Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
Marinate the Steak
- Place the skirt steak in a large Ziploc bag or a shallow non-reactive dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the steak, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal the bag (removing as much air as possible) or cover the dish.
- Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably 4-8 hours for maximum flavor. Do not marinate for more than 12 hours, as the lime juice can start to break down the meat too much.
Cook the Skirt Steak
- About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator to bring it closer to room temperature. This promotes more even cooking. Discard any excess marinade.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450-500°F / 230-260°C) or a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet.
- Carefully place the skirt steak on the hot grill or in the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F / 54-57°C), or longer for desired doneness. Skirt steak cooks quickly due to its thinness.
Rest and Slice
- Once cooked, transfer the skirt steak to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Skirt steak has a very noticeable grain, and slicing against it is crucial for tenderness.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice, beans, tortillas for tacos, or a fresh salad.
Notes
For best results, pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and allows for a better sear. When grilling, avoid overcooking skirt steak as it can become tough quickly. Use a meat thermometer if unsure about doneness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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