Chimichurri Steak

Treat yourself to this incredible chimichurri steak! The combo of tender flank steak and flavorful sauce is a match made in heaven. This dish is perfect for grilling season, family dinners, or even special occasions. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, chimichurri steak will impress your guests and become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This chimichurri steak comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The fresh herbs and spices create a vibrant chimichurri sauce that elevates the steak’s rich flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s adaptable to any occasion.
• Perfectly Cooked Steak: The method ensures each steak is juicy and tender, yielding impressive results every time.
• Easy Cleanup: Utilizing simple tools makes cleanup a breeze after enjoying your delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are the key tools you’ll need for this chimichurri steak recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet or grill pan: Ideal for achieving a perfect sear on your steaks due to its excellent heat retention.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining the fresh ingredients needed for the chimichurri sauce effortlessly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing the cooked steak against the grain, preserving tenderness.

Ingredients

Treat yourself to this incredible chimichurri steak! The combo of tender flank steak and flavorful sauce is a match made in heaven.

Ingredients:
– 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks, about 1.5 inches thick
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried oregano if fresh isn’t available)
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red apple vinegar vinegar
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
– 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Chimichurri Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

1. Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly.

Step 2: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine the parsley, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the olive oil, red apple vinegar vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir well to blend all ingredients together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Set aside for at least 10 minutes (or up to an hour) to allow flavors to meld together at room temperature.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

1. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel to remove any surface moisture. This helps create a good sear.
2. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper, pressing into the meat.
3. Place your cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for about 3-5 minutes until very hot.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and swirl to coat evenly; it should shimmer but not smoke excessively.

Step 4: Cook the Steaks

1. Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan without moving them for about 3-4 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
2. Flip the steaks and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare doneness; adjust cooking time as desired.

Step 5: Resting Period

1. Transfer cooked steaks to a cutting board and loosely cover with foil.
2. Allow resting for about 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices throughout the meat.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. After resting, slice against the grain into approximately 1/4-inch thick pieces.
2. Arrange slices on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce over sliced steak before serving.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve immediately with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delightful chimichurri steak experience!

How to Serve Chimichurri Steak

Serving chimichurri steak is a delightful experience, as the vibrant flavors of the chimichurri sauce enhance the rich taste of the steak. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the savory steak.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes drizzled with olive oil add freshness to your plate.

Accompany with Starchy Sides

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting backdrop for the robust flavors of chimichurri steak.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with herbs offer a slightly sweet contrast to savory steak.

Add Grains for Texture

• Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with bell peppers, corn, and lime dressing adds texture and nutrition to your meal.
• Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous cooked with vegetables makes a light and flavorful side.

Enhance with Extra Sauces

• Extra Chimichurri Sauce: Serve additional chimichurri on the side for those who love extra flavor.
• Salsa Verde: A fresh salsa verde can add another layer of taste that pairs beautifully with the steak.

How to Perfect Chimichurri Steak

To achieve the best chimichurri steak, follow these essential tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Generously season your steaks before cooking. This enhances the natural flavors and creates a delicious crust.
• Use Room Temperature Steaks: Bring steaks to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly throughout.
• Hot Cooking Surface: Ensure your skillet or grill pan is very hot before adding the steaks. This promotes a perfect sear.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the steaks rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the steak, cut against the grain. This makes each piece more tender and easier to chew.
• Let Chimichurri Sit: Allowing chimichurri sauce to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Steak

The right side dishes can elevate your chimichurri steak experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this flavorful dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any extra chimichurri sauce.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender add color and nutrients.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the steak.
4. Baked Potatoes: Classic baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives make for a hearty side option.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs provides a subtle flavor that complements the boldness of chimichurri sauce.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter offers sweetness that pairs well with savory steak flavors.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized deliver a deliciously earthy taste alongside your meal.
8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Chickpeas tossed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing create a protein-packed side that’s satisfying and fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chimichurri steak, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold seasoning: Under-seasoning your steak can lead to bland flavor. Always generously season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold temperature mistakes: Cooking steak straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. Allow the steaks to come to room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cooking.
• Bold neglecting rest time: Cutting into your steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute.
• Bold skipping chimichurri prep time: Rushing the chimichurri sauce leads to less flavor. Allow at least 10 minutes for the flavors to blend together before serving.
• Bold improper slicing: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tender bites. Make sure to slice your steak against the grain for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chimichurri steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chimichurri Steak

• Wrap steaks tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chimichurri Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place steaks on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and warm each side of the steak for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chimichurri Steak?

Chimichurri steak refers to grilled or seared beef topped with chimichurri sauce, which is made from fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.

How do I make Chimichurri Sauce?

To make chimichurri sauce, combine finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, olive oil, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and let sit for flavor development.

Can I use other cuts of meat for Chimichurri Steak?

Yes! You can use flank steak, sirloin, or any preferred cut of beef. Adjust cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness.

Is Chimichurri Sauce spicy?

Chimichurri sauce has a mild spice level due to red pepper flakes but can be adjusted according to your preference by adding more or less.

How should I serve Chimichurri Steak?

Serve chimichurri steak sliced with additional chimichurri sauce on the side. It pairs well with vegetables or grains as sides.

Can I customize my Chimichurri Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs like cilantro or basil or adjust the acidity by using different types of vinegar according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Chimichurri steak is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. The combination of juicy meat and zesty sauce makes it stand out on any dinner table. Feel free to customize the chimichurri with your favorite herbs or spices!