Beef round steak takes a long soak in a southwestern-style marinade of fresh lime juice, jalapeno, shallot, garlic and cilantro and then grilled to perfection.

Grilled Southwest Steak

1 pound beef round steak, cut 1-inch thick

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1/3 cup fresh lime juice

3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped (see note)

3 shallots, chopped

2 tablespoons snipped cilantro

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

1. Trim fat from steak. Place steak in a plastic bag and set the bag into a shallow dish.
2. For marinade, in a small bowl stir together oil, lime juice, jalapeno peppers, shallots, cilantro, garlic, salt and pepper. Pour over steak; seal bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for 6 hours or overnight, turning bag occasionally.
3. Drain steak, reserving marinade.
4. Grill steak on an uncovered grill directly over medium coals to desired doneness, turning once. Allow 14 to 16 minutes for medium rare or 18 to 20 minutes for medium. Brush occasionally with marinade up to the last 5 minutes of grilling.

Makes 4 servings.

Note: Because hot peppers contain oils that can burn your eyes, lips and skin, protect yourself when working working with peppers by covering one or both hands with plastic gloves or bags. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or face.