Chimichurri Steak

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and impresses everyone at the dinner table, this chimichurri steak is just what you need! It’s a delightful combination of tender, juicy beef and a vibrant, fresh sauce that brings everything to life. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or hosting a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this chimichurri steak truly special is the versatility of the chimichurri sauce. It’s not just about seasoning; it’s about creating an experience filled with bright flavors that elevate your meal. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you still want something special.
• Family-friendly appeal: The rich flavors of the steak paired with the zesty chimichurri sauce are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can whip up the chimichurri sauce ahead of time and let it sit to enhance its flavor—perfect for meal prepping!
• Deliciously versatile: Serve it with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even on top of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Impressive presentation: The vibrant green chimichurri drizzled over perfectly sliced steak looks beautiful on any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to the incredible flavor of this chimichurri steak. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some easy variations to customize your chimichurri steak experience:

• Swap the protein: Not in the mood for beef? Try chicken breasts or grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
• Change up the herbs: If parsley isn’t your thing, cilantro works beautifully too! Or mix both for an exciting twist.
• Add some zest: Squeeze in some lime juice for an extra kick and freshness that brightens the entire dish.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, toss in some diced jalapeños into your chimichurri sauce for an exciting spicy layer.

How to Make Chimichurri Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking. Bringing them to room temperature helps them cook evenly, giving you that perfect juicy bite every time.

Step 2: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine fresh parsley, garlic, and oregano. Add olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend everything together. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes—this waiting time helps all those beautiful flavors meld together!

Step 3: Season Your Steaks

Pat your steaks dry with a paper towel; moisture can prevent that lovely sear we want. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pressing the seasoning into the meat ensures every bite is full of flavor.

Step 4: Heat Your Pan

Place a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for about 3-5 minutes until it’s very hot. Add olive oil and swirl to coat evenly—it should shimmer without smoking too much.

Step 5: Sear the Steaks

Carefully place your steaks in that hot pan! Sear without moving them around for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a rich golden-brown crust. Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare; feel free to adjust cooking time based on your preferred doneness.

Step 6: Let Them Rest

Transfer your beautifully seared steaks to a cutting board and loosely cover them with foil. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes so those juices redistribute throughout—this step is crucial for juicy steaks!

Step 7: Slice and Serve

After resting, slice the steaks against the grain into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick). Arrange those gorgeous slices on serving plates and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve immediately with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping. Gather around your table, share stories, and enjoy every delicious bite of this impressive chimichurri steak!

Pro Tips for Making Chimichurri Steak

Cooking the perfect chimichurri steak is all about attention to detail and a few insider tricks. Here are some tips to elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Use room temperature steaks: Allowing the steaks to come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable sear.
• Don’t rush the sear: Searing the steaks without moving them creates a beautiful crust. Patience is key here; a good sear locks in flavors and juices.
• Let it rest: After cooking, resting your steaks allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, leading to a juicier and more flavorful bite.
• Adjust the chimichurri: Feel free to tweak the chimichurri sauce by adding more garlic or adjusting the heat level with extra red pepper flakes. Personalizing this sauce can elevate your meal!
• Slice against the grain: Slicing your steak against the grain makes for more tender bites. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in texture!

How to Serve Chimichurri Steak

Serving chimichurri steak is as fun as cooking it! The vibrant colors of the sauce, combined with perfectly cooked meat, create an inviting presentation. Here are some ideas for serving this delectable dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top adds brightness and a pop of color.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving enhances flavors, adding a refreshing zing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots complement the steak beautifully while adding nutrition.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.
• Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet grilled corn with a sprinkle of salt makes for a delightful summertime side that pairs wonderfully with chimichurri.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit and offer a comforting side that balances out the dish perfectly.

Enjoy pairing these suggestions with your chimichurri steak for an unforgettable meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chimichurri Steak is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the chimichurri sauce ahead of time and store the steaks for a quick, satisfying dinner throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover steak to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place the sliced steak in an airtight container with a layer of chimichurri sauce on top to keep it moist.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw steak in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover with a lid.
• Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave on low power for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful Chimichurri Steak recipe? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use different cuts of meat for Chimichurri Steak?

Absolutely! While ribeye and New York strip are great options, you can also use flank steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness.

How long can I keep chimichurri sauce in the fridge?

Homemade chimichurri sauce can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors may intensify as it sits!

What should I serve with Chimichurri Steak?

Chimichurri Steak pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Is Chimichurri Steak suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time and prepare extra steaks for easy dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chimichurri Steak recipe as much as I do! The tender meat paired with vibrant chimichurri sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!