Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Flank Steak with Grilled Pineapple Salsa Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 33 reviews

This flavorful Flank Steak with Pineapple Marinade recipe features a juicy marinated flank steak grilled to perfection alongside caramelized pineapple spears and vibrant bell peppers, served with a fresh, tangy pineapple salsa. The marinade blends tropical pineapple juice with garlic, lemon, coconut aminos, and maple syrup, delivering a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Ideal for a summer barbecue or an easy yet impressive dinner, this recipe highlights grilling techniques that lock in juicy tenderness and smoky char.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Marinade

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 cup coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup fresh pineapple juice (canned works too)
  • 4 Tablespoons maple syrup (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Steak and Vegetables

  • 2 lb flank steak (skirt steak or flat iron steak make good substitutes)
  • 1 medium pineapple (cut into spears, about 10-12)
  • 1 Tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 jalapeno (minced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (cut into rings or thick strips)
  • 1/2 red onion (diced)
  • 2 Tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Marinate the steak (2 hrs): In a gallon freezer bag or bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, coconut aminos, fresh pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir or shake to mix thoroughly. Add the flank steak and ensure it’s evenly coated. Seal and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours to let flavors infuse.
  2. Prep the pineapple (5 min): When ready to cook, slice the pineapple spears and place them in a bowl or bag. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and toss well to coat the pineapple, enhancing caramelization during grilling.
  3. Grill steak and veggies (10 min): Preheat your grill to high heat, about 450°F. Remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Grill the flank steak with the lid closed for around 4 to 5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (medium-rare). At the moment you flip the steak, place the pineapple spears and red bell pepper on the grill, cooking each side for about 3 minutes to achieve a charred sweetness.
  4. Rest (10 min): Transfer the cooked steak, pineapple, and peppers to a clean cutting board and let them rest undisturbed for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the meat juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness and moisture.
  5. Make pineapple salsa (10 min): While the steak rests, finely chop the grilled pineapple spears and red bell peppers. Combine them in a medium bowl with minced jalapeno, diced red onion, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and kosher salt. Stir gently to blend all flavors into a fresh, tangy salsa.
  6. Serve: Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain for optimal tenderness. Serve alongside the grilled pineapple salsa for a bright, summery flavor combination that complements the savory steak perfectly.

Notes

  • You can use canned pineapple juice if fresh is unavailable, but fresh juice will provide a brighter flavor.
  • For preferred doneness other than medium-rare, adjust grilling time accordingly and use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature.
  • Skirt or flat iron steak are great alternatives if flank steak isn’t available.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the grill to ensure proper searing and caramelization of both meat and vegetables.
  • Letting the steak rest after cooking is crucial for juicy, tender results.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American