Grilled Steak with Tomato Salad and French Fries

This Grilled Flank Steak with Tomato Salad and Homemade French Fries recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors with tender steak, a refreshing tomato salad, and crispy fries. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s ideal for a casual dinner or grilling season. The sweet and tangy tomato salad paired with the savory steak and crispy fries makes this a satisfying meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 lb potatoes, cut into fries
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the flank steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the desired doneness is reached.
4. In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, toss the cut potatoes with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
7. Let the grilled steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve the sliced steak with the fresh tomato salad and homemade French fries.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add Cheese: Top the steak with crumbled blue cheese or feta for a richer flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or a vegetable-based steak for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato salad for some heat.
• Herb Variations: Swap fresh basil for parsley, cilantro, or oregano to change the flavor profile of the tomato salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tomato salad should be consumed within 1 day for freshness. The fries can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. To crisp up leftover fries, reheat them in a hot oven or air fryer.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use another cut of steak? Yes, you can substitute flank steak with skirt steak, sirloin, or rib-eye for a different texture and flavor.
2. How can I make the tomato salad ahead of time? You can prepare the tomato salad up to 2 hours before serving, but avoid adding the balsamic vinegar and honey until shortly before serving to keep the salad fresh.
3. Can I grill the potatoes instead of baking them? Yes, you can grill the seasoned potatoes on skewers or in a grill basket for a smoky flavor.
4. How can I make the fries crispy? To ensure crispy fries, make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet, and flip them halfway through baking.
5. Can I marinate the steak overnight? Yes, you can marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, and herbs overnight to enhance its flavor.
6. Can I use store-bought fries? Yes, if you prefer convenience, you can use frozen fries instead of making your own.
7. What should I serve with this dish? A side of grilled vegetables or a simple green salad would complement this meal beautifully.
8. How can I tell when the steak is done? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
9. Can I use a different type of vinegar in the salad? Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but balsamic adds a unique sweetness.
10. Can I make this meal without grilling? If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the steak in a skillet on the stove or use a grill pan.

Conclusion

This Grilled Flank Steak with Tomato Salad and Homemade French Fries recipe is a fantastic combination of savory, fresh, and crispy elements. The steak is tender and flavorful, while the tomato salad adds a refreshing contrast, and the fries bring that satisfying crunch. Perfect for a family meal or gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress.