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Grilled Skirt Steak

This grilled skirt steak is a fantastic option for a quick, flavourful dinner that fits perfectly into a diabetes-friendly diet. By focusing on high-quality protein and vibrant seasonings like cracked black peppercorns and sea salt, you can achieve a deeply savoury crust without the need for sugary marinades. The high-heat grilling method ensures the steak remains juicy and tender, making it an ideal choice for a healthy midweek meal or a relaxed weekend barbecue.

Skirt steak is a lean cut that absorbs seasonings beautifully, especially when paired with a zesty, herb-based accompaniment like chimichurri. Serving this dish with a fresh green salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables provides a balanced, low-carbohydrate meal that is as nutritious as it is satisfying. It is a brilliant example of how simple, fresh ingredients can create a sophisticated and heart-healthy dinner for the whole family.

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Ingredients for Grilled Skirt Steak

  • 2 1/2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns

  • 900g skirt steak (about three 1/2-inch-thick pieces)

  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt

  • Accompaniment: chimichurri sauceepi:recipelink</epi:recipelink>

How to make Grilled Skirt Steak

Prepare grill for cooking over direct heat with hot charcoal (high heat for gas; see Grilling Procedureepi:recipelink.</epi:recipelink>

While grill is heating, coarsely crush peppercorns with a mortar and pestle or by wrapping them in a kitchen towel and pressing with bottom of a heavy skillet.

Pat steaks dry and sprinkle both sides with salt and crushed pepper, pressing to help adhere. Grill steaks on lightly oiled grill rack (covered only if using a gas grill), turning over once and moving around to avoid flare-ups if necessary, 6 to 8 minutes total for medium-rare. Transfer steaks to a cutting board and let stand, loosely covered with foil, 5 minutes. Thinly slice steaks diagonally.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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