Introduction to Chimichurri Steak
Chimichurri steak is a delicious way to add a punch of flavor to your dinner table. The bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce pairs beautifully with a tender, juicy steak, making for a simple yet impressive dish that’s ideal for both weeknight meals and dinner parties. This simple steak recipe requires minimal ingredients, and the fresh, tangy sauce elevates the flavors, creating an unforgettable easy steak dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chimichurri Steak
To make a classic chimichurri steak, you’ll need two main components: the steak and the chimichurri sauce.
For the Steak
- 1-2 lb steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work well)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Chimichurri Sauce
Making chimichurri sauce is simple and takes just a few minutes.
- Prepare the herbs: Finely chop the parsley and cilantro. Place them in a medium bowl.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Mix the liquids: Pour the olive oil and red wine vinegar into the bowl. Stir well to combine.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. For a smoother consistency, you can pulse the ingredients in a food processor.
Allow the sauce to sit for at least 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld. While the sauce rests, you can begin preparing the steak.
How to Cook the Steak
There are a couple of different ways to cook your steak, depending on your equipment and preference. Let’s explore two popular methods:
Choosing the Right Steak Cut
For chimichurri steak, cuts like ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak work best. Ribeye offers a rich, buttery flavor, while flank steak is leaner but holds up well to the bold flavors of chimichurri sauce.
Pan-Searing Steak
Pan-searing is a quick and easy way to cook steak indoors.
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot.
- Season the steak: Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the steak: Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the time depending on your desired doneness.
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Grilling Steak
Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the chimichurri sauce.
- Preheat the grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season and oil the steak: Brush the steak with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill the steak: Place the steak on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for your preferred doneness (125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare).
- Rest and slice: Once the steak is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice against the grain.
Flavor Variations for Chimichurri Sauce
Customize your chimichurri sauce with these variations:
- Spicy Chimichurri: Add 1-2 fresh red chilis, finely chopped, for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chimichurri: Replace the red wine vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
- Garlic-Lovers’ Chimichurri: Double the garlic for a more intense flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Sides for Chimichurri Steak
Chimichurri steak is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted potatoes, carrots, or asparagus make for a hearty side.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the steak over rice or quinoa to soak up the extra chimichurri sauce.
Check out Jen Recipes for more side dish ideas that pair well with steak.
Tips for the Best Chimichurri Steak
Here are some tips to ensure your chimichurri steak is packed with flavor:
- Marinate the steak: For more flavor, marinate the steak in a bit of chimichurri sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro are key to a flavorful sauce. Avoid using dried herbs in the chimichurri.
- Adjust the acidity: If you find the chimichurri sauce too tangy, add a little more olive oil to balance it out.
Storing and Reheating Chimichurri Steak Leftovers
Chimichurri sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy on future meals.
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover steak and chimichurri in separate airtight containers. The steak will keep for 3-4 days, and the sauce up to a week.
- Reheat: To reheat the steak, place slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
FAQs About Chimichurri Steak
- Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
Yes, chimichurri sauce freezes well. Store it in ice cube trays and thaw as needed. - What cut of steak is best for chimichurri?
Ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak are popular choices for chimichurri steak. - Can I make chimichurri without cilantro?
Yes, you can omit cilantro and use only parsley if preferred. - How spicy is chimichurri sauce?
Chimichurri is mildly spicy with a little heat from the red pepper flakes, but it’s easy to adjust to your liking. - What other proteins go well with chimichurri?
Chimichurri pairs well with chicken, pork, and shrimp. - How long can chimichurri sauce sit out?
Chimichurri should not be left out for more than 2 hours; refrigerate promptly. - What’s the best way to store chimichurri sauce?
Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. - Can I use dried herbs in chimichurri?
Fresh herbs are best for chimichurri, as they provide a brighter flavor.
Conclusion
A simple chimichurri steak makes for a delicious, flavorful dinner that’s quick to prepare. With fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce and a tender steak, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. For more inspiration and ideas, visit Jen Recipes.