjoy your deliciously seasoned Milanesa as part of your next meal!

Cooking Methods for Marinated Steak

Cook your marinated steak to perfection using one of these methods. Choose the best option for the flavor and texture you love.

• Grill over medium-high heat. Place the steak on the preheated grill. Cook each side for 4-6 minutes, depending on the desired doneness.
• Pan-sear in a skillet. Heat oil over high heat until it shimmers. Sear steak on both sides, then lower heat to cook through.
• Use a broiler: Set the oven to broil and position the rack so the steak will be about 4 inches from the heat source. Broil, flipping once, until browned and cooked.
• Try an air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook steak for about 10 minutes or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.

Always let your steak rest: After cooking, set it aside for at least five minutes before slicing. This helps keep juices in the meat so your steak stays moist and flavorful.

Possible Additions to the Marinade

After choosing your cooking method, you might want to boost the flavor of your steak marinade even more. Personalize it with extra ingredients for a unique tasting experience.

• Swap balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar to add a fruity twist.
• Stir in Worcestershire Sauce for a deeper, savory flavor.
• Squeeze in some lemon juice for a fresh, citrusy zing.
• Crush garlic cloves and mix them into the marinade to enhance its aroma and taste.
• Incorporate steak seasoning recipes that include thyme, black pepper, and salt to create complex flavors.
• Add red wine vinegar for a refined tanginess that complements the steak’s richness.
• Consider liquid aminos or tamari sauce if you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative with less sodium.
• Sprinkle some smoked paprika into the blend for a hint of smokiness without firing up the grill.

Suggested Side Dishes for Marinated Steak

Choosing the right side dishes can turn your marinated steak into a memorable meal. Here are some tasty options to complement your flavorful meat.

• Baked potatoes: They are a classic pairing with steak. Load them up with butter, sour cream, cheese, and chives for an extra treat.
• Spinach Strawberry Salad: This light and refreshing salad adds a sweet and tangy taste that balances the savory flavors of the steak.
• Easy Caesar Salad: Toss crisp romaine with creamy dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons for a traditional side that never fails to please.
• Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Salad: Juicy roasted tomatoes paired with fresh mozzarella and basil make a deliciously simple Italian-inspired side.
• Grilled Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for a quick veggie addition.
• Sauteed Mushrooms: Buttered mushrooms sautéed with garlic go great on top of or beside your steak.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, grilled or boiled, is an easy side that adds color and sweetness to your plate.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic meld perfectly with any marinade you choose for your steak.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli steamed to perfection offers a healthy and vibrant side option.

Storing and Reheating Marinated Steak

After enjoying your steak with tasty side dishes, let’s talk about how to keep the leftovers fresh. Store them right and you’ll have another delicious meal waiting for you.

• Place your leftover steak in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator; it stays good for up to 3 days.
• For reheating, use a little butter or oil on the stovetop or in the oven.
• This keeps your steak moist and flavorful as it heats up again.
• An air fryer also works well for warming up leftover steak quickly.
• If you want to freeze your marinated steak:
• First, wrap it tightly in foil or freezer paper.
• Next, put it into an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Your frozen steak can last 2–3 months while still tasting great.

FAQs about Steak Marinade

Steak marinade makes your meat tender and flavorful. You might wonder if you can marinate steak for more than 24 hours. Doing that could break down the steak too much, making it mushy, so stick to 4–24 hours for the best texture.

People often ask which steaks work well with this simple marinade. Flank steak, filet mignon, sirloin, and strip steaks are all great choices that absorb these tasty flavors.

Questions come up about where to store your marinated steak too. Always marinate in the refrigerator for safety reasons; this keeps bacteria away from your food. If extra marinade is left over after steeping the steaks, don’t throw it out! Freezing marinade saves it for next time.

Now let’s talk about cooking these deliciously soaked steaks to perfection.

Conclusion

This marinade is a game-changer for steak lovers. Just mix olive oil, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar for amazing flavor. Remember to let your meat soak in it for 4–24 hours before cooking.

Try it out on different steaks and enjoy the delicious results! Get ready to impress at your next BBQ with this simple secret.

FAQs

1. What are the three ingredients for a simple steak marinade?

For an easy steak marinade, mix sauces, fresh herbs, and your favorite beers together to give it a great flavor.

2. Can I make this marinade if I’m on a low carb diet?

Yes! Choose low-carb sauces and herbs for the marinade to fit into your balanced diet plan.

3. Is it possible to cook marinated steak in the microwave?

It’s best not to cook marinated steak in the microwave. For fantastic results, try grilling, broiling, or smoking instead.

4. Will this marinade work with other meats, like ground beef?

Absolutely! This versatile marinade can add flavor to ground beef or any other meat you like.

5. Do I need fancy equipment to make this 3 ingredient steak marinade?

Nope! You don’t need special tools—just a bowl to mix your ingredients and then let the flavors soak into your steak before cooking!