Chimichurri Steak Recipe: Bold Flavors and Perfectly Grilled Steak

1. Meta Description

An irresistible chimichurri steak recipe that combines bold flavors with tender steak, perfect for grilling or indoor cooking. Learn how to make this traditional Argentine sauce and serve it with juicy, perfectly cooked steak.

2. Table of Contents

1. Meta Description
2. Table of Contents
3. Introduction
4. Key Ingredients
5. Equipment Needed
6. Preparation Time
7. Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
8. Tips and Tricks
9. Nutritional Information
10. FAQs
11. Storage Instructions
12. Conclusion

3. Introduction

If you’re a fan of grilled meats, chimichurri steak is one dish you need to try. Originating from Argentina, this popular meal is celebrated for its rich, tangy, and herb-infused sauce called chimichurri. This sauce is a refreshing blend of fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and spices, drizzled over a perfectly cooked, juicy steak.

This recipe not only captures the essence of traditional Argentine grilling but also offers versatility, allowing you to adapt it to your personal preferences. Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ or an indoor grill session, the chimichurri steak will become one of your go-to recipes for a hearty, flavorful meal.

As you dive into this recipe, you might find this perfect steak grilling guide helpful to ensure your steak turns out flawless. And if you’re curious about the nutritional benefits of some of the ingredients, check out this comprehensive guide on the health benefits of parsley.

4. Key Ingredients

To make this delicious chimichurri steak, you’ll need a few simple ingredients for both the steak and the sauce:

For the Steak:

• 2 ribeye steaks (approximately 12 oz each)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Substitution Ideas:

• For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or use fresh chilies.
• For a vegetarian option, serve the chimichurri sauce over grilled vegetables, tofu, or even a roasted potato.

5. Equipment Needed

To ensure you cook your steak to perfection, gather the following essential kitchen tools:

• Grill or grill pan
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Tongs for flipping the steak
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

6. Preparation Time

Preparing chimichurri steak doesn’t take long, but it’s important to allocate enough time to ensure everything is cooked and flavored properly:

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

7. Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Follow these steps to make the perfect chimichurri steak.

Pre-Preparation:

1. Remove the steaks from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the fresh parsley, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended. This is your chimichurri sauce.

Cooking the Steak:

3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat.
4. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
5. Grill the steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a different level of doneness.
6. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
   • Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
   • Medium: 145°F (63°C)
   • Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

Post-Preparation:

7. After grilling, allow the steaks to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
8. Serve the steaks topped with a generous spoonful of chimichurri sauce. You can drizzle more sauce on the side for extra flavor.

8. Tips and Tricks

• Perfect Grill Marks: To achieve those iconic grill marks, ensure the grill is fully heated before placing your steak. Don’t press down on the steak during cooking, as it can cause the juices to escape.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chimichurri sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will develop even further, giving you a more robust sauce.
• Variations: Not just for steak! The chimichurri sauce works wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even as a marinade for vegetables.

9. Nutritional Information

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content of this recipe:

• Calories: 550 per serving (1 steak with sauce)
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g

The high protein content makes this dish ideal for anyone looking to increase their intake, and the healthy fats from the olive oil are beneficial for heart health.

10. FAQs

What is chimichurri steak sauce made of?

Chimichurri sauce is a simple blend of fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. It’s a herbaceous, tangy sauce with a slight kick.

What goes with steak and chimichurri?

The tangy flavor of chimichurri pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, and fresh salads. It’s a great accompaniment for anything that complements the bold, zesty sauce.

What does chimichurri taste like?

It has a fresh, herbaceous, and tangy flavor, with hints of garlic and a little spice from the red pepper flakes. The olive oil adds richness, while the vinegar brings a slight acidic balance.

Does chimichurri sauce go bad?

Yes, chimichurri sauce can last in the fridge for about a week when stored in an airtight container. However, the flavors are best within the first few days. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

Why is my chimichurri bitter?

If your chimichurri tastes bitter, it could be due to over-chopping the parsley or using an olive oil that is too strong in flavor. Use a mild olive oil and chop the parsley just until finely cut, but not pulverized.

11. Storage Instructions

Leftover chimichurri sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have leftover steak, wrap it in aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, it’s best to use a grill or pan to maintain the texture of the meat. Avoid microwaving as it can make the steak rubbery.

If you’d like to freeze the sauce, pour it into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

12. Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a weekend BBQ or simply craving a juicy, flavorful steak, this chimichurri steak recipe is a must-try. The combination of perfectly grilled steak with the fresh and zesty chimichurri sauce brings a taste of Argentina right to your table. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect recipe to impress family and friends.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to pair it with a great wine—check out this wine pairing guide for steak for some excellent suggestions!