Chimichurri Steak

If you’re looking for a delicious and vibrant dinner that will impress your family or friends, then you absolutely have to try this Chimichurri Steak! The tender, juicy steak paired with the zesty chimichurri sauce makes for a perfect dish that feels special without being overly complicated. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

The best part? This meal is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Not only is it delightful on its own, but it also pairs well with various sides, making it versatile for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good steak, and the chimichurri sauce adds a fun twist that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: The chimichurri sauce can be prepared in advance, letting the flavors develop while you focus on cooking the steak.
• Flavor explosion: The fresh herbs and spices in the chimichurri deliver a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.
• Perfect for gatherings: Impress your guests with this restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this Chimichurri Steak. Each component brings its own unique flavor, creating a well-rounded dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

For the Steak

• 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks, about 1.5 inches thick
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce

• 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 apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Variations

One of the wonderful things about Chimichurri Steak is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a steak lover, try using chicken breast or even grilled vegetables for a refreshing twist.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by adding more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños into your chimichurri sauce.
• Change up the herbs: While parsley and oregano are traditional, feel free to experiment with cilantro or basil for different flavor profiles.
• Make it citrusy: Add some lemon zest or juice to your chimichurri for an extra layer of freshness.

How to Make Chimichurri Steak

Step 1: Bring the Steaks to Room Temperature

Remove your steaks from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking. This step is important because letting them warm up helps them cook evenly, resulting in better texture and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine your chopped parsley, minced garlic, and oregano. Then add in olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well blended. Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes so those flavors can really meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Steaks

Pat your steaks dry using paper towels; this helps ensure they sear nicely. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pressing the seasoning into the meat enhances its flavor as it cooks.

Step 4: Heat Your Pan

Place a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat. Let it heat up for about 3-5 minutes until it’s very hot. Add in your olive oil and swirl it around so that it coats the bottom of the pan. When you see shimmering oil (but no excessive smoking), it’s time to add the steaks!

Step 5: Sear the Steaks

Carefully place your steaks in the hot pan without moving them around. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they form that gorgeous golden-brown crust. Flip them over and cook another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare; adjust accordingly if you prefer another doneness level.

Step 6: Let Them Rest

Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steaks to a cutting board and loosely cover them with foil. Allow them to rest for about 5-10 minutes; this helps redistribute those tasty juices throughout the meat.

Step 7: Slice & Serve

After resting, slice your steaks against the grain into ¼-inch thick pieces. Arrange them on a plate and generously drizzle with that vibrant chimichurri sauce you’ve made!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve immediately alongside extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping! Gather around your table, dig in, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

This Chimichurri Steak is sure to become a go-to recipe you’ll cherish just like I do!

Pro Tips for Making Chimichurri Steak

Cooking a perfect chimichurri steak is all about the details—here are some tips to elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Use room temperature steaks: Allowing your steaks to come to room temperature before cooking ensures they cook more evenly, preventing a cold center and achieving that beautiful sear.
• Let the chimichurri sit: Giving your chimichurri sauce time to meld together enhances the flavors. A rest of at least 10 minutes allows the garlic and herbs to infuse, making each bite burst with taste.
• Get your pan hot!: Searing the steak in a well-heated skillet creates a flavorful crust. A hot pan seals in juices and gives that wonderful texture we all crave.
• Don’t skip the resting period: Resting your steaks after cooking is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute. This step makes every slice juicy and tender instead of dry!
• Slice against the grain: Cutting against the grain of the meat breaks up muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites. This small technique makes a significant difference in texture!

How to Serve Chimichurri Steak

The presentation of your chimichurri steak can turn a simple meal into a feast! Here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only adds color but also complements the herbaceous notes of the chimichurri.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, balancing out the richness of the steak and adding a refreshing flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add vibrant colors and nutrients to your plate while harmonizing beautifully with the steak’s flavor.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chimichurri steak.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside your steak, soaking up any extra chimichurri sauce.
• Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a fun texture and sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory dishes like this chimichurri steak.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends while enjoying an unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chimichurri steak is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover steak to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place the sliced steak in an airtight container and pour some chimichurri sauce over the top to keep it moist.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container.
• The chimichurri sauce can also be frozen in small portions. Use ice cube trays for easy serving sizes.
• Frozen steak and sauce can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen steak overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For best results, reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it juicy.
• Serve with fresh chimichurri sauce for an extra flavor boost!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dish.

What is Chimichurri Steak?

Chimichurri steak refers to beef that is typically grilled or seared and topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil. It’s a flavorful Argentine dish that’s perfect for any meat lover!

Can I use different cuts of beef for Chimichurri Steak?

Absolutely! While ribeye or New York strip steaks work wonderfully, you can use other cuts like flank steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness.

How do I make Chimichurri Sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare chimichurri sauce up to a week in advance. Simply combine all ingredients as listed and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Letting it sit improves the flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this chimichurri steak as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with robust flavors that bring people together. Whether it’s a special occasion or just another weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists on the chimichurri sauce—have fun and enjoy every bite!