Chimichurri Steak

Treat yourself to this incredible chimichurri steak! The combo of tender ribeye or New York strip steaks and a vibrant chimichurri sauce is a match made in heaven. Perfect for family dinners, weekend barbecues, or even special occasions, this dish stands out with its bold flavors and simple preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed experience: The chimichurri sauce combines fresh herbs and spices that elevate the taste of the steak.
• Quick and easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it with sides like grilled vegetables or rice for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a flavorful main dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet or grill pan
• Medium bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet or grill pan: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly cooked steaks with a great sear.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing ingredients without making a mess, especially when preparing the chimichurri sauce.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps you slice the steak against the grain easily after cooking, maintaining tenderness.

Ingredients

To create your delicious chimichurri steak, gather the following 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 apple 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: Bring Steaks to Room Temperature

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

Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine:
* 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped

Then add:
* 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
* 2 tbsp apple vinegar
* 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
* 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper*

Stir well to blend the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside for at least 10 minutes (or up to an hour) to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, let it sit at room temperature.

Step 3: Season the Steaks

Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel to remove any surface moisture. This helps create a good sear. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper, pressing the seasoning into the meat.

Step 4: Heat Your Pan

Place a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat. Let it heat up for 3-5 minutes or until very hot. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and swirl the pan to coat it evenly. The oil should shimmer but not smoke excessively.

Step 5: Sear the Steaks

Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes on the first side or until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steaks and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred doneness.

Step 6: Resting Period

Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and loosely cover them with foil. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute the juices.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

After resting, slice the steaks against the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange on a serving plate or individual plates. Drizzle a generous amount of chimichurri sauce over sliced steak.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve immediately with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful chimichurri steak!

How to Serve Chimichurri Steak

Serving chimichurri steak is not just about the main dish; it’s also about enhancing the experience with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery freshness that balances the rich flavors of the steak.
• Tomato and Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad offers a crisp contrast to the tender meat.

Accompany with Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender, these veggies add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the steak.
• Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled, asparagus provides a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the meat.

Serve with Chimichurri Sauce on the Side

• Extra Chimichurri Sauce: Always offer additional chimichurri sauce for dipping. Its vibrant flavors enhance each bite of steak.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Rustic Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover chimichurri sauce. It completes the dining experience.

How to Perfect Chimichurri Steak

To achieve the ultimate chimichurri steak, attention to detail is crucial. Here are some tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality ribeye or New York strip steaks for better flavor and tenderness.
• Let Steaks Come to Room Temperature: Allowing the meat to rest outside the fridge helps it cook more evenly, resulting in juicier steaks.
• Use a Hot Pan or Grill: Ensure your cooking surface is hot enough before adding the steaks. This creates a beautiful sear and locks in juices.
• Rest After Cooking: Letting the steaks rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each slice is tender and easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Steak

Pairing side dishes with your chimichurri steak can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options you can consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the steak beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables offers a nutritious option that balances rich flavors.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a sweet touch that contrasts nicely with savory steak.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brings summer vibes and sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for your dish.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach dressed in lemon juice is both healthy and vibrant, adding color to your plate.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, helping to cut through the richness of the steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chimichurri Steak, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not bringing the steaks to room temperature: Failing to let your steaks sit out for 30-45 minutes can lead to uneven cooking. Always allow your meat to warm up before cooking for best results.
• Skipping the seasoning: If you don’t season your steaks generously with salt and pepper, they can end up bland. Make sure to coat both sides well and press the seasoning into the meat.
• Using cold chimichurri sauce: Serving chimichurri straight from the fridge can dull its flavors. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before serving.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking your steak longer than necessary can result in tough meat. Keep an eye on the time and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into your steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Always allow the steak to rest covered in foil for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chimichurri Steak in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chimichurri Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chimichurri Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil, reheating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds, flipping halfway until heated.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over low heat and add a splash of broth or water. Cover and heat until warmed, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chimichurri Steak that you might find helpful:

What is Chimichurri Steak?

Chimichurri Steak features grilled or seared steak topped with chimichurri sauce, a vibrant herb-based condiment that adds flavor and freshness.

How do I make chimichurri sauce?

To make chimichurri sauce, combine fresh herbs like parsley and oregano with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before using.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Chimichurri Steak?

Yes! While ribeye or New York strip steaks are recommended, you can also use flank steak or sirloin for this recipe. Adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

How spicy is Chimichurri Steak?

The spice level of Chimichurri Steak depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. You can adjust this ingredient according to your preference for heat.

Can I prepare Chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make chimichurri sauce up to one week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Final Thoughts

Chimichurri Steak is not only delicious but also versatile. The tender beef combined with zesty chimichurri makes it a standout dish perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the sauce by adding additional herbs or spices based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!