Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The bold, herbaceous chimichurri complements the smoky, juicy steak perfectly.
- Easy to Make: Requires just a few simple steps and ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish.
- Versatile: Works with various cuts of steak and pairs wonderfully with sides like salads, vegetables, or even rice.
- Healthy: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients and minimal oil.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the steak:
- 4 medium-sized steaks (sirloin, ribeye, or flank)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the chimichurri sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a bowl, combine parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red chili, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Season the Steak:
Rub steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Steak:
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting the time for your desired level of doneness.
- Rest the Steak:
Remove from the grill and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes to retain their juices.
- Serve:
Slice the steaks against the grain if using flank steak, or serve whole. Top generously with chimichurri sauce and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Variations
- Alternative Herbs: Swap parsley or cilantro with fresh basil or mint for a unique twist.
- Different Protein: Try this chimichurri with chicken, shrimp, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Citrus Touch: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice to the chimichurri for a tangy kick.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili to your spice tolerance—more for heat lovers, less for a milder sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chimichurri sauce can be refrigerated separately for up to a week.
- Reheating: Reheat the steak gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are highly recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried in a pinch—reduce the quantity by half.
2. How do I know when my steak is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
3. Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Chimichurri tastes even better after resting for a few hours, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance.
4. What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad are all excellent choices.
5. Can I grill the steak indoors?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan or a broiler for similar results.
6. Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
Yes, chimichurri freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or ice cube tray for up to 3 months.
7. What’s the best cut of steak for grilling?
Sirloin, ribeye, and flank steak are great options, but any tender cut will work.
8. How do I prevent steak from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and let the steak rest after grilling to retain its juices.
9. Can I substitute red wine vinegar?
You can use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice as an alternative.
10. What’s the origin of chimichurri sauce?
Chimichurri is a traditional Argentinian sauce, commonly served with grilled meats.
Conclusion
Chimichurri Grilled Steak is a delightful fusion of smoky, savory, and zesty flavors that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and easy to master. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish every time!