Green Onion Steak Marinade

For more robust flavor, add minced garlic or shallots to the marinade.

If you want a spicier kick, add a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

When grilling, allow the steak to come to room temperature before cooking for even results.

For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade.

If using tender cuts of steak, reduce the marinating time to avoid it becoming too tender.

Finish the steak with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt after cooking for an enhanced flavor and texture.

What is the purpose of marinating steak?

Marinating steak infuses flavor into the meat and can help tenderize tougher cuts through the action of acidic ingredients, such as lemon juice or vinegar.

How long should I marinate the steak?

You can marinate the steak for as little as 30 minutes for a mild flavor, but ideally for 3-4 hours or up to 24 hours for more pronounced flavor and tenderness.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?

You can substitute olive oil with other oils such as avocado oil, canola oil, or even sesame oil, which can add different flavors.

What if I don't have fresh lemon juice?

If fresh lemon juice isn't available, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh juice is preferable for vibrant flavor. Alternatively, you could use lime juice or vinegar for a different acidity.

Can I use other herbs instead of thyme or Italian seasoning?

You can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even fresh parsley for different flavor experiences.

Is this marinade suitable for other meats?

Yes, this marinade works well for various meats like chicken, pork, or even fish, although marinating times will differ depending on the protein.

Can I reuse the marinade after it's been with raw meat?

No, it's unsafe to reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw meat due to the risk of contamination. You can reserve some marinade before adding the meat if you wish to use it for basting later, but it must be kept separate.

Should I rinse the steak before cooking?

Rinsing is generally not recommended as it can lead to cross-contamination. Instead, pat the steak dry with paper towels to help achieve a better sear.

What cooking methods work well for steak marinated in this mixture?

This marinade is versatile and works well with grilling, pan-frying, broiling, or even sous-vide cooking, depending on the desired texture and flavor.

Can I marinate steak overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight can enhance the flavor and tenderness, but avoid marinating for over 24 hours, especially with acidic ingredients, as it can lead to a mushy texture.

How can I tell if the steak is cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; for medium-rare, you want it at about 130 degrees F to 135 degrees F, and adjust according to your preferred doneness.

Can I freeze marinated steak?

While you can freeze marinated steak, it's best to do so before cooking. Place the marinated steak in a zip-top bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Measuring Spoons: For measuring the green onions, soy sauce, olive oil, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, and fresh lemon juice.

Zip-top Plastic Bag: To combine the marinade ingredients and marinate the steak in the refrigerator.

Cutting Board and Knife: For mincing the green onions before adding them to the marinade.

Grilled Shrimp: The marinade's fresh and savory notes work well with shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Roasted Vegetables: The marinade can also be brushed over vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini before roasting, bringing out their flavors.

Quinoa Salad: Complement the marinated steak with a light quinoa salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta that refreshes the palate with its brightness.

Steamed Asparagus: A side of steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon will alongside your steak match the marinade's citrus notes.

Chimichurri Sauce: Serve chimichurri alongside the steak for an extra layer of flavor. Its herbaceous qualities pair well with the green onion and soy ingredients in the marinade.

Chicken: Use the same marinade for chicken to create a flavorful Asian-flavored dish, that can be served over rice for a quick weeknight dinner.

Sesame Noodles: The marinade's Asian-inspired flavors would pair nicely with sesame noodles, creating an Asian-themed meal.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sauteed garlic butter mushrooms served on top of the steak will complement the umami flavors of the steak marinade.

Miso Glazed Eggplant: The Asian flavor of the steak marinade makes miso-glazed eggplant a suitable companion.

Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of a Caesar salad can stand up to the steak while providing a crisp, crunchy texture that offsets the richness of the meat.